The Long Pond Project
Development of a Natural Heritage Conservation Area at Long Pond, St. Andrew, Barbados
Description
Long Pond is a coastal lagoon on the East Coast of the island. Long Pond is fed by the Bruce Vale and Walkers Rivers which are the 2nd and 3rd largest watersheds in the island. The area has several significant and unique habitats such as a sand dune system, mangroves, a marshy wooded area and the pond itself. The area, located in the parish of St. Andrew, is bordered by Walker’s Reserve to the North, Belleplaine to the West and by private lands to the South.
Natural resources
The pond includes a variety of aquatic habitats, such as the open muddy/sandy bottom main area, flooded marginal grassy areas, and vegetation covered banks with holes and undercuts. Some areas are overhung by extensive vegetation. These habitats are inhabited by several species of fishes, crabs, and shrimps. The area is frequented by many resident and migratory water birds. The beach is a key nesting area for leatherback sea turtles.
.jpeg)
Activities and community
Long Pond is threatened by several abuses and is in need of conservation. Although it is located within the National Park and has been identified as a Conservation Area, little has happened to mobilize the funds for this type of effort. This unique habitat is one of the few areas remaining in Barbados where one can go and be entirely out of sight and sound of human activity. It has the potential to be an area of spiritual renewal and refreshment for visitors and locals alike. At the same time the unique habitats and ecology of the site make it a priority for conservation. It also could serve as a place where Barbadians and visitors can go to enjoy and learn about nature.
Project Brief
This project, with funding from the Barbados Environmental Sustainability Fund (BESF) (US$53,000) and a British High Commission small grant (US$5,000), aims to establish Long Pond as a self-sustaining, community-based conservation area. This is with the goal of conserving and enhancing biodiversity, increasing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors, promoting community empowerment, providing livelihood opportunities for the local community, providing an ecotourism facility, and supporting the development of the National Park.
Special thanks to our contributors
.png)