Philipsburg- There are several individuals and farmers on the island who have been doing kitchen gardening for a while for a variety of reasons, from providing produce for their restaurant too using the produce to cook for their families.
Today, Commissioner Maria Buncamper-Molanus urges the community of St. Maarten to start a Kitchen Garden.
"I would like to encourage the community of St. Maarten to start Kitchen Gardens for a variety of reasons, namely:
1) As a way of reducing the present and future cost of living, by growing your own vegetables, herbs, fruits;
2) As a way of feeding and/or contributing to your extended family;
3) As a way of supplying a grocer or a restaurant with produce from your Kitchen Garden, thereby supplementing your income;
4) As a way of relaxing and enjoying nature;
5) As a way of being Environmental friendly;
6) As a way of eating healthier."
Commissioner Buncamper-Molanus said that by engaging in these activities, many people are able to spend less on groceries. People can also earn extra income by selling their produce from their Kitchen Garden.
"I would like the idea of Kitchen Gardens to spread amongst the population, and hopefully will become a way of life for many St. Maarteners," Commissioner Maria Buncamper-Molanus said. "There are many benefits to having a garden."
The Department of Economic Policy and Research is kicking off the initiative of the Kitchen Garden Project, a community-focused program that encourages the public to engage in home base agriculture.
The philosophy is that a small garden can provide a family with fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits, which can be used daily in the preparation of meals. In addition, flowers can be used to beautify the home and island, which should be encouraged.
There are several events, which the DEPR will participate in regarding the kitchen garden.
The Government Information Service will air a Special program on the topic of Kitchen Garden on October 24 2008.
