Although public and private entities often pledge to develop sustainable partnerships for green spaces and ecotourism through community buy-in, the Tobago Reforestation and Watershed Rehabilitation Programme is actively turning those plans into reality.
Chairman of the Tobago Reforestation and Watershed Rehabilitation Programme, Sean McCoon, says their mandate is more than just a fancy name.
“From our very beginnings, we really supposed to add value to communities, to the island’s green business opportunities, to shine a light on our eco-tourism products.”
This is seen in their support of the Mid-East Adventure Park in Richmond.
Director on the Board of Tobago Dark Warriors Kickboxing, Ostra Trotman, said her group began clearing the area during COVID-19 as a space for training, but soon recognised its broader potential. Needing assistance, they tendered through the reforestation programme in 2023.
“We are thankful that Tobago Reforestation allowed us to open up the space with the help of the cadre, because they work very, very, very hard.”
Working with the community, Ms Trotman was able to clear more of the area and establish trails and camping spaces between the river and the beach, which feature a bamboo cottage.
“Like Trinidad, we have bamboo cathedral, but we have the bamboo cottage in Tobago.”
The area also has a lot of historical significance, as it was used as one of the filming locations in the 1960 Disney movie Swiss Family Robinson.
“That site also is there. Some of the rocks and so on that they would have made for the space to look a little more treacherous, they are still there, so we try to maintain it. We erected a sign so that persons who visit the area would know what it is all about.”
Along the trails, visitors are greeted by the gentle flutter of diverse bird species, the tranquillity of the surroundings, fresh, clean air, and an overwhelming sense of peace.
“We would like the park to be a space where families could come and bring their kids to do different activities.”
Ms Trotman says there is a lot more to be done, and it is about building a sustainable legacy which helps develop the community. For Mr McCoon, this vision represents what the fruits of their labour look like.
“Not just for environmental conservation and environmental awareness and stewardship, but to really show how partnerships can be sustainable and how the island really needs that type of engagement with partnerships.”