Description 

The dry forest in northeastern Saint Lucia is a unique ecosystem characterized by its arid conditions and vegetation adapted to drought. Stretching along the northeast coast of the island, this forest is home to rich biodiversity and archaeological sites that bear witness to the presence of the first Amerindian inhabitants.

However, this precious forest faces significant environmental challenges. In order to preserve this natural and cultural heritage, as well as improve its management and the sustainable use of its natural resources, several organizations are collaborating to implement an action plan called “The Iyanola Natural Resource Management Project on the Northeast Coast.” These stakeholders include the Ministry of Sustainable Development, the Ministry of Land Use Planning, the Forestry and Fisheries Divisions, as well as community groups, landowners, and local stakeholders who are joining forces to support these conservation initiatives.

Biodiversity

The dry forest in northeastern Saint Lucia is home to various species adapted to this specific habitat that are important for agriculture, water supply, and livelihoods. At the heart of this biodiversity is the Saint Lucia iguana, an endemic species found exclusively on the island and concentrated in the Iyanola region.

In addition to this iconic reptile, the region is a refuge for many endemic plants and rare birds such as the white-throated mockingbird, a species highly threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as pressure from non-native predators. This forest is now home to 75% of the world’s population of this rare species.

Ecotourism potential

The Iyanola Natural Resource Management Project on the northeast coast was also established to support nature-based tourism, which includes maintaining marine and forest product businesses.

The central region of Iyanola is home to at least two major tourist attractions: Rainforest Adventures, a natural attraction located in Chassin that offers activities such as hiking trails, aerial tram rides, and zip lines through the canopy; and Fond Latisab Creole Park, a place where local culture and traditions are showcased, such as the preparation of kassav bread on macambou leaves, river crayfish fishing, chak-chak music, and traditional local wood carving.

Source

Current status of the Endangered White-breasted Thrasher (<em>Ramphocinclus brachyurus</em>), a dry forest songbird endemic to Saint Lucia and Martinique | Journal of Caribbean Ornithology (birdscaribbean.org) 

(2) Iyanola… – Department of Sustainable Development Saint Lucia | Facebook 

15685-iyanola_project_document_tors.pdf (caricom.org) 

Fond Latisab Creole Park (odyssea.eu)