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The Ecosystems Management Branch
of the National Environment and Planning Agency, NEPA, will be
hosting a two day stakeholder meeting and workshop to discuss the
reforestation of the upper Rio Bueno-White River (Ocho Rios)
Watershed Area. The workshop will be held on July 8 & 9, 2008
starting at 8:30 a.m. on both days, at the Executive Shaw Park Guest
House, 13 Shaw Park Road, Ocho Rios, St. Ann.
This consultation is in
preparation for the implementation of a pilot project later this
year. Given the severe damage wrought on the area by recent flood
rains, NEPA is endeavouring to identify critical sections in the
watershed which require enhanced forest cover as a means of
controlling the release of stormwater and sediment flows downstream.
The consultation is also intended to obtain stakeholder input with
respect to site selection, tree species suitability/desirability and
monitoring requirements with respect to the viability of the trees
after they have been planted.
The objectives of the proposed pilot project
include:
1. Improvement of the status of the watersheds
through public awareness and stakeholder participation.
2. Protection of critical surface water
features, livelihoods and infrastructure.
3. Promotion of the integrated protection,
conservation and development of the land and water resources in
these watersheds to ensure sustainable use.
4. Enhance biodiversity habitat and
protection.
The target audience for this consultation
includes representatives from the Ministry of Water & Housing,
National Water Commission, Forestry Department, Rural Agricultural
Development Authority, Social Development Commission, The Nature
Conservancy, The White River Watershed Stakeholders Committee, Hills
United Development Organisation, St. Ann Parish Council, Ocho Rios
Nature Preserve Trust along with land owners from the area.
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