The Pig Farmers’ Association is warning the public to brace for smaller hams this year as many of the animals being reared for the Christmas season have been affected by the drought.

President Hanif Brown was a guest on Nationwide This Morning on Wednesday.

The Pig Farmers Association says pig-rearing in concentrated mostly in St Elizabeth, Manchester, Clarendon, Westmoreland and Hanover.

It represents over 600 farmers, but hundreds more are not registered with the association.

President Brown says the hot, dry conditions have been stressful on the animals, resulting in lower reproduction and a decline in feed intake.

He says a growing pig will drink five to seven gallons of water per day, without which they are less able to stay cool and will grow at a slower rate.

Brown says the reduced access to water also impacts sanitisation of pens.

Hanif Brown, president the Pig Farmers’ Association.

Meanwhile, the Pig Farmers’ Association president says the cost of purchasing water is the farmers’ biggest problem.

Hanif Brown, president the Pig Farmers’ Association.

And first vice-president of the Small Ruminants Association of Jamaica, Daren Larmond, says the increased cost of animal feed is another challenge.

Daren Larmond, first vice-president of the Small Ruminants Association of Jamaica.

He was speaking with Tauna Thomas on Nationwide This Morning on Wednesday.