An entomologist wants the local community to look into the potential of growing vegetables organically.
Dr. Chao Hon Chiu worked for the Northern Marianas College Agricultural Research Program 30 years ago, and helped implement NMC’s cooperative extension service projects funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Chiu said his goal is to promote hydroponics or bio-technology in the CNMI community. “We can have organic products because the island has mild sunshine with no air pollution. Also, we’re a tourist destination so there needs to be quality vegetables here,” he added.
Compared to soil farming, he said hydroponic farming is more productive and is free of pesticides. “So I wish the CNMI community can support this program now so we can get cheaper organic and locally produced fruits and vegetables,” Chiu said.
