Bio-diversity

The Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust (PaPWFT) is an independent, national, non-profit, environmental, non-government, volunteer, membership organization. The PaPWFT is actively involved in research, breeding and translocation of indigenous, endangered wetland ducks and birds into existing natural wildlife areas in Trinidad and Tobago. The Trust s environmental education programme focuses on aspects of the natural environment and its interactions with, and links to, human health and well being, social and economic impacts, problems and solutions. The Trust also promotes and implements the judicious use of our natural assets and lobbies for improved environmental policies, and the conservation and wise use of our natural resources. There is a general lack of understanding and hence appreciation for biodiversity (in particular wetlands and waterfowl) and the linkage that exists between biodiversity and man. As such the main aim of the project is to promote and expand the knowledge base regarding the importance of waterfowl and how they relate to, and affect biodiversity and humans in Trinidad and Tobago. The project will therefore be applicable to the biodiversity aspects of the GEF/CPS. The project will have a specific focus on: establishing the link between biodiversity and humans and establishing the link between biodiversity, wetlands and waterfowl. These linkages will be established through the in-house and outreach Biodiversity and Man education programmes delivered to primary and secondary schools and communities in Central & South Trinidad. Educational material such as books, posters, games and brochures will be published and distributed. The project will also involve the importation, captive breeding and reintroduction of endangered waterfowl, in particular the white faced whistling duck (Dendrocygna viduata) and white cheeked pintail (Anas bahamensis), in Trinidad and Tobago. A domesticated waterfowl breeding programme will be established involving the Muscovy duck. This will be carried out by members of the local schools and communities with the guidance and assistance from the PaPWFT. Success of the project will be measured by: increased awareness on the value and importance of biodiversity to humans; sustainable livelihoods created as a result of the community waterfowl breeding programme; adoption of sustainable harvesting practices; successful breeding of endangered waterfowl at PaPWFT. The project cost is estimated at TT$320 550. These funds will be used to design and publish educational material; conduct workshops; deliver the outreach programme; import and establish endangered waterfowl breeding programmes.

Trinidad and tobago