THE MODERN FARMER: THE JOURNEY OF PLANTING "GRASS" IN PUERTO RICO

On the cover of this issue of Sens Culture, we've reinterpreted Ramón Frade's iconic painting "Our Daily Bread." Now, the jíbaro, an enduring symbol of dignity, resilience, and perseverance, holds not a bunch of plantains, but cannabis flowers. This image illustrates the evolution of our agricultural landscape and celebrates the unwavering spirit of the modern farmer in Puerto Rico.

Growing cannabis on the island is a challenging journey, where each cultivated seed is a testament to effort and hope. However, farmers face significant difficulties, starting with the high cost of electricity supplied by Luma. Electricity is vital for indoor cultivation, and its exorbitant price jeopardizes the economic viability of their operations.

The daily challenges these farmers face extend far beyond energy. Bureaucratic rigidity imposes a heavy burden: insurance, licenses, and permits add to a process that should be more accessible. It's ironic that the cannabis industry, with its therapeutic and economic potential, is trapped in a regulatory framework that seems better suited to pharmaceutical giants. These companies have the resources to weather any financial storm, while the local farmer struggles to stay afloat.

Selling flowers at a fair price is another challenge. Early growers erred by lowering prices, thinking that volume would make up the difference. However, high costs and low rates have shown that this strategy is not sustainable. Dispensaries must prioritize quality over quantity and understand that sustaining the industry requires a commitment to fair prices that reflect the true cost of cultivation.

To alleviate the burden, it is crucial to rethink our approach. Raising prices may be one solution, but we must also advocate for policies that support farmers. Reductions in sales tax for local agricultural products, incentives for the use of renewable energy, and a more accessible licensing process are essential steps toward a more sustainable future.

In this struggle for dignity and viability, the modern farmer in Puerto Rico remains a symbol of perseverance. Like Frade's jíbaro, each of these growers carries in their hands not only a harvest, but the promise of a future where the cannabis industry flourishes with justice and equity. It is time for us all to work together to make this promise a reality.

Mr. Sens

@mrsenspr