Bio-diversity

the first flower show was held in 1974 and has since been held for several years annually, then bi-annually, followed by several years of absence, using various venues like- the school, church, community hall, playing field in Giraudel/ Eggleston, causing great inconvenience under stressful conditions and proving very costly. Through the efforts of the community, within one month of the purchase of the land in 2004, temporary structures were erected and a flower show was held that year. However, heavy rains and wind destroyed the structure the same year thus the inability of hosting a show for the past 5 years. Thru assistance received from the Government of Dominica the construction of a permanent building has begun. The completion of the building would provide an annual home for the flower show and a storage area for tools and materials. In addition, a building is a necessary asset in the development of the Botanical centre- to host groups of visitors, hold meeting and lectures and to provide a venue for any indoor Botanical Centre events. A stop off point is also needed for visitors and tourists, which will provide rest, refreshments, toilet facilities, as well as a venue for cultural activities, and the sale of craft and culinary items. The Giraudel/ Eggleston Flower Show market fair which began in 1974, is an attraction for Dominicans and visitors alike, as well as an income earning activity. This large scale show of cut flower arrangements is organised and run almost entirely from voluntary labour and support from within the community and is presently coordinated by the flower grower group. Therefore the group is seeking to complete the permanent building for the housing of the flower show.

Dominica