"shop local'' and support Island producers.

And it is believed fed-up farmers are having to dump produce like cabbages because they cannot find buyers.

But now Bermuda's tiny agricultural sector is set to dig its heels in to try and force a change in attitude -- and a coordinated agricultural policy from Government.

It is understood the Bermuda Farmers' Association, which represents most of the Island's 20-plus farmers, wants action to protect their livelihood.

Bermuda Farmers' Association chief Tom Wadson could not be reached for comment last night.

But it is known that bad weather has also left the industry reeling with a pre-Christmas storm wiping out many crops like tomatoes, lettuce, while carrots are in short supply.

Industry insiders admit there is a problem with Island retailers' resistance to locally-grown crops.

One said that at least one supermarket is not interested in supporting the local industry at all, while others appear reluctant to buy on-Island.

The insider added: "It looks like they would rather import before they buy from us.'' It is understood that even a shortage of fresh vegetables because of a freight capacity shortfall and more expensive rates brought on by Delta Airlines' decision to downsize the aircraft serving the Island during the winter has not changed the minds of some supermarket bosses.

Environment Minister Irving Pearman said he was aware that some farmers had concerns over the cost of importing fresh vegetables at the expense of local producers.

He said: "The Ministry will have to get more involved in the management of agriculture in Bermuda.

"We all seem to grow the same produce at the same time, so we get gluts.'' And Mr. Pearman said he was aware of a glut of cabbages -- which have a limited life, even with refrigeration.

He added: "It's something we are concerned about -- I have discussed it with the Director of Agriculture and Fisheries and we will be keeping appraised of the situation.

"Farming is a private industry but -- if for reasons of cost or quality -- local supermarkets don't want to market local produce, we have to be concerned about it.'' Tredick Gorham, who represents the supermarkets in the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, said his Supermart in Hamilton bought locally where possible.

He added: "My belief is people buy as much as they can from local farmers and if there is enough of a type of product available, we have to buy it from them -- there is an embargo brought in.

"It's been that's way for as long as I have been in the business and that's been for more than 20 years.'' And he said he would be happy to discuss with farmers any problems they have.

He added: "We should be sitting down and talking about things -- it's good to support local producers in every way.''