Department of Agriculture TCI

The Department of Agriculture participated in the Shining Star Preparatory School Career Day Expo...

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Extension Officer-Mario Smith, assisting Farm Manager at an Indoor fully automated hydroponic facility.

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Good day everyone.

Tomorrow, the Cadet Community Garden located at the Louis Garland Thomas High School, will host their first School farmers market. This activity will take place on the school compound.

Farmers Market starts at 1:30pm

Sweet Peppers/Bell Peppers, Lettuce, and Basil will be available.

COME EARLY, to support.

Hello again!!
Upcoming Farmers Market this Saturday.
See flyer for details.

Protecting Plant Health to Secure the Future of Food in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands - Tuesday, 12 May 2026: On 12 May, the Turks and Caicos Islands Department of Agriculture joins countries around the world in observing International Plant Health Day under the global theme: “Plant Biosecurity for Food Security.”

Healthy plants are the foundation of healthy communities. In the Turks and Caicos Islands, where the country relies heavily on imported food, protecting plant health is critical to strengthening national food security, safeguarding the environment, and supporting sustainable agriculture.

Since the establishment of the Department of Agriculture, significant emphasis has been placed on protecting the islands from the introduction and spread of plant pests, diseases, and invasive species that threaten local food production and fragile ecosystems.

Plant health is not only about growing crops. It is about protecting the nation’s food supply, economy, biodiversity, and future resilience. Healthy plants lead to healthy harvests, and healthy harvests contribute to a stronger and more secure food system for all residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Department of Agriculture continues to actively monitor and manage threats posed by harmful organisms, including fruit flies of the Tephritidae family and other invasive plant pests that can severely impact local agriculture and trade.

As small island states, the Turks and Caicos Islands are especially vulnerable. A single invasive pest or disease can spread rapidly and cause extensive economic and environmental damage. This is why plant biosecurity — the systems and measures used to prevent harmful organisms from entering or spreading within the islands — remains a national priority.

Protecting plant health is a shared responsibility. Travelers, importers, farmers, landscapers, backyard gardeners, and residents all have an important role to play in preventing the introduction and spread of harmful pests and diseases.

Regional and international partnerships continue to strengthen the country’s biosecurity systems. Through collaboration with organizations such as Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency, United States Department of Agriculture, and Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the Turks and Caicos Islands benefit from technical expertise, training, surveillance support, and early warning systems that enhance the Territory’s ability to detect and respond to plant health threats.

Strong plant health systems directly support food security by:
• Supporting local farmers in producing fresh fruits, vegetables, and root crops;
• Reducing dependence on imported food;
• Protecting native plant species and biodiversity;
• Strengthening sustainable agriculture and tourism.

The Department of Agriculture is encouraging the public to support national plant health efforts by:
• Reporting unusual plant pests or diseases;
• Following all plant import inspection and quarantine requirements;
• Supporting local farmers and locally grown produce;
• Participating in backyard gardening and community food production initiatives;
• Supporting the Farmers Market and local agricultural enterprises.

The message for International Plant Health Day is clear: Healthy Plants Mean a Healthy Nation.

By protecting plant health, the Turks and Caicos Islands protect their people, economy, environment, and future food security.

Contact Information
Department of Agriculture
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Department of Agriculture TCI

Plant Quarantine Officers conducting fruit fly trapping in Providenciales


Plant Quarantine Officer engaging the public at an event


Chief Plant Protection Officer receiving training on fruit fly and ants identification


Plant Quarantine Officer conducting inspection of imported fruits and
vegetables at South Dock, Providenciales

END