The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) will not be promoting the use of monocrotophos to combat the infestation of Red Palm Mite presently affecting coconut farmers in Region Two.
This is according to Director of NAREI Dr Oudho Homenauth, who explained to Stabroek News that the chemical’s classification as a persistent organic pollutant that is extremely toxic to birds and humans renders it too hazardous for widespread use. “We can’t promote it,” he said, adding, “There are other safer chemicals that can be used.”
Homenauth was responding to reports that farmers in the Pomeroon area had called for the importation of the