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May is CNMI Agricultural Month
A proclamation calling for stronger commitment to support farmers in the CNMI was signed by Gov. Eloy S. Inos before farmers, vendors, farmers, and agriculture advocates on Saturday at the Civic Center in Susupe.
Inos also proclaimed May 24, 2014, as Saipan Agricultural Fair Day.
“We urge all CNMI residents to support the efforts of farmers and ranchers in promoting our traditional and cultural agricultural practices throughout the year,” he said.
Gov. Eloy S. Inos, Lt. Gov. Jude U. Hofschneider, Saipan and Northern Islands Municipal Council chair Ramon B. Camacho, and Division of Agriculture Manuel Tenorio, front row, second from left, pose with farmers and community remembers marking May as Agricultural Month and the 31st Agricultural Fair. (Jayson Camacho)
Inos told Saipan Tribune that he supports local farmers and visits the Sabalu Market in Susupe every Saturday.
“I grew up in a farm and I love farming. It’s a very rewarding experience and when you plant something from the ground up and you see it bear fruit, it becomes a very rewarding experience,” Inos said. “You could you use it for your own or sell it.”
Manuel A. Tenorio, director of the Division of Agriculture of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources, said the proclamation also seeks to recognize the hard work of farmers.
“Farmers are growing things and raising livestock and recognizing their hard work is part of this month’s celebration,” said Tenorio.
Saipan and Northern Islands Municipal Council chair Ramon B. Camacho said the weeklong celebration leads up to the Agricultural Fair.
“This is going to be the 31st anniversary and this will continue to help and promote healthy living. We need to expand this and that we don’t continue to rely on importation and rely on our resources,” Camacho said.
The monthlong celebration also supports local farms, helps keep these farms in the community, and ensures that the next generation has access to “nourishing, flavorful, and abundant food.”
The theme for this year’s agricultural month is “Support Our Farmers/’Tepengi School Leemaat/ Supotta I Lancheru-ta Siha.”
“Let us be that community that is keeping local businesses thriving by doing business locally,” Camacho said.
