Across the Caribbean, agriculture is undergoing a quiet revolution. Farmers are adapting to climate change, embracing regenerative practices, rebuilding local food systems, and reclaiming traditional knowledge. But one of the most powerful tools driving this transformation isn’t a new technology or a new crop — it’s storytelling. More specifically: agricultural podcasts.
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These audio platforms are emerging as essential spaces for learning, connection, and advocacy. And right here in the USVI, we now have a standout example leading the way: the Of Seed & Soil Podcast, produced by the VI Good Food Coalition and hosted by the dynamic Sommer Sibilly Brown.

At Que Sera Farms, we believe this kind of storytelling is reshaping the future of Caribbean agriculture.
Of Seed & Soil: A New Voice Rooted in the Virgin Islands.

The Of Seed & Soil Podcast is one of the most exciting new contributions to Caribbean agricultural media. Produced on St. Croix by the VI Good Food Coalition, the podcast explores the deep connections between land, culture, food, and community across the Virgin Islands and the wider region. Hosted by Sommer Sibilly Brown of VI Good Food Coalition, a passionate advocate for food sovereignty and sustainable agriculture, the podcast brings together farmers, chefs, policymakers, historians, and community leaders to discuss the past, present, and future of Caribbean food systems.
Listeners can find the podcast on YouTube, making it accessible to anyone with a smartphone — from farmers in the field to students, policymakers, and diaspora communities. Each episode digs into:

• The realities of farming in the USVI
• The cultural roots of Caribbean food traditions
• The challenges of climate change and food imports
• The movement toward local, sustainable, community-driven agriculture
• The voices and stories of the people who grow our food

One episode even features Shelli Brin of Que Sera Farms, offering insight into the role of women farmers, regenerative practices, and the importance of building resilient local food systems.

Why Podcasts Like Of Seed & Soil Matter for Caribbean Agriculture
1. They democratize agricultural knowledge. Podcasts are accessible, mobile, and easy to integrate into daily life. Farmers can listen while driving, planting, or harvesting. Policymakers can listen between meetings. Students can listen on the bus. This accessibility breaks down barriers and ensures that knowledge flows freely across islands and generations.
2. They amplify local stories that rarely reach mainstream media. Caribbean agriculture is rich with innovation, resilience, and cultural wisdom — but these stories often go untold.
Of Seed & Soil changes that by:

• Highlighting local farmers
• Documenting traditional practices
• Celebrating Caribbean food culture
• Sharing the lived experiences behind our food systems

These stories build pride, visibility, and understanding.
3. They connect the Caribbean to global agricultural movements. From regenerative agriculture to food sovereignty to the UN’s 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer, global conversations are shifting toward equity, sustainability, and resilience. Podcasts help Caribbean farmers and policymakers stay connected to these movements while grounding the conversation in our unique island realities.
4. They influence policy and public perception. When policymakers hear directly from farmers — in their own words, with their own stories — it changes how agricultural issues are understood. Podcasts:

• Humanize the challenges farmers face
• Highlight gaps in support systems
• Showcase the value of local food production
• Inspire investment in agriculture
• Encourage evidence-based decision-making

This is especially important in a region where agriculture is often overshadowed by tourism.
Why Que Sera Farms Supports Agricultural Storytelling. At Que Sera Farms, we believe that agriculture is not just about growing food — it’s about growing community, culture, and connection. Podcasts like Of Seed & Soil:

• Strengthen regional collaboration
• Encourage youth to see agriculture as a viable future
• Preserve the wisdom of elders and tradition bearers
• Celebrate the diversity of Caribbean farming
• Build momentum for a more resilient food system

When we tell our stories, we shape our future. A Call to the Caribbean Agricultural Community. If we want a stronger, more connected, more resilient Caribbean food system, we must invest not only in seeds and soil — but in voices.
Support local agricultural podcasts. Share them. Participate in them. Encourage ministries, cooperatives, and community groups to listen. Because every time a farmer tells their story, the region grows stronger. Checkout their episode here of Seed and Soil Podcast with the interview with Que Sera Farms. Thanks for supporting.
Shelli Brin, Que Sera Farms.
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In 2026, the United Nations shines a global spotlight on a truth Caribbean farmers have always known: women are the quiet engine of our agrifood systems. The International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026) recognizes the essential—but too often invisible—roles women play in food production, trade, community resilience, and rural development.
For us at Que Sera Farms, this moment is more than symbolic. It is a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity for Caribbean governments to enact policies that finally match the scale of women farmers’ contributions.
Why Women Farmers Matter to Caribbean Food Security. Across Latin America and the Caribbean, women sustain agrifood systems in ways that rarely appear in official statistics. They plant, harvest, manage livestock, preserve seeds, process food, and maintain the social networks that keep rural communities functioning. Yet much of this labor remains undervalued and unsupported. Key realities facing women farmers in our region:

• Inequitable access to land, financing, technology, and training limits productivity and economic mobility.
• Women spend 20–42 additional hours per week on unpaid care work, reducing their ability to participate fully in agricultural markets.
• Structural barriers—legal, financial, and cultural—continue to restrict women’s leadership and decision‑making power in agriculture.

These inequalities are not just social issues—they are economic ones. Closing gender gaps in agriculture would strengthen rural economies, improve food security, and build resilience across the Caribbean.
FAO’s 2026 Guidance: What Caribbean Policymakers Can Do Now. The FAO has released tools and recommendations to help governments design gender‑transformative agricultural policies. These are not abstract ideas—they are actionable steps Caribbean nations can implement immediately.
1. Strengthen Women’s Access to Land and Resources. Women farmers in the Caribbean often work smaller plots and face barriers to land ownership. FAO emphasizes that addressing land tenure inequality is foundational to improving productivity and livelihoods.
Policy actions:

• Modernize land titling systems to include joint or individual titles for women.
• Expand grant and low‑interest loan programs specifically for women‑led farms.
• Ensure women have equal access to irrigation, tools, and climate‑resilient technologies.

2. Invest in Training, Technology, and Digital Inclusion. FAO’s new digital platform for rural women in the Caribbean provides training, policy briefs, and tools to support evidence‑based policymaking.
Policy actions:

• Integrate FAO’s digital training resources into national agricultural extension programs.
• Provide subsidized access to mobile technology and internet connectivity for rural women.
• Support women’s participation in climate‑smart agriculture and agri‑tech innovation.

3. Reduce the Unpaid Care Burden. Women in rural areas spend significantly more time on unpaid care work than men, limiting their economic participation.
Policy actions:

• Invest in rural childcare centers and community care cooperatives.
• Expand social protection programs that recognize and offset unpaid labor.
• Support time‑saving infrastructure such as water access, transportation, and energy systems.

4. Promote Women’s Leadership in Agriculture. FAO stresses the importance of women’s leadership in shaping resilient agrifood systems.
Policy actions:

• Ensure women farmers are represented on agricultural boards, cooperatives, and policy councils.
• Fund leadership development programs for rural women.
• Require gender‑balanced participation in government‑funded agricultural initiatives.

5. Build Regional Coordination and Knowledge Sharing. FAO’s regional platform enables governments to share best practices, coordinate policies, and accelerate progress toward gender equality in agriculture.
Policy actions:

• Participate actively in FAO’s regional coordination events.
• Create national working groups dedicated to IYWF 2026 implementation.
• Align national agricultural strategies with FAO’s gender‑transformative frameworks.

Why This Matters for the Caribbean’s Future. Caribbean nations face unique challenges: climate vulnerability, food import dependence, and limited arable land. Women farmers are central to solving all three.
By empowering women, governments can:

• Increase domestic food production
• Strengthen climate resilience
• Reduce rural poverty
• Support sustainable community development

The data is clear: investing in women farmers is one of the highest‑return strategies for national development.

A Message from Que Sera Farms.
At Que Sera Farms, we see firsthand the power, resilience, and innovation of women in agriculture in the Virgin Islands and in the region. We also see the barriers they face—barriers that can and must be dismantled through bold, evidence‑based policy. The International Year of the Woman Farmer is not just a celebration. It is a call to action. Caribbean governments have the opportunity—and responsibility—to lead the world in creating agricultural systems where women farmers are recognized, resourced, and empowered.
The future of Caribbean food security depends on it.

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 In 2026, the world pauses to recognize something farmers have always known: women are at the heart of agriculture. The United Nations has officially designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, shining a global spotlight on the women who grow, process, sell, and sustain our food systems every single day. But for many of us in the Caribbean, this isn’t new. This is reality.
Why This Year Matters. Women make up a significant share of the global agricultural workforce—estimated at around 43%—and in many regions, they produce a substantial portion of the food we eat. Yet despite their impact, women farmers often face:

• Limited access to land ownership
• Less access to financing and equipment
• Barriers to training and agricultural education
• Underrepresentation in leadership and policy decisions

The goal of this international year is not just celebration—it’s correction. It’s about closing these gaps and investing in women as leaders of resilient, climate-smart food systems. Because when women farmers thrive, entire communities eat better, earn more, and become more resilient.
The Role of Women in Agriculture (Especially in the Caribbean). Across the Caribbean, women are not just supporting agriculture—they are redefining it. Women are:

• Seed savers and keepers of traditional knowledge
• Agro-processors turning raw crops into value-added products
• Market vendors and entrepreneurs driving local food economies
• Leaders in regenerative and climate-resilient farming

In small island systems like ours, where food security and import dependence are constant concerns, women are often the bridge between subsistence and sustainability. They are also at the forefront of innovation—experimenting with permaculture, agroforestry, and circular farm models that maximize limited land and resources.
Caribbean Women Leading the Way. While many women lead quietly at the community level, several have shaped agriculture and rural development across the region:

• Dr. Joy St. John (Barbados) – A leader in regional health and food systems resilience, highlighting the link between agriculture, nutrition, and public health.
• Norma Shirley (Jamaica) – A pioneer of farm-to-table Caribbean cuisine, elevating local farmers—many of them women—into the spotlight.
• Grassroots leaders across islands – From Dominica’s women-led cooperatives to Haiti’s market women (“Madam Saras”), to farmers in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Puerto Rico—women are sustaining local food systems daily, often without recognition.

And importantly—many of the most impactful leaders are not on stages or in headlines. They are in fields, kitchens, roadside stands, and community markets.
Women Farmers and the Future of Climate Resilience. Women are consistently recognized as key drivers of:

• Biodiversity preservation
• Soil regeneration
• Sustainable land management

Global research shows that women farmers are often early adopters of sustainable practices that protect ecosystems while feeding communities. In the Caribbean, where climate change is not theoretical but lived—through hurricanes, drought, and rising costs—this leadership is critical.
What This Means for Farms Like Ours. At farms like Que Sera Farms, the “Year of the Woman Farmer” isn’t just something to celebrate—it’s something to build on. In honor of the women farmers in our family lineage, we've named all of our gardens after many women farmers in our family lineage. Moreover, it challenges us to:

• Create more opportunities for women in farm leadership
• Invest in training and mentorship across generations
• Support women-led agricultural businesses and products
• Tell the stories that too often go untold

Because agriculture isn’t just about growing food—it’s about growing people, culture, and community.
A Year to Recognize—and to Act. 2026 is an invitation. An invitation to recognize the women who have always been doing the work. An invitation to invest in their leadership. And an invitation to reshape agriculture into something more inclusive, resilient, and locally rooted. In the Caribbean, we don’t have to imagine what that looks like. We’re already living it. #2026unyearofthewomanfarmer #IYWF2026 

Shelli Brin, Que Sera Farms

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Global instability is no longer rare. It is becoming the norm.
From pandemics to wars to climate disasters, small island communities face disproportionate risk. But vulnerability is not destiny. Preparation is power.
Here are seven practical steps Caribbean communities can take now to reduce risk and increase resilience.

1. Strengthen Local Food Production. The most powerful resilience strategy is local food.
Communities can expand: school gardens, community gardens, backyard farming, small livestock systems and agroforestry zones. When communities grow even a portion of what they consume, they reduce exposure to shipping disruptions and global price spikes. Food grown locally circulates money locally.
2. Invest in Renewable and Decentralized Energy
Heavy reliance on imported oil leaves the region exposed.
Island communities can pursue: solar microgrids, battery storage, solar irrigation systems, solar-powered cold storage. Regional conversations through platforms like Caribbean Renewable Energy Forum show that innovation is already underway. Energy independence reduces vulnerability to global oil shocks.
3. Build Cooperative Purchasing Networks. Small islands often suffer from high freight costs.
Farmers, retailers, and communities can: create cooperative buying groups, share shipping containers, bulk-purchase essential goods, develop local distribution networks, and collective action reduces cost and increases leverage.
4. Expand Regional Caribbean Trade. Too often, Caribbean countries import from faraway nations instead of neighboring islands. Strengthening regional agricultural trade can: reduce shipping distances, improve food freshness, increase economic cooperation, keep wealth circulating within the region, resilience grows when the Caribbean trades more with itself.
5. Create Community Emergency Plans. Communities should establish: Emergency food reserves, seed banks, backup water systems, and local distribution networks. Preparedness reduces panic and stabilizes prices during shocks.
6. Build International Agricultural Partnerships. The Caribbean diaspora and African nations offer opportunities for collaboration in:  Climate-smart agriculture, beekeeping, agro-processing, and youth exchange programs. Strategic partnerships expand knowledge and resilience beyond borders.

The Bigger Vision. 
Preparation is not about isolation — it is about intelligent interdependence.
The Caribbean cannot predict the next global crisis. But we can reduce its impact by investing in: Food sovereignty, Renewable energy, Regional trade, Youth engagement, and Cooperative economics. Resilience is not a reaction. It is a development strategy. The question is not whether global instability will continue. The question is whether Caribbean communities will prepare — or remain vulnerable.
The future belongs to regions that grow what they eat, power what they use, and train the next generation to lead. The Caribbean has the land, the sun, the creativity, and the people. Now is the time to build our food systems for its Caribbean people.
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- Que Sera Farms
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Last June 2025, I had the opportunity to travel to Atlanta, Georgia, to visit Love is Love Farm, and it turned into one of the most inspiring farms I’ve visited so far in my farming journey.

From the moment I arrived, their team welcomed me like family. Love is Love Farm is a certified organic operation with an incredible commitment to community, sustainability, and thoughtful farm design. During my visit, I was able to learn firsthand about their thriving cut-flower markets, explore their cooperative ownership model, and see how intentional investment in infrastructure can transform a farm’s productivity.
Walking through their greenhouses, irrigation systems, market plots, and harvest packing areas opened my eyes to what’s possible with long-term planning. Every system on the farm felt purposeful — built not just for efficiency, but for resilience. As a Caribbean farmer working on smaller, evolving spaces, it gave me a new perspective on scaling responsibly while maintaining the heart of a farm. www.loveislovefarm.com 

One of the most meaningful parts of that experience was how we first connected which is through the SE TOPP Mentorship Program. It's a program that links organic-transitioning producers with certified organic mentors. That connection laid the foundation for a relationship that continues to grow across regions and cultures. Mentorship Program - TOPP.

Bringing the agricultural exchange Home to Que Sera Farms. This week, the exchange came full circle when Joe, one of the owners of Love is Love Farm, visited Que Sera Farms here in St. Thomas. It was powerful to show him our work through Caribbean eyes — from the restoration of historic rock terraces that tell the story of our families, to the food forest installation I did in Hull Bay. Hideaway Farm We toured local farms together, shared conversations with growers in our community, and explored what agriculture looks like on a small island where creativity and resilience are part of everyday survival.
What made the visit especially meaningful was how naturally knowledge flowed in both directions. Joe brought seeds to share, and we exchanged farm merchandise — small gestures that symbolized a much larger idea: agriculture is strongest when it’s rooted in relationships.

Why These Exchanges Matter. Farming can sometimes feel isolating, especially in island communities, but experiences like this remind me that we’re part of a larger movement of growers across the Caribbean and beyond. Learning about cooperative ownership, organic practices, and diversified markets helps shape the vision for Que Sera Farms as we continue to grow.

More than anything, this exchange and mentorship program reaffirmed that agriculture isn’t just about production — it’s about culture, mentorship, and building bridges between communities.
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I’m deeply grateful to the team at Love is Love Farm for their generosity, and excited to continue nurturing this partnership as we both grow stronger, more connected farms.

One of the most powerful messages coming out of CARICOM Agriculture Week 2025 is that no Caribbean island can build a resilient food system alone. From St. Kitts to the Virgin Islands, from Barbados to Belize, our challenges are interconnected—and so are our opportunities.
The future of agriculture in the region depends on collaboration, not competition.
As island nations, we face similar pressures: climate change, heavy dependence on food imports, limited land space, rising production costs, and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. But at the conference, it became clear that the solutions emerging across the Caribbean are innovative, adaptable, and—most importantly—stronger when shared.

Shared Challenges, Shared SolutionsEvery island deals with the same core vulnerabilities: hurricanes, droughts, high shipping costs, and fragile supply chains. Instead of each territory reinventing the wheel, CARICOM Agriculture Week showcased how much we gain when we work together.
Collaboration allows us to:

• Pool resources for research and technology
  
• Adopt best practices from neighboring islands
  
• Accelerate climate-ready farming solutions
  
• Create joint training programs and farmer exchanges
  
• Strengthen regional standards for food production and safety
  

What affects one island’s food system affects all of us. If we face these challenges collectively, the Caribbean becomes stronger, safer, and more self-reliant.

Innovation Thrives When Knowledge Moves Across BordersOne of the standout themes from the conference was the power of knowledge-sharing.
We heard from islands that have already made significant progress—whether through drip irrigation breakthroughs, renewable energy farms, hydroponics systems, or national beekeeping programs—and the message was clear: success multiplies when it is shared.
Farmers and agricultural leaders emphasized that the Caribbean has a wealth of local intelligence within its borders. By making inter-island communication easier and more frequent, we shorten the learning curve for everyone.
Imagine:

• Beekeepers from Dominica training keepers in the Virgin Islands
  
• St. Kitts sharing climate-smart crop varieties with Antigua
  
• Jamaica exchanging processing innovations with St. Lucia
  
• Regional universities co-developing sustainable farming courses
  

This is how a resilient Caribbean food system takes shape—from the ground up, and island by island, learning from one another.

Regional Partnerships Strengthen Our Food SecurityOne of the biggest takeaways from Agriculture Week was the urgency of reducing import dependence. With global markets becoming more unstable, it is no longer practical for small islands to rely on outside suppliers for most of their food.
A regional strategy gives us a different path.
Caribbean collaboration can:

• Boost inter-island trade of fresh produce
  
• Create shared processing hubs, reducing individual costs
  
• Strengthen supply chains for honey, fruits, vegetables, and livestock
  
• Help standardize regulations to make Caribbean-made products more competitive
  
• Position the region as a united agricultural bloc on the global stage
  

The more we invest in working together, the more we shift from import dependence to regional self-reliance.

A New Era of Caribbean AgricultureCARICOM Agriculture Week 2025 highlighted something truly inspiring: the region is ready. Farmers, ministers, researchers, and growers from across the islands are committed to a shared vision—a vibrant, climate-ready, regionally connected agricultural ecosystem.
At Que Sera Farm, we believe this is the moment for the Virgin Islands to lean in. Our food security depends not only on what we grow locally, but on how we integrate with the wider agricultural network around us.
Collaboration isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential.
Because when the Caribbean grows together, we grow stronger.

When we talk about strengthening food security in the Virgin Islands, we often think of crops, livestock, and fisheries. But there’s one essential part of our agriculture system that receives the least investment, despite having one of the greatest impacts on our entire food chain: bees.
At Que Sera Farms, we’ve seen firsthand how vital honeybees are—not only for producing local honey, but for sustaining the very crops that feed our community. Yet across government funding, nonprofit programs, and agricultural development budgets, apiculture consistently ranks at the bottom of the priority list.
It’s time for that to change.

Bees Are Small, but Their Impact Is MassiveBees pollinate a significant portion of the foods we rely on: fruits, vegetables, herbs, and even the forages used to feed livestock. Strengthening our bee population strengthens our entire food system—from the backyard gardener to commercial farmers to the wider community.
Investing in bees isn’t just an agriculture initiative—it’s a food security strategy, an environmental strategy, and an economic development strategy all in one.

Apiculture Is Surprisingly Easy to SupportUnlike many types of agriculture, apiculture doesn’t require massive capital investment to grow. We don’t need tractors, heavy equipment, or acres of irrigated land.
What beekeepers actually need is simple:
Boxes.
More boxes.
And then more boxes again.
Every hive requires well-built, durable wooden boxes—and because the climate here is harsh and bees expand quickly, keepers go through a lot of them. Supporting local beekeeping can be as straightforward as providing materials, offering grants for hive equipment, and investing in training for new keepers.
This is small-scale funding with large-scale impact.

Local Demand for Honey Is Increasing FastVirgin Islanders love local honey—for its flavor, its health benefits, and its island identity. Demand from residents, restaurants, and wellness practitioners continues to rise, far outpacing what local beekeepers currently produce.
More hives mean more honey.
More honey means more local businesses supported.
And more local businesses mean a stronger, more resilient economy.
But this can only happen if the Territory commits to building capacity in apiculture.

A Call to Action for the Virgin IslandsIf we want a food system that is truly sustainable, local, and resilient, we must invest in the pollinators that make it possible. The Virgin Islands has the climate, the biodiversity, and the passionate keepers ready to grow our beekeeping sector—we just need the support.
Funding for hive equipment.
Capacity-building programs.
Recognition of apiculture as a critical pillar of agriculture.
These investments are low-cost, yet high-impact—and they will pay back dividends in food security, environmental health, and economic opportunity.
At Que Sera Farms, we believe that the time to act is now. The future of our food system depends on the smallest workers in our fields—and they’re worth every ounce of investment.

Today at the Caribbean Week of Agriculture (CWA) 2025 in St. Kitts, the CARICOM Youth Advisory Body underscored the urgency of a “Local Agriculture First” policy. The message resonates deeply with us at Que Sera Farms in the US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands: if we want true food security in our region, procurement practices must evolve to support local producers.


For procurement managers, this means recognizing that sourcing from local farms is not the same as sourcing from large importers.

Local procurement often requires:

• Flexible sourcing methods that adjust to seasonal harvests and production cycles.
• Direct relationships with farmers, rather than relying solely on distribution networks.
• A long-term perspective that balances immediate availability with building sustainable supply chains.

By strengthening these linkages, we not only reduce dependency on imported foods but also support the resilience of our communities, create jobs, and keep more economic value circulating within the region.
Que Sera Farms is committed to advancing this vision. As we continue building bridges between farmers and procurement managers, we hope more institutions, retailers, and hospitality partners will embrace policies that prioritize regional agriculture.


Local food security is not just an agricultural issue — it is a regional resilience strategy. Choosing local first strengthens all of us.

These photos were taken from 2 major food-ucational lunches hosted by a local non-profit VI Good Food Coalition from some of their early work in 2016 advocating for Department of Education to procure from local producers. It took educational workshops with students, cafeteria personnel, and decision makers all the way from the top to warehouse personnel. To follow their work, get involved and support, visit their website at Virgin Islands Good Food | USVI Agriculture | Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI. www.goodfoodvi.org 

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In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the routine of grabbing the same groceries week after week. But when you choose a seasonal farm box, you’re not just buying food—you’re investing in your health, your community, and the environment. At Que Sera Farms, our Pop-Up Farmers Market Box brings you fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, thoughtfully curated to feed your family while supporting our island’s farmers.
1. Fresher, Healthier Food - Seasonal produce and farm products are harvested at their peak, which means they’re fresher and more nutrient-rich than items that travel thousands of miles to reach a grocery store. When you open a farm box, you’re getting food that was often harvested just days—or even hours—before.
2.  Support Local Farmers -  Every purchase of a farm box directly supports farmers in your community. Instead of sending your money to big grocery chains, you’re helping local farms thrive, creating jobs, and strengthening the local economy.
3. Discover New Ingredients & Flavors - Seasonal boxes are full of surprises! From unique vegetables to local jams and herbs, you’ll discover new flavors and learn creative ways to cook with what’s in season. It’s like having a new recipe adventure every time you pick up your box.
4. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly - Buying local means reducing the environmental impact of shipping food across long distances. Seasonal farming also works in harmony with the natural cycles of the land, promoting biodiversity and sustainability.
5. Convenient & Cost-Effective - Our farm box bundles together fresh ingredients and even includes a recipe, saving you both time and money. Instead of shopping around for multiple items, you get everything you need for a wholesome meal—ready to go.
6. Strengthen Community Connections - When you purchase a seasonal farm box, you’re joining a community of people who value healthy living and local food. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a connection to the land, the farmers, and your neighbors.


✨ Experience the benefits yourself with our Pop-Up Farmers Market Box!
Pre-order now for pickup on Friday, September 26, between 1 PM – 6 PM.
 Orders have to be in by the cut off date in order to line up all the ingredients.
​Payment must be made to confirm. 
PRE-ORDER NOW until September 17!
Pick-up Location: Scoops and Brew, Crown Bay Marina
📲 Call/Text: +1 (340) 220-0511
📧 Email: [email protected]

As we begin hurricane season, we also mark the significance of the fast approaching the Summer Solctice,  June 22nd. Its a good time for a quick check in on the first half of the year.
So far we have restored and gotten back into production out chicken coop. Our small little flock of 60 are about 2 more months away from their egg laying stage. We're pretty excited to get our own fresh local eggs in the shop again soon.

In February we moved the apiary off the coop and relocated the hives to their 5th new home location on the farm. This new location is our favorite so far. I think they'll do their best in this location. Why so much moving around? Well in a few short years we've experienced, droughts, wax moth inundations, flooding, and accessibility issues. Moving them each time was not by choice but by necessity.

This season, we're switching from our traditional Langsworth boxes to Top bar boxes. We'll be writing a review at the end of this season on how they did with the change.

Swarm season is in full swing and hive removals are on demand. If you have a bee situation, please call us and we can help relocate them for you.

We got new trees in the ground this year: limes, soursops, guava, and bananas.

We welcomed 2 farm kittens into the farm family.
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1. Larger and More NutritiousDuck eggs are significantly larger than chicken eggs and often contain more protein, healthy fats, and vital nutrients like Vitamin B12, selenium, and iron.
2. Perfect for BakingWith their rich, thick yolks and higher fat content, duck eggs create fluffier cakes, creamier custards, and golden pastries. Bakers absolutely love them!
3. Longer Shelf LifeThanks to their thicker shells, duck eggs stay fresh longer, making them ideal for those who like to buy in bulk or use eggs sparingly.
4. Higher Market ValueBecause duck eggs are less common, they often sell for premium prices at markets, restaurants, and among culinary professionals. That makes raising ducks a smart move for small farms and homesteaders.
5. Ideal for Certain DietsSome people with sensitivities to chicken eggs find duck eggs easier to digest, making them a valuable alternative protein source.
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At Que Sera Farms, we believe in helping our community discover the value and joy of local food. From the coop to your kitchen, duck eggs are truly something special!

​Choosing to be a farm intern is choosing growth—in every sense of the word. From the skills you gain to the fresh air and physical movement, farm internships offer benefits that go far beyond the usual work experience.​

​Here are just a few reasons why being a farm intern is a powerful, rewarding opportunity:

1. Hands-On Learning Farm - interns get direct experience with planting, harvesting, animal care, and more. It’s immersive learning at its best.
2. Career Skills - Interns develop transferable skills like time management, project coordination, communication, and leadership—all within the fast-paced rhythm of a working farm.
3. Health & Wellness - Working outdoors helps improve physical health and mental well-being. It’s an active job with fresh air, sunshine, and connection to nature.
4.  Connection to Community  - Farm internships often lead to meaningful relationships—with mentors, fellow interns, and the local community.
5. Resume Builder - Experience in sustainable agriculture is a standout addition to any resume, whether you’re pursuing a career in food systems, environmental studies, education, or entrepreneurship.
6. Sense of Purpose - Being part of a farm that feeds the local community gives a strong sense of purpose. You’re not just doing a job—you’re making a difference.

At Que Sera Farms, our interns are valued members of the team. We provide space to grow, learn, and lead. If you’re ready to get your hands dirty and your heart full, we can’t wait to meet you.

​#QueSeraFarms #FarmInternship #CommunityGrowth

Thinking outside the current food supply system is necessary to achieve a truly sustainable food system because the existing model is built on industrial-scale efficiency, profit maximization, and global supply chains that often undermine environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Here’s why alternative thinking is essential:
1. Environmental Impact

• The current system relies heavily on monoculture farming, which depletes soil health and biodiversity.
  
• Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides contributes to water pollution and ecosystem destruction.
  
• Industrial food production generates high carbon emissions from long-distance transportation, deforestation, and intensive livestock farming.
  

Alternative Thinking: Localized food systems, regenerative agriculture, and circular farming models can restore ecosystems and reduce carbon footprints.
2. Food Security & Resilience

• A centralized food supply chain is fragile—disruptions from climate change, pandemics, or geopolitical conflicts cause shortages and price volatility.
  
• Dependence on a few multinational agribusinesses concentrates power and limits small-scale farmers' survival.
  

Alternative Thinking: Decentralized and regionalized food networks can enhance resilience by diversifying food sources and reducing reliance on vulnerable global supply chains.
3. Health & Nutrition

• Mass-produced food prioritizes yield and shelf life over nutritional value, leading to diets high in processed foods and artificial additives.
  
• Overuse of antibiotics in factory farming contributes to antibiotic resistance in humans.
  

Alternative Thinking: Prioritizing nutrient-dense, locally grown, and minimally processed foods can improve public health.
4. Economic Fairness

• Small farmers and independent food producers struggle against the dominance of large agribusinesses.
  
• Many farmworkers and food industry laborers face low wages and poor working conditions.
  

Alternative Thinking: Fair trade, cooperative farming, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) models empower local farmers and workers while promoting fair wages.
5. Cultural & Regional Adaptation

• Industrial food production often erases local food traditions, replacing them with homogenized, mass-market products.
  
• Indigenous and traditional farming methods that have sustained ecosystems for centuries are overlooked.
  

Alternative Thinking: Supporting agroecology and reviving traditional farming practices can enhance sustainability while preserving cultural food identities.
6. Technology & Innovation

• The current system often resists innovation that doesn’t align with large-scale efficiency (e.g., alternative proteins, vertical farming, and permaculture).
  
• Food waste is rampant due to inefficiencies in distribution and consumption.
  

Alternative Thinking: Investment in food waste reduction, precision agriculture, and urban farming can create a more resource-efficient system.
Final ThoughtTo build a sustainable food system, we need localized, regenerative, fair, and resilient food networks that prioritize people and the planet over corporate profits. Rethinking how food is grown, distributed, and consumed is essential to breaking away from an unsustainable model and fostering a food system that can sustain future generations.
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Here are three practical ways to get involved in grassroots food sufficiency efforts in the Caribbean:


1. Start Small with Home or Community Gardening
2. Support & Buy from Local Farmers
3. Participate in or organize workshops on sustainable agriculture and food security.

What is the difference between Air layering and Grafting?
Air layering and grafting are both plant propagation techniques, but they differ in method, purpose, and application.

​Air Layering

• Definition: A propagation method where a branch or stem of a plant is encouraged to form roots while still attached to the parent plant.
• Process:
  1. A small section of the stem is wounded (either by removing bark or making a cut).
  2. The wound is treated with rooting hormone (optional) and wrapped with moist sphagnum moss or another medium.
  3. The moss is enclosed in plastic to retain moisture.
  4. After roots form (usually weeks to months later), the branch is cut and planted as a new plant.
• Uses: Best for plants that do not root easily from cuttings, such as fruit trees, figs, and rubber plants.
• Advantages: Produces a mature plant faster than cuttings and has a high success rate.
• Disadvantages: Can be labor-intensive and not suitable for large-scale propagation.

Grafting

• Definition: A propagation method where a part of one plant (the scion) is joined onto another plant (the rootstock), allowing them to grow as a single plant.
• Process:
  1. A scion (a piece of stem or bud) is cut from the desired plant.
  2. It is attached to the rootstock using various grafting techniques (e.g., whip-and-tongue, cleft, or bud grafting).
  3. The graft union is secured with tape or wax until the tissues fuse.
• Uses: Common in fruit trees (e.g., apples, citrus), roses, and grapes to control size, improve disease resistance, or maintain specific fruit characteristics.
• Advantages: Allows for combining desirable traits (e.g., a strong root system with a high-yielding scion) and enables propagation of plants that do not grow true from seed.
• Disadvantages: Requires skill, and not all plants are compatible for grafting

In permaculture, pollinator zones refer to areas specifically designed to attract and support pollinators like bees, butterflies, birds, and other insects that are crucial for fertilizing plants. These zones are deliberately planned to provide pollinators with the resources they need to thrive, such as food, water, shelter, and nesting sites.

Here’s what makes a pollinator zone:

Diverse Planting: These zones include a variety of plants that bloom at different times throughout the year. This ensures that pollinators always have something to feed on. Native flowering plants are often preferred, as they are adapted to the local environment and are especially beneficial to local pollinator species.

Nesting Sites: Pollinators need safe places to nest. Providing habitat like wildflower meadows, insect hotels, or bare patches of soil can support pollinators' life cycles.
Water Sources: A small pond, birdbath, or even a shallow dish of water can be essential for pollinators to drink and cool off in hot weather.
Protection from Pesticides: Pollinator zones should be free from chemicals that could harm the beneficial insects, so organic and natural methods of pest control are important.
Habitat Connectivity: These zones can be connected with other plantings or wildlife corridors to ensure pollinators have access to a range of habitats and are not isolated.

Creating these zones in a permaculture design helps maintain healthy ecosystems, supports biodiversity, and can improve the productivity of fruiting and flowering plants by ensuring proper pollination.

Here are some more resources:
How to Build a Pollinator Garden  https://www.fws.gov/story/how-build-pollinator-garden
Top 23 Plants for Pollinators https://homesteadandchill.com/top-23-plants-for-pollinators/
Tips on Building Pollinator Garden https://www.almanac.com/building-pollinator-garden

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Volunteering on farms can be very important for several reasons, depending on the perspective you take—whether personal, agricultural, environmental, or social.
1. Personal Benefits

• Skill Development: Learn farming techniques, animal husbandry, permaculture, and sustainability practices.
• Health & Well-being: Working outdoors with plants and animals can be physically and mentally rewarding.
• Food Awareness: Gain firsthand experience in food production, fostering appreciation for local and organic agriculture.

2. Agricultural & Economic Impact

• Support for Small Farms: Many small farms operate on tight margins and benefit from extra hands.
• Workforce Supplementation: Helps during labor-intensive seasons like planting and harvesting.
• Knowledge Sharing: Volunteers bring new ideas and skills, contributing to innovative practices.

3. Environmental & Sustainability Contributions

• Promotes Sustainable Practices: Many volunteer programs focus on organic, regenerative, and permaculture farming.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Volunteers may help with agroforestry, seed-saving, or soil regeneration efforts.
• Reducing Food Waste: Volunteers can assist in gleaning (harvesting surplus crops to prevent waste).

4. Social & Cultural Impact

• Community Building: Many farms host educational programs, bringing people together around food and nature.
• Global Exchange: Programs like WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) allow volunteers to travel, work, and learn in different cultures.
• Food Security: Supporting local farms strengthens regional food systems, making communities more resilient.

Many farms in the Virgin Islands and Caribbean in general would love some volunteer help around the farm. Email us today! 

Well I have a small advantage in that I already know what I'm looking for. I'm looking for chickens that lay brown eggs and can also serve as a good source of meat. There is no taste difference between white and brown egg. Its really just in the preference of color. What affects taste is the quality of the chicken's diet. One of the best ways I first figured out what kinds were right for me was volunteering on poultry farms. Begin with getting exposure to what the breeds really look like and their characteristics from first shadowing other poultry producers. Its one thing to see them online and in youtube videos but its another to meet them in person. Choosing the right breed is key for their  purpose. My preference is dual-purpose chickens. They are hardy, productive, and great for both egg and meat production.
Key Factors I Consider:

1. Egg Production – Look for breeds that consistently lay large brown eggs. Some lay 1-2 day to 1 every other day.
2. Meat Quality – Dual-purpose birds should have a good balance of meat yield.
3. Temperament – Friendly breeds are easier to handle, especially in backyard settings.
4. Climate Hardiness – Consider breeds that can tolerate your local weather conditions.

Top Dual-Purpose Brown Egg Layers

• Buff Orpington – My favorite, and for good reason! These golden-feathered beauties are gentle, great layers of large brown eggs, and provide a good amount of meat.
• Rhode Island Red – A hardy and productive breed known for excellent egg-laying and good meat quality. A classic that many of us were raised with. Reliable indeed.
• Plymouth Rock (Barred Rock) – Friendly, traditionally cold-hardy birds that do well in the islands,  they lay well and grow to a decent size.
• Australorp – A close cousin to the Orpington, known for record-breaking egg production and solid meat quality.
• Wyandotte – A stunning breed with great cold resistance however a favorite in the island as well, good egg production, and a meaty body.

Final Thoughts Buff Orpingtons are an excellent choice, but don’t hesitate to mix in a few other breeds for variety. A diverse flock can help with flock dynamics, egg production consistency, and overall resilience. Happy homesteading! If interested in volunteering with our chicks and chickens, email me at [email protected].

Here is one of the top hatcheries we order from: www.hooverhatchery.com 
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- Que Sera Farmer

As a US and local island farmer, I see firsthand the immense contributions that migrant workers bring to the agriculture industry. Without their hard work, dedication, and expertise, countless food producers across the country would struggle to function. Migrant workers are not just employees; they are the backbone of our agricultural system, ensuring that food makes its way from the fields to our tables. Here are some key facts that highlight their critical role:

1. They Are the Majority of the Workforce
Did you know that immigrant farmworkers make up about 73% of all agricultural workers in the United States? These individuals work tirelessly, often in harsh conditions, to plant, tend, and harvest the crops we depend on daily. Their presence is not just beneficial; it’s essential to the survival of farms like mine.

2.  An Aging Workforce
The average age of foreign-born agricultural workers is 41.6 years. The average age of the US farmer is in the 70s. This highlights an aging workforce in our sector, and it’s a stark reminder that we need to invest in attracting and retaining new generations of workers to sustain the future of farming.

3. Education and Hard Work
Despite facing challenges, many migrant workers excel with limited resources. Among undocumented agricultural workers, 73% have less than a high school education, yet they contribute immensely to the agricultural output of this country. Their determination and resilience inspire me as a farmer.

4. This is Wasting funds to deport ppl like the way it’s currently happening.
These deportation flights cost about $800,000 with an average of 80 ppl on a plane. 

5. They are not pulling criminals off the streets.
They’re going into schools, churches, workplaces and those commuting to arrest people. 

6. Why This Matters to Farmers Like Me
Migrant workers aren’t just numbers or statistics; they are real people with families, dreams, and aspirations. And in the islands, often escaping harsh conditions in their home countries. As small and big farmers, we depend on their skills, dedication, and work ethic to produce the fruits, vegetables, and other crops that feed our community. They actually show up for the work. And even come back the next day. 

Yet, the challenges they face are significant—from legal uncertainties to harsh working conditions. I believe we owe it to them to advocate for fair treatment, better policies, and a path to stability. Supporting migrant workers isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s necessary for the sustainability of agriculture in this country. 

When we support migrant workers, we’re not just investing in them—we’re investing in the future of agriculture.

#QueSeraFarms #Agriculture #BackboneoftheAgriculture