We’ve just completed the first week of our agricultural
mission here in the Dominican Republic. So far we have worked mostly with greenhouse
bell pepper producers. These growers export most of their product and have a
variety of different problems – primarily with insects and diseases. We have
advised on the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices and the safe
use of chemical pesticides. We are learning much about our global food chain.
Some of it good – some not…
Our visits have taken us all over the eastern part of the DR
and we have driven many miles (or should I say kilometers). Our DR contact,
Calvin, is our driver and interpreter. Driving with Calvin is an EXPERIENCE!!!
I’m including this short video to give you an idea of what it’s like. Please note that the video is in “real time” not speeded up.
After this experience Sharon has vowed never to criticize my driving again.
We’ll see.
This weekend we are taking a break in the beach community of
Boca Chica, just outside of Santa Domingo. The water is beautiful and our
little hotel (El Zapata) is very nice. There aren’t very many US tourists here
so we stick out like a sore thumb. While enjoying a cold cerveza, a group of
musicians entertained us – until we were out of pesos.
The DR is a very interesting place with lots of life. The
people are friendly and we making lots of new friends. Trips like this always
remind us that people are pretty much the same no matter where you go.
