The Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) has increased spraying for paddy bugs in the Essequibo region following a new wave of infestation, according to General Manager Nizam Hassan.
The GRDB, Hassan said, has expanded its spraying activities to target breeding grounds. However, he advised that once the farmers discover the bugs on their farm they should also engage in spraying. The GRDB head acknowledged that there is an industry-wide paddy bug infestation, especially in Region Two’s farmlands, but insisted that “the situation is not alarming.” He further advised farmers to begin spraying pesticide during the flowering stage since that is when the bugs are likely to invade the farmlands.
