Tableland Pineapple Fields
Princes Town
The Tableland Pineapple Fields are located in the village of Tableland within the Princes Town region of Trinidad and Tobago. This area is renowned for its extensive pineapple cultivation, particularly the "Tableland hybrid," a crossbreed between Smooth Cayenne and Black Antigua varieties. Historically, the region's fertile land supported crops such as cocoa, coffee, and sugarcane, but farmers shifted to pineapples due to higher profitability. By the early 2000s, Tableland had become a significant center for pineapple production, with hundreds of hectares dedicated to the crop. The pineapple industry here is supported by local farmers organized under the Tableland Pineapple Farmers Association. However, intensive farming practices, including cultivation on steep slopes and clearing of cocoa fields, have raised environmental concerns such as soil erosion and sustainability challenges. The area has experienced landslides during the rainy season, affecting infrastructure and agriculture. Despite these challenges, Tableland remains a vital agricultural hub, contributing notably to Trinidad's pineapple industry and cultural identity.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Tableland Pineapple Fields is during the harvest season when the fruit is ripe and abundant. Visitors interested in agriculture should consider arranging guided tours through local farmers or the Tableland Pineapple Farmers Association to gain insight into pineapple cultivation and the hybrid varieties grown. Due to the rural setting, it is advisable to plan transportation ahead and check local conditions, especially in the rainy season when landslides may affect road access. While there are no formal ticketing systems, supporting local vendors and farmers directly is encouraged. Visitors should also be mindful of environmental conservation efforts in the area.
Interesting facts
- •Tableland hosts many of the pineapple farms in Victoria County, Trinidad.
- •The "Tableland hybrid" pineapple is a cross between the Smooth Cayenne and Black Antigua varieties.
- •In 2017, a pineapple farm in Tableland was featured on an episode of Sesame Street.
- •Moose Bhagat Mandir in Tableland is the oldest Hindu temple in Trinidad and the second oldest in the Western Hemisphere.
History
Tableland has a rich agricultural history, initially cultivating cocoa, coffee, and sugarcane.
Over time, farmers transitioned to pineapple cultivation, attracted by its profitability.
By 1994, around 60 hectares in Trinidad were dedicated to pineapples, growing to 250 hectares in Tableland by 2000.
This expansion continued into the 2010s, solidifying Tableland as a key pineapple-producing region.
The shift to pineapple farming led to environmental challenges, including soil erosion and landslides, prompting efforts to educate farmers on sustainable practices.
Tableland is also historically notable for the Moose Bhagat Mandir, the second oldest Hindu temple in the Western Hemisphere, built in 1904, reflecting the area's cultural heritage.
Contact
Phone: (868) 288-5631