Government of St. Kitts and Nevis Advances Plans to Protect Royal Basseterre Valley National Park

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 28, 2025 (SKNIS): The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is taking significant steps to strengthen the protection of the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park while promoting its future sustainable development.

Natural Fence Construction Underway

A natural fence for the designated green space along the Kim Collins Highway is currently under construction. This barrier will help protect the rich diversity of flora and fauna in the area, as well as the Basseterre Valley Aquifer, which supplies most of the Basseterre and Frigate Bay areas with fresh water.

Minister’s Statement

Minister of Sustainable Development and Environment, the Honourable Dr. Joyelle Clarke, highlighted elements of the project while making a statement to the National Assembly on February 27, 2025.

“We are working on this project in collaboration with the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and part of this project allows for the fencing of this area,” said Dr. Clarke. “Naturally, because it is a protected space, we have serious guidelines to follow and we are following them to maintain not just biodiversity but the protection of our very precious aquifer.”

Project Approval and Timeline

After reviewing the proposal and confirming its alignment with required environmental protections, the Planning Department has approved the fencing project. The project is expected to be completed in seven months.

Conclusion

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is committed to protecting the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park and its surrounding environment. This project is a significant step towards achieving this goal, and we look forward to its successful completion.

FAQs

* What is the purpose of the natural fence?
– The natural fence will help protect the rich diversity of flora and fauna in the area, as well as the Basseterre Valley Aquifer.
* Who is collaborating on the project?
– The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is working in collaboration with the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
* How long will the project take to complete?
– The project is expected to be completed in seven months.
* What is the significance of the Basseterre Valley Aquifer?
– The Basseterre Valley Aquifer supplies most of the Basseterre and Frigate Bay areas with fresh water.