As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Dominica is exposed to several unique vulnerabilities such as the impact of Climate Change; economic impact of natural disasters and lack of economies of scale.
As such, Dominica has adopted the principles of sustainable development in charting its course to an improved quality of life for present and future generations.
One of the core activities forming part of the NYCD’s 2013-2015 work-plan is the facilitation of national observances on international days for protection of the environment such as Earth Day, World Water Day and World Wetlands Day.
World Wetlands Day (WWD) has been observed on the 2nd of February each year since 1971, to promote sustainable management of wetlands and raise awareness of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. This year WWD is being observed under the international theme ‘Wetlands and Agriculture: Partners for Growth’.
The NYCD plans to observe WWD from Sunday February 2nd-7th, 2014, through advocacy and educational activities and civil society dialogue on the issue of ‘Sustainable Wetland Management’.
In order to take action to preserve Dominica’s wetlands, we must firstly make ourselves more knowledgeable as to the nature, importance and value of our wetlands.
Dominica exhibits three main types of wetlands: Freshwater swamps, located at the Indian River; montane swamps, located near the Fresh Water Lake and coastal marshes, located at the Cabrits Wetland.
Wetlands can also be found within the communities of Woodford Hill, La Plaine and near the mouth of the Layou River.
The main uses of Dominica’s wetlands include, community tourism (tour guiding), education, research and artistic inspiration. This demonstrates the great socioeconomic value of our wetlands.
Wetlands also play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance within the natural environment. Certain species of plants and animals including the Kobo Crab, Fiddler Crabs, “Red-leg” crabs, swamp ferns and certain sedges, are only found within wetlands.
Many species of fish (marine and freshwater) utilize the Indian River wetland and the pools within the Cabrits National Park wetland as a nursery. Wetlands also serve as a wintering ground for some migratory birds
Wetlands play an important role in the hydrological cycle and also function as a natural form of flood-water control.
The sustainable management of Dominica’s wetlands is a joint responsibility in which every citizen must play their part, so that Dominica will remain the Nature Island of the Caribbean for Generations to come.
