Restoration of Key Biodiversity Areas of St. Maarten – Project 1645

The project will restore coastal and terrestrial biodiversity by planting native tree species at three ecologically degraded sites: Little Key (coastal mangrove wetland), Emilio Wilson Estate (montane dry forest) and Seaside Nature Park (coastal terrestrial scrub). Once planted the saplings will be monitored and cared for, with long-term management of the sites formalized through written agreements with the appropriate stakeholders.

A citizen-science initiative to involve student volunteers in the restoration work such as site preparation, planting, mulching, watering, and monitoring survivorship of terrestrial restoration areas will help to develop local capacity and encourage support. In addition a short interpretive nature trail will be established at Emilio Wilson Estate.