Bio-diversity

One important aspect that initiated the project idea came from the identification of a Problem that exists with the community s culture and heritage practices and eventually the identification of a complementary Solution to try and correct the negative developmental effects of the problem cited. The Problem : Unavailability of an organized group, sustainable livelihood opportunities and technological resources to help rekindle our environmental influenced culture & heritage, which will help provide avenues for the community to practice, research on, generate income and store (electronically and non-electronically) our traditional knowledge and practices. The Solution : Develop an organization and livelihood projects with the responsibility to foster our village s culture & heritage qualities, which will operate through a Resource/Tourist Information Centre in an Eco-safe environment (World Heritage Site). The project Aim is: To ensure our culture & heritage practices and awareness is maintained by sustaining the livelihood benefits of our surrounding natural environment re UNESCO World Heritage Site. Objectives Primary objective: To make available the technical and technological resources required to help sustain the environment, livelihood opportunities and the community s culture and heritage. Specific objectives: 1. Provide a Resource/Tourist information Centre with; Availability of technological resources (computers, printers, cameras/video, projector, etc.) Availability of a traditional resource/tourist information library Space area for cultural practices, presentations, meetings, seminars, etc. Area for storing tools and equipment Kitchen space for culinary preparation and catering for fun raising activities Incorporate renewable energy if possible (solar and biogas) 2. Improve the community s human capacity to sustain the Environment, culture and heritage practices and knowledge through; Formation of an organization for strengthening the community s culture and heritage qualities. Capacity training in tour guiding, Environment business management, educational opportunities, attends local and regional cultural expo s, etc. Training in trail construction (aim: to construct a mile long trail to a scenic river near proposed site.) 3. Produce a gender equally balanced organization with the aim of sustaining our culture and heritage, and linking the age gap (sharing and storing Traditional Knowledge). 4. Influencing the sustainable use and awareness of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dominica