Nevis Island Assembly Establishes Protected Areas by Resolution

The Nevis Island Assembly has taken a monumental step towards environmental conservation with the unanimous passage of a resolution establishing two new protected areas: the Nevis Peak National Park and the Camps River Watershed. This landmark decision, championed by Honourable Spencer Brand, Minister of Physical Planning and Environment, underscores the Nevis Island Administration’s (NIA) dedication to sustainable environmental management and the preservation of the island’s rich biodiversity. The resolution aligns with the principles outlined in the St. George’s Declaration of Environmental Sustainability, a regional commitment by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to protect and manage the environment.

The newly designated Nevis Peak National Park encompasses the forested area of Nevis Peak above the 1000-foot contour. This area, categorized as a Category II Protected Area under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines, will be subject to stringent conservation measures to maintain its ecological integrity. Category II protected areas are managed primarily for ecosystem protection and recreation. This designation allows for sustainable tourism and recreational activities that do not compromise the natural environment. The establishment of the park ensures the preservation of the unique flora and fauna found at higher elevations, safeguarding this vital ecosystem for future generations. The park’s establishment will also contribute to maintaining the island’s water resources, as forested areas play a critical role in regulating water cycles.

Complementing the Nevis Peak National Park is the designation of the Camps River Watershed as a protected area. This critical watershed plays a crucial role in providing freshwater resources to the island and supports a diverse range of plant and animal life. Protecting this watershed is essential for maintaining the island’s ecological balance and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its water supply. The protection of the Camps River Watershed acknowledges the interconnectedness of the island’s ecosystems and the importance of preserving the entire hydrological cycle. By safeguarding the watershed, the NIA is demonstrating its commitment to a holistic approach to environmental management.

The responsibility for managing, administering, and enforcing the regulations pertaining to these newly established protected areas falls under the purview of the Department of Physical Planning and Environment. This department will play a crucial role in developing and implementing management plans, ensuring compliance with regulations, and promoting sustainable practices within and around the protected areas. This centralized authority streamlines the management process and ensures a coordinated approach to conservation efforts. The Department will also consider development applications within the elevation band between 1000 and 1300 feet above sea level, demonstrating a balanced approach between development and conservation. This cautious approach aims to minimize the environmental impact of development in the sensitive transition zone between the protected area and surrounding lands.

Minister Brand emphasized the significance of this resolution, highlighting the NIA’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding Nevis’ natural heritage. He underscored the importance of balancing development with sustainability, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the island’s pristine environment. This resolution represents a proactive step towards ensuring that economic progress does not come at the expense of environmental degradation. It reflects a growing global understanding of the intrinsic link between a healthy environment and a thriving economy. By prioritizing conservation, the NIA is investing in the long-term well-being of the island and its people.

The final step in formalizing the protection of these areas involves the official gazetting of the resolution. This legal process makes the declaration publicly accessible and legally binding, ensuring the long-term protection of these vital ecosystems. The gazetting process is a critical component of ensuring transparency and accountability in environmental management. By publicly declaring the establishment of these protected areas, the NIA is reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship and inviting public participation in conservation efforts. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of shared responsibility and strengthens the overall effectiveness of conservation initiatives.