The purchase of farmland by foreigners in the Dominican Republic, where ownership and operation of the agricultural property are not only possible but encouraged, is a growing trend. There are many beautiful farms for sale on this Caribbean Island. Emerald green mountain ranges the wind throughout many areas of the country. These highlands support dozens of varieties of tropical palms as well as the most delicate of orchids, bromeliads and other “air-plants”.
In valleys, rivers and streams abound. These waterways are limpid turquoise in the depths and crystal clear in the shallows. A dozen or more varieties fish and plump sweet water shrimp inhabit the island’s inland waters. Some Dominican north coast farms even touch or embrace a section of a river and many of these feature white sand beaches that rival any ocean shore, giving one a lovely choice.
The soil is well-drained and rich, of volcanic origin. A wide variety of crops flourishes on Dominican farms. These include bulk crops like sugarcane and rice in the lowlands and various tubers, bananas, plantains, avocados, citrus, melons and pineapples on hillier farms. Luxurious dark cocoa and world-class Arabica coffees grow at higher altitudes, warmed by the tropical sun and benefiting from abundant rainfall in many areas.
That same rich earth may also support farms dedicated to the raising and nurturing of animals. Beef cattle ranching is widespread in the country as is dairy farming. Other properties specialize in equestrian breeding and training, some producing world renowned Paso Fino horses. Other farm raised animals seen in the Dominican Republic include goats, sheep, poultry of all kinds and pork that is the talk of the Caribbean! At the root of successes in animal husbandry here is the fine soil and the rapid growth of all plants, including the grasses necessary for grazing animals.
An unusual but increasingly popular form of farming today involves the raising of edible fish, such as Tilapia and Swai, or sweet-water shrimp which can grow to half a pound (250g). All that is needed is an area that will hold water and support a means to control its flow. Wells, streams and rivers are constantly fed by rains at high altitudes, ensuring a steady supply of clean water.
With almost 30% of the total land area of the country suitable for crop production and about 17% of the labor force engaged in farming, agriculture remains the primary occupation of the Dominican population. For a person or group of investors considering a farm, the Dominican Republic is a natural choice, being blessed by nature’s abundance and populated by friendly, eager people skilled in most aspects of land use. Select Caribbean Properties is well equipped to assist you in finding your dream farm.
Sabine A Mertes-Urbahn