Coastal Conservation
Counteracting Climate Change One Tree At A Time
The Richmond Coastal Wetland is the last of its kind left in St Vincent and the Grenadines. This critical habitat supports the overall biodiversity of many species of fish, shellfish, birds, and marine mammals that local people rely on for food.
Over the years the Richmond beach area has been severely damaged. The beach has suffered from rising sea levels and loss of land. This is due in part to climate change-related disasters and people who mine the beach for sand and other resources.
The country is at serious risk of losing this essential ecosystem. That’s why Richmond Vale Academy is on a mission to conserve and rebuild this coastline by planting trees like neem, pandanus, coconut, seagrass, and white and red mangroves.
“The main focus of this project over the next five years will be to establish a “full”, mixed species plot. The Richmond Beach Coastal Wetland area offers a possibility for long term survival and success because of the size and current existing features of the area and through the engagement of the academy. Both red and white mangroves should do well at this site, as they will benefit from the already existing mature shrubbery in the area. A number of different planting methods can be used. Both red and white seedlings can be introduced directly into the soil, as has already been done. In addition, encasement planting can also be done, using red mangrove seedlings in either bamboo or PVC tubes, closer to the water’s edge. The seedlings will need to be planted in individual, species-specific transects so that comparison monitoring can be done over time. Transect sizes will have to be varied according to species and ground conditions.”
– Tyrone W. Buckmire, Director, Grenada Fund for Conservation, Inc.
Our Role In Conserving The Coastline
Understanding the importance of these ecosystems and how to preserve them is new for many people in the Carribean. But it’s important for everyone’s health and and future safety to spread awareness about this issue.
Lessons on biodiversity have been taught by Richmond Vale Academy volunteers in several local schools over the past years. All whilst partnering with the local businesses like the Lions Club, Police Cooperative Credit Union, Parks Rivers and Beaches Authority, and the Forestry Department.
Furthermore, planting actions have been carried out every year, several times a year, with the further planting of more trees and biodiversity. These actions have been met with gratitude and respect from the local community.