Pest control measures trigger temporary crop restrictions in Dominican Republic

To safeguard vital crops from pest infestations, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Agriculture has issued a temporary planting ban in the Sábana Yegua region of Azua. Effective from July 1 to September 30, the measure targets whitefly and thrips — pests that pose serious threats to crops such as tomatoes, onions, beans, and other key vegetables. The action falls under the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme and is formalised through resolution RES-MARD-2024-9.

The restriction applies to crops known to attract these pests, including eggplant, melon, cucumber, watermelon, okra, various chili peppers, pumpkin, and cotton. Affected communities include Estebanía, Arroyo Colorado, Las Yayas, and Pueblo Viejo. The objective is to disrupt the insects’ reproductive cycle and limit further agricultural losses.

According to Rosa Lazala, Director of the Department of Plant Health, last year’s green bean harvest saw notable success under similar pest control efforts — reinforcing confidence in this preventive strategy.

source: dominicantoday.com

photo: royalbrinkman.com