The Tribune

FEBRUARY marks the 43rd anniversary of World Wetlands Day (WWD), and to commemorate it, the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) hosted activities in Grand Bahama and New Providence.

“This was an important activity for our youth programme,” said Shelley Cant, BNT Education Officer.

“We are always trying to give students the opportunity to help their environment as well as do some research and have fun at the same time. The students definitely enjoyed themselves and we hope they learned that looking after wetlands is important for all Bahamians!”

Each year, the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recognises and celebrates this important event with activities that raises awareness for these important habitats.

This year’s World Wetlands Day the BNT hosted a cleanup and fun day at the Bonefish Pond National Park on New Providence and a fun day at the Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama.

“Bonefish Pond is one of the last remaining coastal wetlands on New Providence. As such The Bahamas National Trust places great value on its protection,” said Science Officer, Lindy Knowles.

“We will continue these clean up and rehabilitation efforts so that Bonefish Pond can be fully restored to its full potential, to provide ecological and economic benefits.”

The event on New Providence was attended by students from the BNT after school programme called the ‘Navigators.’

Around 35 students helped remove about a half-ton of rubbish from the new kayak launch site being developed for the park. After the cleanup they got to enjoy snorkelling and kayaking tours which were the highlight of the day.

At the same time on Grand Bahama a fun day at the Lucayan National Park was held.

“Over 60 students from the Freeport Gospel Chapel and GB Catholic High schools were treated to wonderful educational games on how to maintain the wetland environment and the importance of the Wetland to our islands,” said Lisa Wildgoose, Office Manager at The Rand Nature Centre.

Wildgoose said: “Cecilia Bodie, the education specialist for Grand Bahama National Parks treated the kids to a wonderful educational tour through the wetlands of the park. The kids had a spectacular time.”

Wetlands are extremely vulnerable to agricultural practices.

Frequent use of fertilisers and herbicides impact these fragile environments.

There is also the constant threat of dredging and land reclamation. Even some wetlands that are currently protected continue to face these threats.