Forestry Division receives large contribution under biodiversity protection program

The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica will officially distribute essential tools and equipment to the Forestry Division as part of the ongoing implementation of the “Leveraging Eco-tourism for Biodiversity Protection in Dominica” (LETBP) Project.

A press release from the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, said that this activity represents a significant milestone in Dominica’s efforts to strengthen eco-tourism, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable livelihoods.

The Ministry further shared that the LETBP Project is financed through a grant of EC$9.45 million provided by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), which it also said is the world’s largest funder of initiatives focused on nature conservation and climate resilience. The funding is administered through the World Bank, the GEF’s designated implementing agency. The project, which became effective in December 2022, is currently in its third year of implementation and is scheduled to conclude in June 2027.

The project is structured around four main components:

1. Strengthening Institutional Framework for Protected Area Planning & Management
This includes the development of management plans for Cabrits National Park and the Waitukubuli National Trail.

2. Enhancing Eco-tourism Infrastructure and Visitor Experience
This involves rehabilitating eco-tourism sites and providing resources for trail maintenance.

3. Enhancing Sustainable Livelihoods
Upgrades to tourism facilities, creation of new trail linkages, and training programs in canoe building, Kalinago cultural skills, and youth empowerment are part of this component.

4. Project Coordination and Management This pertains to the operations of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU).

As part of Component 2, a “competitive procurement process” was conducted to acquire tools and equipment aimed at assisting the Forestry Division in maintaining eco-tourism trails and enhancing visitor safety within protected areas. The Ministry reports that the contract for supplies was awarded to D Supply and Tyre Store Ltd. for a total of EC$77,173.38.

The equipment includes “Chainsaws, Mist Blowers, Power Washers, Pole Pruners, Hedge Trimmers, Power Drills, Pruning Saws, Wheelbarrows, Sprinklers, Mowing Heads’ Cutlasses, Files and Garden hoses.”

“The LETBP Project underscores the Government’s dedication to environmental sustainability with special emphasis on community inclusion and cultural preservation,” said the statement.

A handing-over ceremony is scheduled to take place on:
Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Botanic Gardens, near the Gazebo

The event will be attended by key stakeholders, partners, and community members, marking an important occasion in the ongoing efforts to promote eco-tourism and environmental conservation in Dominica.