The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) recently completed an investigation into the planned “Caroni Krab Dash – Flat Bottom & Small Boat Race” event, originally scheduled for 25 October 2025. The inquiry was prompted by numerous concerns raised by members of the public regarding the potential environmental impact of the event on the biodiversity living within Caroni Swamp.
In response to these concerns, the EMA engaged with event organisers, D Krab House Barge, to review the potential risks associated with the race. Officers from the EMA’s Environmental Police Unit, in coordination with game wardens and Praedial Larceny officers from the Forestry Division, conducted a detailed assessment of the proposed racecourse, which stretched from the Maritime Drain to the El Socorro Ext. Rd #1 Drain.
The investigation evaluated the potential effects on the surrounding ecosystem, particularly the Caroni River and its drainage system, which form an integral part of the Caroni Swamp. The swamp has been designated a Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar site) for its ecological significance and its importance in the conservation of biodiversity in Trinidad and Tobago. The Caroni Swamp also serves as one of the only known breeding habitats for the Scarlet Ibis, an Environmentally Sensitive Species (ESS). The primary concern raised during the review was the risk of noise levels that would be generated by the race and the effect it would have on the Scarlet Ibis.
After a thorough evaluation, it was determined that the event posed significant environmental risks, and the EMA communicated these concerns to the coordinators of the event. As a result, the decision was made by the coordinators of the event to cancel it to safeguard the integrity of the ecosystem.
The EMA reminds all that the Scarlet Ibis has been designated as one of the Environmentally Sensitive Species (ESS) and is protected by law. Habitat preservation is crucial for the species, and appropriate enforcement action will be taken against those conducting any unauthorised activities impacting the environment with respect to an ESS pursuant to Section 62(d) Environmental Management Act, Chap. 35:05 (the Act).
According to the Act, “Any person who knowingly or recklessly undertakes or conspires to allow any activity in an environmentally sensitive area or with respect to an environmentally sensitive species designated under Section 41, which may have an adverse impact on the environment within such area or on such species, commits an offence. Individuals who commit an offence involving any of the ESS can be imprisoned for two years and pay a fine of $100,000.00.
The EMA remains committed to ensuring that all events are held in adherence to the Environmental Management Act to protect and preserve Trinidad and Tobago’s biodiversity. Members of the public are encouraged to stay engaged with state agencies and NGOs focused on safeguarding our environment. If you have any concerns, contact the EMA’s Hotline at 367-8824 (submit contact information, locations, photos or video recordings ONLY from mobile devices. WhatsApp calls are not available on this service), complaints@ema.co.tt or call 226-4EMA (4362) Ext #5.