Restoring the mangrove forests of the Lower Yuna National Park

The treasure of the Dominican Republic – The country’s mangrove forests absorb enormous amounts of CO2, provide a habitat for animal and plant species and are a source of food and income for the inhabitants of the coastal communities in Samaná Bay. Every day, large areas of the mangrove forest of the Lower Yuna National Park are disappearing and the economic situation of the people in the area is worsening.

This project addresses the challenges of tourism, fisheries and agriculture resulting from the impacts of climate change. We are increasing the resilience of economic activities by planning and implementing sustainable practices, developing economic activities such as ecotourism and other biodiversity-enhancing business ideas with the communities, and involving the population in the reforestation of mangrove forests. Scientific and local knowledge about climate change is linked to create the conditions for ecosystem-based adaptation practices in conjunction with sustainable livelihoods.

Project area

Goals

Restoration of 100 ha of mangrove forests as a buffer against coastal erosion and as nursery areas for marine animals

Creating a new management plan for the Lower Yuna National Park

Promote the development of 3 economically complementary and sustainable activities with the municipality of Sanchez.

Develop sustainable fisheries that allow commercially exploited species to recover through the protection of nursery areas.

Creation of a diverse and attractive community-based tourism offer that generates income for local communities.

Improve knowledge of the mangrove forest and the environmental services it provides among 1530 people in the Sanchez community to ensure their ownership, participation and understanding of the conservation measures implemented.

Impacts

80 ha

Mangrove forest of the Lower Yuna National Park restored

760

Children educated, involved in sustainable activities and/or activities that lead to better opportunities in life.

400

Fishermen are being trained in sustainable and traditional fishing practices, and 50 of them are switching to sustainable fishing methods to conserve the fishery resources in the Bay of Samana.