The Government of Dominica has begun work on a new initiative aimed at improving the long-term protection and management of the Morne Diablotin National Park, one of the country’s most important environmental assets.
According to a Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment press release, the project will focus on clearly defining the park’s boundaries and creating a buffer zone around the protected area to help safeguard its natural resources while supporting sustainable community development.
The undertaking is being carried out under the Leveraging Eco-Tourism for Biodiversity Protection in Dominica (LETBP) Project, financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and implemented through the World Bank in collaboration with the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Following what officials say was a competitive procurement process, Environment Direct Consulting Inc. was selected to lead the assignment. The Dominican-owned environmental and geospatial consulting company is headed by Dr. Camille David and reportedly brings more than two decades of experience in environmental science, biodiversity conservation, geographic information systems (GIS), protected area management, land-use planning, and stakeholder engagement throughout the Caribbean.
The Ministry noted that the exercise forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the management of protected areas while promoting eco-tourism and sustainable development. Morne Diablotin National Park plays a critical role in preserving Dominica’s biodiversity, providing habitat for endemic species, protecting important watersheds and supporting ecosystem services that benefit both communities and the wider economy.
A major feature of the project will be the development of a buffer zone surrounding the park. The release said that the concept was first proposed in the Morne Diablotin National Park Management Plan and is intended to create a transition area between the protected forest and surrounding communities.
Buffer zones can help reduce pressures on protected areas while creating opportunities for environmentally compatible economic activities and sustainable livelihoods for nearby residents, said the Ministry.
The consultancy will involve a comprehensive consultation process with landowners, community members, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Discussions will focus on determining suitable buffer zone boundaries, addressing land ownership and tenure issues, and identifying solutions that balance conservation goals with the needs and interests of affected communities.
Minister for Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, Honourable Cozier Frederick, welcomed the initiative and emphasized its importance to Dominica’s environmental future.
“As Dominica continues to position itself as a global leader in climate resilience and environmental stewardship, the protection of our protected areas remains a national priority. This initiative represents an important investment in the future of Morne Diablotin National Park, ensuring that its forests, wildlife, watersheds, and ecological values are preserved while fostering sustainable opportunities for surrounding communities. Together, we are strengthening the foundation of a greener, more resilient Dominica.”
The Ministry is encouraging stakeholders to actively participate in the consultation process and says collaboration will be key to ensuring the successful implementation of the project.
