IN 1988, Primary Industries Minister Viliame Gonelevu requested officers at Dobuilevu Research Station in Ra to increase the production of yams for use as planting materials.
According to an article published by this newspaper on July 8 that year, the minister visited the station with his permanent secretary Robin Yarrow.
The 50-hectare station, which was established in 1936, conducted field trials on cocoa, rice and root crops, and provided services to farmers with technical information and planting material.
On trial at the station were seven cocoa hybrids for comparison with amelonado. The objective was to find a quick-bearing variety, resistant to canker disease and having high quality beans.
However, the trial showed amelonado was still superior in terms of yield, black pod loss and quality beans because it was a recommended variety for farmers.
The station had produced 13 tonnes of yams the previous year.
Mr Gonelevu suggested that the station conduct regular field days for extension workers, farmers and others in the agricultural sector.
