By Brent Simon
At a recently Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) consultation Mrs. Camelia Wallace-Tongue-Senior Forestry Officer, Mr. Sebastian Cochrane-Nursery Technician and Mr. Brent
Simon-Communications Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy. This meeting was the first of a series of consultations that was conducted by Socioeconomic Consultant Miss Christell Chesney and Offshore Islands Conservation Programme Coordinator Shanna Challenger of the EAG to advance a socioeconomic survey on the possible reintroduction of the Antigua Racer to the mainland.
The conversation addressed the benefits of restoring a critically important native species and the very real concerns of farmers, communities, and other stakeholders who would be directly affected. The team explored potential risks, land-use implications, and the level of public awareness and engagement needed if the species is ever to return safely and successfully to mainland Antigua. Additionally, the discussion addressed the areas where the Ministry of Agriculture could support the initiative through technical expertise, field work and capacity-building opportunities.
This survey is part of a wider effort to understand how conservation goals can align with local livelihoods in Antigua and Barbuda. As part of their study, more stakeholder input will be gathered from government bilateral meetings, community consultations and a nationwide questionnaire as the EAG refines its assessment and maps the next steps.
