The Committee on Economic Development and Agriculture of the Virgin Islands Legislature convened on April 16, 2025, to address pressing issues within the agricultural sector. The meeting focused on strategies to enhance the industry's resilience and efficiency, particularly through cooperative business models.

The discussion began with an assessment of the challenges facing local farmers. Senators were informed that adopting a cooperative business model could significantly alleviate these issues. This approach encourages farmers to pool resources, enabling them to make bulk purchases of essential agricultural inputs such as livestock feed, fertilizers, and irrigation supplies. By collaborating, farmers can reduce individual costs and ensure timely access to necessary materials.

Further recommendations included the collective acquisition of machinery, such as tractors, to streamline land preparation services. This strategy is expected to transform the agricultural landscape, fostering growth and development within the sector.

In support of these initiatives, the Department of Agriculture announced plans to purchase a 40-foot trailer for each island. These trailers will serve as storage for bulk supplies acquired by farmers, with the department also offering land space for their placement. A successful example was highlighted from a group on Saint Thomas, where members have already begun to collectively purchase livestock feed, resulting in cost savings and improved quality of supplies.

The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on the potential of cooperative efforts to revolutionize the agricultural industry in the Virgin Islands, setting the stage for future collaboration and resource sharing among farmers.