Bio-diversity

The community of El Luengo is situated at the north western extremity in the Maracas Valley, St. Joseph the first capital of Trinidad. El Luengo hosts a resident population of about two thousand (2000) persons. It consists primarily of agricultural crops and lush forests that form the upper watershed in the valley. The importance of the watershed is reflected in the topographical maps that show the more than eighteen (18) tributaries that flow into the Morang River and eventually into the St. Joseph River also referred to as the Maracas River originate in this area. In the past quarrying operations were carried out in the valley and within recent times the attitudes of quarrying operators suggest that consideration is being given to reactivate quarrying operations. When one considers the degree of unemployment particularly among the youths it is not too far fetched to conclude, that despite the detrimental effects of such operation on the community such activities may muster significant support. The main goal of the project is to conduct an Inventory of the Biological Diversity of the area and develop a Plan for Conservation and Management for the El Luengo Village. The exercise will encompass the participation of the entire community in the inventory of the biological diversity and forest typing, water testing, soil classification and education and training. Ultimately the community will take collective responsibility for the conservation and management of its natural resources.

Trinidad and tobago