Bio-diversity

The current degradation of coastal habitats in conjunction with diminishing mangroves in Carriacou, is threatening the survival of the endangered Hawksbill and Leatherbacks sea turtles, as their nesting habitats are being destroyed. This project seeks to address the issue by promoting active land management and soil conservation practices to slow or prevent erosion and protect existing coastal habitats (particularly mangroves and sea turtle nesting beaches). The project is also adopting a community based approach to combating the problem through several community strategies, guided by research scientists who will provide on-site training. The project target area is along the North West/North East Coastline of Carriacou (approximately 5 km of coastline) and several key locations with particular habitat value have been selected for consideration. This phase of the project is the design and planning phase and the grant will be used to conduct research, through the form of surveys at selected turtle nesting beaches and mangrove sites; as well as organise community /stakeholder meetings to involve the communities in the planning and designing of phase (2) of the project. The communities interests and mobilization in putting together and carrying on this project will be the most valuable learning experience. The active involvement in and ownership of this project will generate positive results not only at an environmental level, but also at a social level, integrating conservation initiatives (such as mangrove and sea turtle conservation and protection of coastal areas) with social cooperation and the generation of community-based revenues. The involvement of youths and youth groups in this project will produce a hands on acquired knowledge needed for the development of future similar projects.

Barbados