BVI developing water policy to assist farmers

The British Virgin Islands is actively working on a new water policy designed to offer crucial assistance and subsidies to local farmers. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley announced that the policy, expected to be finalized soon, will clarify the types of support available to farmers concerning water access and management.

“

The Ministry of the Premier’s Office should produce for us very soon a water policy for our farmers that will help to clarify what types of assistance and subsidies our farmers get as it pertains to water.

This initiative comes as the territory grapples with persistent water shortages that have significantly affected the agriculture sector. Wheatley stated that the Ministry of the Premier's Office is nearing completion of the policy, which is intended to provide a framework for addressing these ongoing challenges.

In parallel, the government is pushing forward with plans to enhance water storage capacity at the Paraquita Bay Agricultural Station. The Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) is overseeing the construction of reservoirs, with the project anticipated to be completed next year. This development is part of a multi-year effort to establish a reliable water supply for farmers, who have frequently complained about inconsistent availability and high costs.

“

I got a good update on the reservoirs we’re seeking to build at the Paraquita Bay Station, an agricultural station, which will provide water for our farmers.

Further bolstering water security, the RDA signed a contract in May 2025 for the design and construction management of a Farmers' Reservoir, including necessary infrastructure for irrigation and livestock. Additionally, five farmers recently received 1,000-gallon water tanks through an Organization of Eastern Caribbean States-supported program focused on rainwater harvesting and livestock water reserves. The government acknowledges the current difficulties farmers face and is providing interim water supplies while the larger reservoir project progresses.

“

In the meantime, we’re doing our best to provide water to our farmers.