Costa Rica’s Farmers Face Crisis as Flooding Destroys Crops

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Severe Flooding in Puntarenas: A Call to Support Our Farmers and Animals

Dear friends,

The Puntarenas region of Costa Rica is currently experiencing unprecedented flooding due to relentless heavy rains. The National Emergency Commission (CNE) has reported that over 1,300 individuals are sheltering in emergency facilities across Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, and Puntarenas provinces.

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Impact on Farming and Livestock

The agricultural sector, a cornerstone of our economy, is facing severe challenges:

• Crop Damage: Floodwaters have inundated vast tracts of farmland, leading to the loss of essential crops such as sugarcane, vegetables, grains, melons, and papayas. In Guanacaste, pastures and sugarcane fields have been transformed into ponds, with approximately 3,200 acres of rice affected.

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• Livestock at Risk: Farm animals are enduring prolonged exposure to wet conditions, which can lead to hypothermia, skin infections, and other health issues. The stress from these conditions also weakens their immune systems, making them more susceptible to diseases.

Short-Term Consequences

• Food Supply Disruptions: The destruction of crops and loss of livestock will likely lead to shortages in local markets, affecting food availability and prices.

• Economic Strain: Farmers are facing immediate financial hardships due to the loss of their livelihoods, impacting their ability to recover and sustain their operations.

Long-Term Implications

• Soil Degradation: Extended flooding can lead to soil erosion and loss of fertility, hindering future agricultural productivity.

• Infrastructure Damage: The destruction of roads and bridges complicates the transportation of goods and services, affecting the broader economy.

How You Can Help

Our community's support is crucial during this challenging time. Here's how you can assist:

• Donate Feed and Supplies: Contribute hay, grains, or other animal feed to support farmers in sustaining their livestock. +506-8783-3230

• Financial Contributions: Monetary donations can help farmers purchase necessary supplies and begin rebuilding their lives. https://www.healingsoulssanctuary.com/donate

• Spread Awareness: Share this message to inform others about the situation and encourage collective action.

We are coordinating the collection and distribution of donations to ensure they reach those in need promptly. Please contact us via WhatsApp at +506 8783 3230 to arrange your contribution.

Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our farmers and their animals during this critical time.

Thank you for your compassion and support.

#SupportPuntarenas #FloodRelief #CommunityStrong

Stay Informed

For more detailed information on the flooding and its impact, you can refer to the following sources:

• Costa Rica’s Farmers Face Crisis as Flooding Destroys Crops

• Costa Rica: Flooding and associated disruptions ongoing across the country as of Nov. 7

• Disaster risk reduction in the livestock sector: the Costa Rican experience

• Costa Rica: Floods DREF Final Report (MDRCR017)

• Costa Rica Losses in the Agricultural Sector

These articles provide comprehensive insights into the current flooding crisis in Puntarenas and its ramifications on agriculture, livestock, and the broader community.