MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT COMMISSIONS DEMARCATION AND BUFFERZONE ESTABLISHMENT ACTIVITY FOR MORNE DIABLOTIN NATIONAL PARK

The Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and

Constituency Empowerment has commenced an important initiative to strengthen the protection and management of the Morne Diablotin National Park through the demarcation of park boundaries and the establishment of a buffer zone around the protected area.

The activity is being undertaken under the Leveraging Eco-Tourism for Biodiversity Protection in Dominica (LETBP) Project, which is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented through the World Bank in partnership with the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica.

Following a competitive procurement process, Environment Direct Consulting Inc., a Dominican environmental and geospatial consulting firm, managed by Dr. Camille David, has been engaged to lead the assignment. The firm brings over twenty years of experience in environmental science, geographic information systems (GIS), protected area management, land use planning, stakeholder engagement, and biodiversity conservation across the Caribbean region.

The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to improve the management of Dominica's protected areas while supporting sustainable development and eco-tourism. The Morne Diablotin National Park is one of the country's most important biodiversity assets, providing critical habitat for endemic wildlife, protecting watersheds, and supporting ecosystem services that benefit communities and the national economy.

A key component of the assignment will be the establishment of a buffer zone around the National Park. The proposed buffer zone, originally recommended under the Morne Diablotin National Park Management Plan, is intended to create a transition area that supports both conservation objectives and sustainable community use of natural resources. Buffer zones play an important role in reducing pressures on protected areas while providing opportunities for compatible economic and

livelihood activities.

The consultancy will involve extensive stakeholder engagement and consultations with

landowners, communities, government agencies, and other interested parties. The process will seek to identify and define appropriate buffer zone boundaries, address land tenure considerations, and develop recommendations that balance environmental protection with community interests.

Honourable Cozier Frederick, Minister for Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago

Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, welcomed the initiative, stating:

"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 encourages the full participation of stakeholders throughout the consultation process and looks forward to working collaboratively to ensure the successful implementation of this important national initiative.