Vetiver Systems Training Empowers North Leeward Farmers with UNDP GEF Small Grants Support

In recent years, Hand2Earth has been working tirelessly to promote sustainable farming practices in North Leeward through their 4th workshop for farmers. Focusing on Vetiver Systems Technology, the training took place from March 18th-22nd in Rose Bank, attended by farmers from various villages in the area including Petite Bordel, Troumaca, Rose Hall, and Spring Village.

Sponsored by the GEF Small Grants Programme, 21 farmers received hands-on training on the theory, science, and practical application of Vetiver Systems Technology. During the workshop, participants gained practical experience in various aspects of the technology such as land contouring, plant preparation, planting and soil microbiology. Additionally, soil samples from their farms were tested to determine pH levels and soil composition.

Hand2Earth has been working with funding from the GEF Small Grants Programme to establish four vetiver nurseries in Belmont, Troumaca Bottom and Bottom Village. Since the initiation of Hand2Earth’s Farmland Restoration project in 2022 a total of 55 farmers from North Leeward have received training in Vetiver Systems Technology. The vetiver plant is known for its effectiveness in erosion control and groundwater retention leading to improved crop yield. Participants receive ongoing technical assistance as well as plants and vegetable seeds to implement vetiver systems on their farms.

The importance of this project cannot be overstated according to Ms Vonnie Roudette, Hand2Earth’s Vetiver Systems Trainer. She highlights the historical significance of vetiver hedgerows planted a century ago for soil conservation which have since been destroyed resulting in widespread land erosion and loss of topsoil. With support from UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme this project continues to focus on developing a Vetiver Heritage Educational Site establishing farm sites providing vetiver craft training workshops conducting community education activities while also supporting farmers with ongoing technical assistance plants tools vegetable seeds