GEF Antigua and Barbuda

Sustainable land use practices for the conservation of soil and water resources and rehabilitation of the Body Ponds watershed on Antigua

The ecosystem integrity and functionality of Antigua has been impacted by a history of unsustainable land use (loss of native vegetation, monoculture, overgrazing, spread of invasive species, uncontrolled fires) and this has impaired ecosystem stability and health, and reduced the ability of the island to cope with cyclical weather patterns. The threat is likely to worsen given the predicted increases in environmental variability with global climate change.

The purpose of this project is to demonstrate soil and water conservation strategies to restore / maintain watershed functionality (through promotion of alternative agro-pastoral techniques, invasive species management (Citronella sp), and habitat restoration) within the Body Ponds watershed.

This watershed is the largest watershed on Antigua and is important for agriculture and livestock farming. The watershed is now heavily eroded and overrun by lemon grass (Citronella sp.) especially in the upper hilly areas. Vegetation and soil layers are very dry during the drought season which promotes forest and grass fires. There is also unregulated topsoil and sand mining in the streambeds. Ground water is threatened with contamination as a result of the improper use of agricultural chemicals by farmers.

The watershed function is impaired and in need of rehabilitation and protection. The project will demonstrate and promote alternative strategies to:

* Manage and control fires
* Achieve sustainable livestock management
* Restore / rehabilitate habitats
* Protect stream-ways, ground water aquifers and water storage facilities
* Reduce soil erosion
* Manage invasive plant species, in particular lemon grass.

In addition, pilot farms will be established to demonstrate alternative agricultural livelihoods through promoting practices that:

* Minimize the use of agro-chemicals
* Land clearance techniques without the use of fire
* Improve irrigation and water supply
* Improve product range, yield and earnings
* Improve competitiveness and marketing.

This demo project will provide a tangible example of how long term benefits are accrued by a shift towards the integrated management of watershed resources. This along with properly planned watershed development will ultimately result in positive trade-offs in comparison to the present situation.
Please see the attached document "Demonstration 1 - Body Ponds" for more information on this demonstration.

This demonstration initiative will be implemented in close coordination and linkages with the ZARAGOZA Body Ponds demonstration project “Developing an Integrated Watershed Management System in Antigua and Barbuda”.
Please see the attached pages (1 and 2) of a brochure produced for this demonstration in conjunction with the ZARAGOZA Project.

Please look at this website (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bpotter1942/collections/72157613823085883/) for pictures of the Body Ponds Watershed produced for the SIRMM Project.