Dylan Chong Wins Young Champion Farmer Award
Young Champion Farmer: Dylan Chong's Triumph at Montpelier Show
In a young farmer's life there is nothing more prestigious than winning the award for "Young Champion Farmer" at the
Montpelier Agricultural Show held in St James. This event was held on April 1st (Easter Monday) and it's been held every Easter Monday since 1987.
This event is a chance for dedicated farmers and all the folks involved in the crucial agricultural field to shine a spotlight on what they've accomplished and how they've helped the sector grow. Dylan Chong emerged as the winner among a group of farmers from St James, highlighting the progress of young people who've played a part in pushing the sector forward.
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Innovative Farming Leads Croydon In The Mountains to Victory
Chong explained that his farm, Croydon In The Mountains in Catadupa, St. James, won thanks to its high yields and the use of innovative techniques and advanced technologies.
“We won not just for scale but our diverse agroforestry, which is using the method of forestry and implementing agricultural techniques around that – a form of permaculture,” he explained.
Chong embraces the Birthplace of a National Hero
Croydon in the Mountains holds the distinction of being the hometown of Jamaican revolutionary and National Hero, Sam Sharpe. Just like
Sharpe, Chong brings a revolutionary spirit to his farm experience.
He offers eco-tourism, agro-tourism, and farm-to-table experiences on a private forest reserve. It's no wonder that Croydon In The Mountains is currently ranked as the
number one farm tour in Jamaica on Trip Advisor.
Sustainable Farming Revolution: Chong's Eco-Friendly Practices
Chong describes his farming method as "the most sustainable and environmentally friendly approach", focusing on organic practices. "We're not just farming; we're fostering a culture of eco-stewardship," he says.
This includes widespread
tree planting, adopting organic practices, growing food sustainably, and ensuring farming remains affordable. He believes adopting these methods island-wide could significantly boost the GDP.
He also highlights their 'One, One, One' initiative, launched in January, which aims to plant a million trees across the island annually, marking a major cultural shift towards environmental consciousness.
Dylan Chong Aims for All-Island Champion Farmer Title 2024
As a 2022 member of the
Honey Bun Foundation’s advisory committee, Dylan Chong adopted several effective techniques. A key strategy he continues to use is maintaining a team of expert advisors to help revolutionize farming practices. This approach enhances his farm's productivity and innovation.
Come the Denbigh Agricultural Show in August 2024, where Chong will compete against other parish champions, vying for the prestigious title of ‘All-Island Champion Farmer’.
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