International Day of Forests Observed in Antigua and Barbuda

Restoring Nature, Sustaining Futures: International Day of Forests Observed in Antigua and Barbuda- By Tyreke G Thomas-Horsford

BENDALS, ANTIGUA — In observance of the International Day of Forests, the Forestry Unit within the Department of Agriculture, within the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & the Blue Economy, partnered with Royalton Antigua – an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, to host a meaningful tree-planting initiative at Body Pond in Bendals Village.

The event brought together forestry professionals, hospitality leaders, and community-minded individuals, all united by a shared commitment to environmental restoration. Over 100 trees were planted during the activity, contributing to ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the Body Pond ecosystem—an area that has faced years of environmental challenges.

Mr. Gregory Bailey/Director of Agriculture alongside Mrs. Camilla Wallace-Tonge/Forestry Officer I and other dedicated members of the Forestry Unit, led the initiative. They were joined by a team from Royalton Antigua, including Ms. Jeroma Andrew/Executive Assistant to the General Manager, Mr. Norriston Matthews/Health and Safety Manager, Ms. Joyan Lynch/Blueline Manager, Ms. Nicola Marshall/Security Supervisor, Mr. Gavin Tongue/Bellman and Ms. Beverly Jno Baptiste/Butler.

In her remarks, Ms. Wallace-Tonge highlighted that the Body Pond restoration project has been ongoing since 2007, reflecting years of commitment to environmental preservation. She further noted that the Forestry Unit began formally observing the International Day of Forests just over two years ago, strengthening national awareness and engagement around forest conservation.

Representing Royalton Antigua, Ms. Jeroma Andrew expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with the Forestry Unit. She also conveyed greetings on behalf of the General Manager, who was unable to attend, emphasizing the resort’s pride in supporting sustainable initiatives that benefit both the environment and the wider community.

Director Bailey underscored the critical role forests play both globally and nationally. He explained that forests support supply chains, regulate water systems, and contribute significantly to ecological balance—areas where Antigua and Barbuda continues to play its part. He pointed out that Body Pond has long suffered from invasive species such as lemon grass (fever grass), recurring wildfires, and negative human activity, all of which have reduced biodiversity, damaged habitats, and threatened plant and animal species that once thrived there.

“Forests are not only vital to our environment but also to our economy,” Director Bailey stated. “They provide direct employment in forestry, agriculture, watershed management, landscaping, and ecotourism, while indirectly supporting many other sectors that depend on a healthy natural environment.”

He further emphasized that forest conservation directly contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). Protecting forests, he noted, is essential to advancing the nation’s broader development agenda.

In the closing remarks delivered at the brief ceremony, Director Bailey left a powerful message to all participants: “As we begin today’s activity, I want to emphasize this—your work is essential, and it is valued.”

The tree-planting initiative stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision for a greener, more sustainable future for Antigua and Barbuda.

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