The Ministry of Public Works and Environment has awarded agricultural land leases to ten Bermudian farmers, placing more than seven acres of previously underutilised Government-owned arable land into active food production.
The leases represent a meaningful expansion of local farming activity and reflect the Government’s commitment to strengthening Bermuda’s food security and supporting sustainable agriculture.
Among the parcels leased are several plots at Old Military Road in St George’s. Last week, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon Jaché Adams, JP, MP, visited the site to meet with farmers Brian Robinson, John Gibbons and Kenneth ‘Neil’ Paynter Jr., who are among those cultivating the land.
Minister Adams said: “It was encouraging to meet with these farmers to see first-hand how these plots are being put to productive use. Their work reflects the dedication and commitment that many Bermudian farmers bring to strengthening our local food supply.”
The Ministry has leased the lands to the farmers under multi-year agreements to encourage long-term investment in local agriculture.
The leases include approximately 4.03 acres at the former Almeida Farm on Barry Road in St George’s, 1.6 acres at 33 Barry Road, and additional plots at Old Military Road totalling more than an acre. In St David’s, a parcel of approximately 0.695 acres has also been leased for agricultural use.
The Minister said the initiative reflects the Government’s determination to ensure that publicly owned agricultural land is actively contributing to the Island’s food system.
Minister Adams noted: “Land that was once underutilised is now being placed in the hands of Bermudian farmers who are committed to producing food for our community. That is exactly the outcome we want to see.”
He added: “Bermuda imports the majority of what we eat. Expanding local farming capacity is an important part of building resilience and improving our food security.
“Giving access to Government-owned arable land to farmers helps to create the conditions for greater local production.
“These leases represent a practical step toward a more sustainable Bermuda. When we support local farmers and make better use of available land, we reduce reliance on imports and create opportunities for greater self-sufficiency.”
The Ministry noted that the leasing programme is part of broader efforts to support agriculture, improve the use of public assets and encourage sustainable land management across the Island.