ELDA was incorporated as a Limited Company on October 8th 2007 with the aim of encouraging farmers in the parishes of St. Mary, Portland and St. Thomas, who in times past raised cattle as an integral part of their farming operation, to be a part of the re-building process of the National Herd. The raising of livestock by farmers with both large and small holdings was one of the main stays of their livelihoods prior to 2002. The importance of having an animal to sell to assist with “back to school” expenses cannot be underestimated. Neither can the importance of having a milk cow as part of balanced nutrition for the family. Livestock in general, and cattle especially, should be part of the rotation within the farming system.

ELDA is in the process of acquiring the beef cattle herd at Green Castle Estate, Robins Bay, St. Mary. This herd consists of pedigreed animals of the Jamaican Red Poll, Jamaican Black Poll and Jamaican Brahman breeds with the aim of providing quality animals available for purchase by its members. Once acquisition has been completed the Association intends to examine the feasibility of being able to offer sheep and goats in addition to cattle to its members.

ELDA will act as a lobby group in discussions with the Government of Jamaica in efforts to improve members’ farming operations with emphasis on livestock, and to this end has become a member of the Beef & Dairy Producers Association of Jamaica. To date ELDA has a membership of 121 farmers from the parishes of St. Mary and Portland. A meeting with RADA in Morant Bay has been held and it is expected that a number of farmers from that Parish will join ELDA in the near future. Membership of Eastern Livestock Development Association Ltd costs $100.00 Ja per year and membership forms are available on request at RADA offices in Port Maria and Port Antonio and from the Secretary, Mr. Trevor Stoddart, 40 Stockholm Park, Highgate PO, St. Mary. For additional information please contact Mr. Robin Crum Ewing, Director at 1 (876) 819-4985.