Land Management with Phoenix Enterprises in Guyana

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Guyana possesses immense potential for agricultural and economic expansion within and beyond its coast, according to Farmer-to-Farmer Volunteer Dr. Walter J Zimmerman. During Summer 2019, Dr. Zimmerman provided his expertise in soil fertility, soil conservation, and climate-smart agriculture to help Phoenix Enterprises develop more efficient land management practices in the country. Located on a 10-acre farm outside of Georgetown, Guyana, Phoenix Enterprises is a developing micro-enterprise for bottled coconut water.
Dr. Zimmerman provided recommendations for the company after performing an observational survey and learning about on-site plans and methodologies. Additionally, he led two workshops, the first with a group of local farmers and the second with agronomists at the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI).


Agriculture in Guyana is one of the pre-eminent sectors of the economy, accounting for about 1/3 of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 30% of overall employment. Unfortunately, climate change and the volatility of international commodity prices create challenges for Guyana’s agriculture sector. However, with abundant natural resources and proximity to import-dependent Caribbean markets, Dr. Zimmerman believes Guyana has a great potential to expand its agriculture export offerings. 

He recommended that Phoenix Enterprises seek to optimize and diversify their land management practices topics, including thermophilic compost regimes, biochar, vermicomposting, crop rotation, trap crops, and compost tea. Dr. Zimmerman was thankful for his time in Guyana, as each assignment he completes around the world expands his vision and ability to apply his professional expertise to his next assignment.

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