PRESS RELEASE

The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) is presently conducting a workshop in "Weeds of Quarantine Importance". Mr. Benny Garcia, a regional expert in the field, is carrying out the training, which started on Tuesday and will end on Friday, at Central Farm.

With the increase in foreign trade, the risk for the introduction of exotic weeds is growing. Such introduction could have serious effects to Belize's agriculture. For example, it could increase the production cost of crops or have a lethal effect to our livestock.

The main goal of the workshop is therefore to train quarantine inspectors to conduct proper inspection at the ports of entry and to be able to intercept weed seeds, confiscate them and follow destruction procedures, thus protecting Belize's agricultural health.

The training is part of a comprehensive training package offered to BAHA personnel to improve their skills, efficiency and professional service to the public.

September 1, 2003

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