WHY THE BLUE & JOHN CROW MOUNTAINS MATTER
The Blue and John Crow Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, are vital for Jamaica’s biodiversity, water security, and climate resilience. However, deforestation and unsustainable practices threaten the region’s ecological balance. A Public Education & Community Outreach Programme was designed to bridge the gap between environmental awareness and action, empowering communities to protect and sustain this national treasure.
WHO WE ENGAGED
- Local Communities (Penlyne Castle, Millbank, Moore Town)
- Recreational Users (At Holywell Park)
- General Public (Through Digital)
 |
 |
WHAT WE ACHIEVED
 |
Holywell Bioblitz
The Holywell Bioblitz engaged 115 participants, many experiencing their first bioblitz and first visit to the park. Guided by experts and equipped with tools like binoculars and ID cards, attendees documented 514 species using the iNaturalist app, from butterflies to orchids. The event fostered a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and contributed valuable data to conservation efforts in the Blue and John Crow Mountains. |
 |
National Park Week During National Park Week, Holywell welcomed approximately 500 visitors, 62% of whom were visiting for the first time. Free entry and activities like yoga, a bioblitz, and a paint & sip session inspired appreciation for the Blue & John Crow Mountains. These experiences combined fun with education, fostering a deeper connection to nature and encouraging future visits to the park. |
 |
School Field Trips
Grade 5 and 6 students across 6 schools were transported from remote communities to Holywell Park, many visiting for the first time. Students explored the Oatley Mountain trail, participated in quizzes, and engaged in discussions about the Blue & John Crow Mountains' role in combating climate change. Equipped with educational materials, they left with a deeper understanding of biodiversity and sustainable practices to protect their natural environment. |
 |
Agroforestry Workshops Agroforestry workshops in Cornwall Barracks and Westphalia empowered farmers with sustainable agricultural practices to protect the Blue and John Crow Mountains. Through interactive sessions and hands-on demonstrations, participants learned techniques like soil erosion prevention and disaster risk mitigation. A total of 329 tools, along with native tree seedlings, were distributed to equip farmers with the resources needed to adopt ecologically friendly methods. |
 |
Interpretive Exhibit
The new Interpretive Exhibit at the Visitors Centre features an immersive blend of forest cover displays, 3 tree species, 4 key bird species, the Jamaican Swallowtail butterfly, a cave area with replicas of the Jamaican Coney, and a mini Maroon museum. An accompanying educational infographic provides visitors with a clear understanding of the park’s biodiversity, the importance of conservation, and how they can support these efforts. This interactive space enhances visitor engagement, offering a comprehensive overview of the Park’s ecological and cultural significance. |
