The Dominican government allocates RD$30 million in non-reimbursable bonds to boost irrigation in dairy cattle, allowing producers to cover up to 70% of the costs for pasture irrigation systems. This measure, led by the Executive Directorate of National Irrigation Technification (TNR), the Agricultural Bank, and Conaleche, seeks to optimize water use and increase agricultural productivity.
Call open until June 29
The initiative of the Fund for the Promotion of Technification of the National Irrigation System (Fotesir) directs resources to projects of up to 100 tareas. Claudio Caamaño Vélez, director of TNR, emphasized that it benefits livestock farmers registered with Conaleche. The deadline expires on June 29, with clear requirements to formalize applications nationwide.
Irrigation in cattle as a pillar of food security
Integrated into the Bagri-Riego program, this action halves installation costs and accelerates executions, according to previous editions. Luis Sánchez Falette, from Conaleche, highlights that irrigation in cattle ensures constant forage, improves milk quality, and sustains rural families. In the Dominican Republic, dairy farming generates thousands of jobs; Central Bank data indicates that the sector contributes 8% to the agricultural GDP, with water challenges exacerbated by recent droughts.
Mixed financing and new agreement
Eddy Montás, sub-administrator of the Agricultural Bank, details 30% bank financing complemented by 70% bonds. During the launch, TNR and Conaleche signed an agreement to expand irrigation in cattle technologies, minimizing environmental impact and expanding pasture areas. Attendees included figures such as Senator Manuel María Rodríguez, Congressman Román de Jesús Vargas, and Eric Rivero from Aproleche.
- Bonds cover 70% of irrigation systems.
- Projects limited to 100 tareas per producer.
- Focus on water efficiency and sustainability.
Historically, programs like Bagri-Riego have technified thousands of hectares since 2020, increasing yields by 40%, according to official Agriculture reports. This injection strengthens Dominican competitiveness in the face of growing dairy imports.
The commitment reaffirms policies for efficient irrigation in cattle, guaranteeing food security and rural development. Interested producers must act before the call closes to take advantage of these key resources in the national agricultural economy.
