Locations38 Forestry Officers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines Trained in Dendrology to Strengthen Forest Ecosystem Management
May 9, 2025
Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines - As part of the ongoing implementation of the Ridge to Reef Project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Transformation, Forestry, Fisheries, Industry, and Labour has successfully trained 38 Forestry Department officers in Dendrology — the scientific study of trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.
The intensive training, conducted by Spazio VC, combined theoretical and practical approaches to enhance officers’ ability to identify key forest species, directly supporting sustainable forest ecosystem management. Participants explored key topics including plant classification, scientific naming, tree identification, plant structure and form, seed dispersal, and specimen collection techniques.
Through the training, which concluded on May 7th at the Vermont Nature Trail, officers gained advanced skills in species identification and categorization, strengthening their ability to conduct forest audits, resolve technical challenges, and contribute more effectively to conservation efforts. A comprehensive Dendrology Manual, complete with detailed photographs and identification guides, was also developed to support continuous learning within the Forestry Department and among environmental practitioners.
Felecia Baptist of the Forestry Education Department described the exercise as a "valuable experience" and emphasized the need to expand similar training opportunities to more officers. Ansaki Roberts, Technical Aide in the Forestry Department, shared that the knowledge gained will enhance her ability to identify various plant species across different ecosystems. Amos Glasgow, former Forestry Officer and lead facilitator of the training, expressed confidence in the officers' ability to apply their knowledge and encouraged them to continuously refine their skills through practice and fieldwork.
This initiative aligns with the Ridge to Reef Project’s overarching goal to promote inclusive and sustainable solutions for the conservation, restoration, and responsible use of ecosystems and natural resources, ensuring that St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains resilient in its efforts to safeguard biodiversity and combat land degradation.
About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at undp.org/barbados or follow at @UNDPBarbadosEC on social media.
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