OECS launches environmental and socio-economic study in Vieux-Fort

Friday, February 5, 2010 – The Secretariat of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is conducting a study of the natural, social, economic and physical attributes of the Pointe Sable Environmental Protection Area (PSEPA), a protected area located in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia. The site study, which commenced in late January 2010, is being undertaken by CEPro Consultants Limited – a Saint Lucia based firm. The consultants are expected to complete their work in three months.

The environmental and socio-economic study is intended to further define the environmental and socio-economic features in the protected area, identify any significant species of plants and animals, determine the economic value of the assets contained in the area and obtain information on the community issues and conditions which have an effect on the area and its management.

When completed, the study will provide a detailed and up to date description of the site. This will include maps, a plan for monitoring impacts and a dollar value given to the resources in the Pointe Sable area. Additionally, the study will describe the socio-economic conditions and issues found in the communities within the area. The OECS Secretariat anticipates that through the conduct of the study, the Government of Saint Lucia will have additional information to guide the management of the site.

According to Bishnu Tulsie, Director of the Saint Lucia National Trust, (who has responsibility for the Point Sable), “this study will add to our knowledge about the value of the resources of the site as well as strengthen arguments in support of development approaches which seek to conserve economically and socially valuable natural resources.” Bishnu noted further that the Saint Lucia National Trust intends to use the study outputs “to advance arguments presented within the site and beyond. We also look forward to its recommendations regarding the promotion of site level sustainable livelihood opportunities and management arrangements.”

PSEPA is one of six sites supported by the OECS Protected Areas and Associated Livelihoods (OPAAL) project. The PSEPA is a multi-use area that is managed for the purpose of protecting the natural beauty and interest in the area. The protected area stretches from Pointe De Caille to Moule A Chique in Vieux Fort and comprises beaches, mangroves, sea grasses, corals, offshore islands and open waters. The site has several important historical features and several unique animals such as the St. Lucia Whip Tail Lizard.

The OECS Secretariat has also supported the preparation of a plan to manage this protected area.

Media Contact:                       Tecla Fontenard, tfontenard@oecs.org Tel. (758) 455-6366

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