Jamaica Dairy Development Board

1 Team, 1 Mission, 1 Dairy Board.
Empowering Farmers, Nourishing Jamaica.

The JDDB's mission is simple: Empowering Farmers, and Nourishing Jamaica. We provide value to the agricultural industry through all our programmes and initiatives. From genetic improvement and pasture management to capacity building and stakeholder management. We don’t just monitor the industry; we drive it forward. Real work. Real results.

In the dairy business, your pasture is your most valuable financial asset. At the JDDB, we are helping farmers turn "Grass to Cash", and this is how we build a sustainable, profitable, and resilient dairy industry for Jamaica 🌾🇯🇲🌾

This week, the Jamaica Dairy Development Board was proud to facilitate the YAAD TICKS team in their critical research on tick species and tick-borne diseases across the island.
​Led by Dr. Simone Sandiford (UWI Mona), the team conducted a comprehensive tour of several Jamaican farms to collect data on local tick populations and potential pathogens. A highlight of the tour included a hands-on demonstration by Dr. Saravanan Thangamani (SUNY Upstate Medical University), who showed local farmers, students, and stakeholders how to conduct active surveillance and proper tick collection from animals such as cows, goats, dogs and even donkeys.
​Understanding tick-borne threats is a huge step in protecting our nation's herds and ensuring a resilient agricultural sector.
​For more information on the programme, visit: www.yaadticks.org

Today in Luana, St. Elizabeth, the JDDB joined forces with the St. Elizabeth Public Health Dept. for a viral Training Session. Our mission: creating awareness around threats to food safety and the best practices for hygienic milking operations.
​A huge thank you to our presenters, Dr. Sydonnie Thompson Gyles, Mrs. Deborah Lindo-Black, and our own Mrs. Chantal McFarlane-Forbes, for providing the technical guidance needed to maintain the highest standards of milk production. Good quality milk is better for the consumer and better for Jamaica's dairy industry 🐄🥛🇯🇲

Data provides the certainty needed to make informed decisions for our farmers. It's about turning raw numbers into action, because data collection is the best way to optimize our operations to better empower our farmers to nourish Jamaica.

Big ears and even bigger production. Known as the "Jersey" of the goat world, the AnglNubian produces some of the richest, creamiest milk in the industry. But don’t let the dairy stats fool you—their large frame and rapid growth make them a top-tier dual-purpose breed for meat production too. The perfect fit for the tropical heat and a favorite for Jamaican goat dairy farmers. Is the Anglo Nubian part of your herd yet? 🇯🇲🥛🐐

The JDDB, in partnership with RADA Clarendon, hosted today an intensive training session on Pasture Establishment, Management, and Irrigation.
​The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Ms. Petagaye Watson (RADA Livestock Officer), followed by a comprehensive technical presentation by our very own Mr. Peter Myers (JDDB Field Officer). To bring the theory to life, we moved into the field for a live demonstration led by Mr. Kervin Riley (RADA Extension Officer), who shared invaluable insights on efficient irrigation techniques. ​We are proud to work alongside RADA to ensure our farmers have the tools and knowledge to thrive

Grazing on open pasture isn't just about food; it’s about animal welfare. Natural grazing allows for better physical health and lower stress levels for local breeds like the Jamaica Hope. Low-stress cows are more productive and healthier, leading to a more resilient dairy sector for all of us 🇯🇲🐄

In line with the national recovery efforts outlined in Minister Floyd Green's Media Briefing on January 20th, the JDDB has been actively supporting our dairy farmers as they rebuild after Hurricane Melissa. We are on the ground providing the technical support and resources needed to ensure our farmers can plant, produce, and prosper once again. 🇯🇲🥛🐄

The Jamaica Dairy Development Board wishes the entire Jamaican community a very Merry Christmas. We are grateful for your continued support in strengthening our local dairy industry. May your holidays be filled with warmth, family, and the wholesome goodness of local dairy. 🎄🇯🇲 🥛🐄