Download Nature Policy Plan Saba 1998-2003

NATURE POLICY PLAN SABA
2002 - 2007
Prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fishery
and Nature Conservation under the cooperative
agreement between LNV and VOMIL, in
cooperation with the Saba Conservation
Foundation.
March 1998
Revised June 2002
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1.1. Why a nature policy plan
1.2. Purpose of the nature policy plan
1.3. Outline of nature policy plan
1.4. Status of nature policy plan
1.5. Nature management: Organisational functions and responsibilities
2. Significance, influences and threats to the nature of Saba
2.1. Significance of the nature in Saba
2.2. Influences and threats to nature
3. Objectives of the nature policy plan
4. Protected Nature Areas
4.1. Why protected nature areas
5. Species Protection
6. Nature Policy: Correlation with other activities and management agencies
7. Implementation program
7.1. What has been achieved after the planning phase
7.2. Responsibilities of relevant agencies
7.3. Overview of actions
8. Bibliography
Appendix: map with proposed protected areas
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1. Introduction
1.1. Why a nature policy plan?
Unique natural features
Saba is rightfully called the "Unspoiled Queen" within the Netherlands Antilles. Its nature, its
scenery and its characteristic building style impressively and uniquely determine the character of
this island. This tiny 13mile2 with approximately 1600 inhabitants embraces Mt Scenery, the
highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The island hosts a highly varied topography due
to its volcanic origins and six distinctive vegetation zones including the very exceptional cloud
forest and tropical rain forest at the highest elevations. This extent of biodiversity is quite unique
for an island the size of Saba.
The marine environment surrounding the island is the habitat of some of the most beautiful,
pristine and relatively intact coral reef areas in the Caribbean.
Nature tourism and economy
Saba attracts a number of tourists who visit specifically to seek out the great nature values and
the tranquillity of the island. The island has much to offer in terms of diving and hiking without
having to alter the fundamental character of the island. The tourism strategy of Saba has been to
avoid mass tourism and focus instead on low key nature-oriented or eco-tourism. Nature-oriented
tourism is actively marketed and is of great economic importance to the island. Saba offers a
good example of how the relationship between nature and natural values on the one hand, and
tourist development on the other hand, can be positively reinforcing. It is vital that the natural
values of the island continue to be regarded as the island’s economic capital in order to ensure
sustainable growth management of tourism and other economic sectors.
The key concepts of this objective are understood to mean:
Nature: the biological manifestations and their inter-relationships, which have
developed spontaneously and are in spontaneous interaction with the abiotic
environment;
Biological diversity/ biodiversity: the diversity of ecosystems, of species and between
species. This includes in addition to nature, also the biological manifestations cultivated
and developed by man;
Natural manner: under the influence of spontaneous ecological processes and in the
original situation;
Sustainable development: integration of social, economic and ecological development,
possible for multiple generations and without depletion of natural resources.
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Balance between conservation and development
Striking a balance between nature conservation and development is necessary albeit not easy.
There are a number of ongoing concerns with regards to the long-term conservation of specific
and/ or intrinsic nature values of Saba while still encouraging the development of infrastructure
necessary to promote and enable sustainable economic development.
All economic sectors including tourism will require a specific set of policy guidelines that enables
the protection or restricted use of designated nature areas that have special and unique features.
The guidelines should identify the specific nature areas and outline appropriate uses or
restrictions in order to protect the character of the island in the interest of the whole community.
Policy guidelines will also be required to give guidance to sustainable development in the
interests of economic growth and job creation. The policy guidelines for conservation and
sustainable development should:
 Be compatible and reinforcing;
 Emphasize sustainable use of natural resources; and
 Seek to keep ecosystems and biodiversity intact i.e. development should be informed by
nature values of the principle of sustainable development and protection of biodiversity.
Nature policy and legal conservation measures
To date the island does not have comprehensive nature policy legislation. Legal conservation
measures are currently limited to the marine environment (Marine Environment Ordinance 1987).
There is a need for a policy framework that includes a hierarchy of measures geared towards
sustainable development and the protection of the island’s natural resources.
The government of the Netherlands Antilles is signatory to a number of international agreements
under the terms of Agenda 21 (UNCED, 1992), the Convention on Biological Diversity and other
international conservation treaties. In this regard, the government of the Netherlands Antilles has
made a specific choice for sustainable development. In the Policy Paper "Contouren van het
Milieu- en Natuurbeleid" (VOMIL, 1996) it is indicated that 'caring for the environment and nature
must be integrated with economic development and inform other areas of policymaking."
The Island Government of Saba believes that additional content must be given to the policy on
nature management, environmental planning and environmental hygiene at the local level. This
paper will be formulated as the Nature Policy Plan for Saba.
The Nature Policy Plan should:
 Examine the nature conservation needs on Saba and in the marine ecosystem around the
island
 Provide long-term nature management objectives informed by the principle of sustainable
development.
 Identify measures and key role players for the execution/ implementation.
The Nature Policy Plan also gives content to the responsibility and obligation of local island
governments to draft a local nature policy plan as stipulated in the 'Landsverordening
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Grondslagen Natuurbeheer'. The national legislative framework requires that island governments
give more content to nature conservation legislation through local nature policies.
By means of the Nature Policy Plan, the Government of Saba underscores its commitment to
safeguarding the nature of Saba for both current and future generations on a sustainable basis
in the interest of tourism and economic development of the island. Through its own unique
natural identity, Saba is contributing to the preservation of the biological diversity of the
Netherlands Antilles and the greater region.
1.2. Purpose of the nature Policy Plan
The Nature Policy Plan outlines the scope of nature conservation for the Island Government,
non-governmental nature management organisations, private/ business sector, research
institutes and the general public.
The plan will serve as a basis for the collective efforts of all stakeholders to safeguard the unique
natural features of the island and ensure sustainable development on Saba. This will be achieved
both by conservation and the sustainable use of the ecological and environmental resources of
the island. The plan also constitutes an important basis for the formulation of zoning and
environmental policy plans and conforms to the "Saba, Integrated Tourism Development Master
Plan" produced in 1998.
The objectives of the nature policy plan are aimed at long-term sustainable development over a
period of about 20 years although the execution of this specific plan is limited to the period 2002
– 2007. An evaluation of the implementation progress will be conducted at the end of the
planning period and proposals will be developed for the period thereafter.
1.3. Outline of Nature Policy Plan
The following sections examine the significance and the threats to the nature of Saba. The final
section outlines the manner in which the policy will be executed and the key stakeholders in this
execution process.
1.4. Status of Nature Policy Plan
This document has no legal status whatsoever and nor is there any intention to seek legal status.
The Nature Policy Plan is a vision for the protection of the nature of Saba. It is a policy
documents that requires the consensus and compliance of all stakeholders on Saba. Nature
protection in a sustainable way can only be secured if people are economically secure and if
people share in the values of nature.
The nature policy plan should guide the drafting and enforcement of legislation. It should guide
development decision-making in the private sector and it should serve to raise awareness on the
precious yet diminishing resource of nature that is occurring worldwide. It should provide the
basis for all citizens to strive for that balance between nature and development in a sustainable
way no and the future. The nature policy plan is a guidance to secure the natural qualities of
Saba forever.
1.5. Nature Management: Organizational Functions and Responsibilities
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Although Saba is a small island, the administrative responsibilities of the island government are
vast. In order to be able to execute and co-ordinate the entire field of government functions, the
government has delegated a number of tasks to non-governmental organisations who partner
with the island government to ensure that appropriate levels of services are delivered.
With regards to nature management, the Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF), a nongovernmental nature management organisation plays an important advisory, preparatory and
executing role in cooperation with the Island Government. The SCF is the responsible
organisation for the management of the Saba National Marine Park and maintains the nature trail
network in a clean and safe state.
The responsibility of environmental improvement (such as waste removal, building regulations,
etc.) lies with the Planning Bureau and the Public Works Department. .
2. Significance, influences and threats to the nature of Saba
2.1. Significance of the nature on Saba
The unique and extensive biodiversity of the nature of Saba is an essential characteristic of the
island. Mt. Scenery, a large volcano 870m high is the highest point in the Kingdom of the
Netherlands and hosts many unharmed and intact ecosystems.
The villages of the island are situated on the middle to lower reaches while the Saba National
Marine Park at sea level surrounds the island to the 200ft depth contour.
Nature on the island performs a vital function for the natural sustenance of life and for economic
development. Apart from direct biological significance, the nature areas also provide the island
with a unique scenic quality, which serves as a great attraction for both dive tourists and hikers
who enjoy the many nature trails.
Nature plays a vital regulating function for the water balance on the island (water is constantly
caught from clouds in the cloud forest on the top of the mountain and passed through the ground
to irrigate the island below). Nature also performs a protective function against erosion or
damage by hurricanes through a natural process of regeneration, which further regulates the
microclimate of the island.
The healthy marine environment provides a recreational and an economic role but most
importantly is an important breeding ground for many species of fish and coral.
Species
The diversity of plants and plant communities is exceptionally vast, and is determined by the
variation in climatic conditions at the different altitudes. Above the 450 meter-contour,
precipitation increases gradually until it reaches its maximum of up to 870+ meters at the top of
Mt. Scenery.
At the very top of Mt Scenery is the elfin forest - a cloud forest that is unique in the region, with a
number of species of moss, liverworts, bromeliads, orchids and ferns. The forest collects large
quantities of moisture from the air, which is filtered through the ground to the lower sections of
the island.
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The palm zone, which is situated below the cloud forest and the ravine rain forest are pristine and
practically undisturbed by human activities. Lower down is the tree fern zone, a type of secondary
vegetation, which exists in conditions of high humidity. The secondary rain forest zone has
seriously been disturbed in the past by both natural phenomenon (e.g. hurricanes, etc.) and
human activity. Small agricultural plots still exist here, although where land has been left fallow
for a period, rain forest is growing back. The rainforest is among the plant communities that have
some of the highest species diversity.
The endemic terrestrial-based fauna on Saba does not host as much biodiversity as the marine
environment due to the self-contained and relatively isolated nature of the island environment.
Birds constitute the largest group of vertebrates and amphibians and reptiles constitute the
second largest group with mammals as the third - bats are the only endemic species of mammal.
The lizard Anolis sabanus is the only endemic species of vertebrates on the island. Several other
species or subspecies of vertebrates are endemic to the Lesser Antilles and Virgin Islands: some
bats, birds, reptiles and one amphibian. Of the invertebrates, very little is known and possibly
several other endemic species may exist. The scorpion found on Saba is believed to be endemic.
Of the total 26 species of summer birds, 15 are species of West Indian origin of which five are
endemic to the Lesser Antilles and the Virgin Islands and 4 subspecies are restricted to the
Lesser Antilles.
In addition, it is important to mention that Saba has a population of species that is endangered
elsewhere or that has even become extinct. These are the
Trembler, Bridled Quail Dove, Red-necked Pigeon, American Kestrel, Red-tailed Hawk, Antillean
Crested Hummingbird, Purple-throated Carib, Green-throated Carib, Audubon’s Shearwater,
Red-billed Tropic bird and Racer Snake.
The coastal waters around Saba contain a large variety of coral communities, fields of sea grass
and algae. Both the corals and the sea grass provide nourishment to the diversity of fish, weeds,
sponges, shellfish, crustaceans, and snails (among others, Conch). Various species of sea
turtles are also found in the sea around Saba. The corals and sea grass constitute a very good
breeding ground for all kinds of fish species - including commercial species, that disperse over
the large shallow area in the sea situated further away on the Saba Bank.
The Saba Bank is a large area measuring 65 x 40 km and is one of the largest existing atolls with
coral in the world. It harbours a large number of fish species. The Saba Bank falls within the
jurisdiction of the Netherlands Antilles while a smaller section falls within the 12-mile zone of
Saba. The Saba Bank provides economic opportunities for the fishing sector while the marine
park provides opportunities for tourism, which has grown since the founding of the Saba Marine
Park in 1987.
Based on the available data it can be concluded that Saba, as a small island, has a great variety
of endemic of plant species, and a lesser variety of animal life. The surrounding sea with its
corals and fish stocks is also rich in diversity.
Available data on species in Saba and surrounding sea (Carmabi 1997)
Flora
Higher plants
520
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- of which ferns and related
species (Pteridophyta)
59
Mosses and
liverworts
(Bryophyta) (known)
79
Fauna
- Birds
79
of which resident birds and
brooding species
- Reptiles and
amphibians
- Mammals
31
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The bat list for Saba now stands at
seven species, all with specimens
to document records.
1) Jamaican Fruit Bat Artibeus
jamaicensis
2) Tree Bat Ardops nichollsi
3) Lesser Antillean Fruit Bat
Brachyphylla cavernarum
4) Long-tongued Bat Monophyllus
plethodon
5) Velvety Free-tailed Bat Molossus
mollussus
6) Brazilian Free-tailed Bat
Tadarida brasiliensis
7) Funnel-eared Bat Natalus
stramineus
7 04
Fish unknown
Corals
Invertebrates many,
amount unknown of
which:
(> 200?)
At least 30
- Land crabs
- Snails
- Insect
Total number of
animal species
(known)
02
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70 (including 27
butterflies species)
> 410
Influences and threats to nature
In the past the intrinsic nature of Saba was disturbed primarily by activities related to agriculture
and breeding of livestock in the upper reaches of Mt. Scenery. With population growth and
increased standard of living, increases in tourism and construction activities; human activity now
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represents an even greater threat to the nature of Saba than before. In the absence of rules and
legislation governing conservation, uncertainty about the sustainability of existing natural values
persist and nature is under threat by ad hoc and undesirable development. Some threats to
nature include:
 Expansion of construction on upper slopes of the mountain resulting in scenic and
environmental deterioration, habitat deterioration, disturbance of nature and erosion. These
developments may have serious consequences for larger areas of hillside terrain, and may
cause an increase of silt in the water streaming downhill. Development activity along coastal
areas may have negative impacts on the coral environment in the surrounding sea. All
proposed coastal development should have a thorough and independent environmental
impact assessment conducted.
 Possible new plans to erect extra antennas on top of Mt. Scenery, affecting the valuable Elfin
Forest.
 Increase in tourism: in particular dive tourism and hiking, potentially disrupting the natural
balance, pollution).
 Illegal dumping of solid waste and/or sewage water.
 Various species are directly endangered as a result of poaching or commercial export e.g. the
Green Iguana and the Land crab on land and Sea turtles in the sea, Furthermore, there are
various species as mentioned under 2.1, that are endangered in other parts of the region or
that have disappeared completely. These species require legislative protection to ensure
survival/ replenishment. The Ordinance on ….. Exotic Species 2000??????? (fill in)
 The large number of wild goats roam in the countryside and in some areas, erosion has
occurred as a result of overgrazing particularly on the lower dryer slopes of the island. The
number of wild goats threatens the natural balance of the environment.
 The excavation by the “Stone Crusher” near the harbour poses a threat to the Marine Park if
debris and dust are deposited into the sea, which may cause direct damage to the coral
systems and beds of sea grass.
 Over- fishing, pollution by intensive ship traffic and the damage to coral by dragging anchors
potentially threaten the Saba Bank.
3. Objectives of the Nature Policy Plan
The objective of Saba’s nature policy is to:




Conserve all biological diversity.
Keep natural ecosystems intact.
Enhance scenic and landscape qualities in as natural a way s possible
Contribute to the development of sustainable resource use, in particular nature-oriented
tourism for current and future generations.
 Ensure the protection and sustainable use of natural resources for the benefit and well-being
of all citizens
The nature policy plan will also serve as a basis for development policy in general for Saba, and
for possible future zoning, environmental and tourism policy plans.
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Through the nature policy plan, Saba contributes to nature conservation in the Netherlands
Antilles and in the Caribbean. The responsibility for implementation rests with all key
stakeholders: local and central government, social organisations and citizens to collectively
conserve and make sustainable use of worldwide biological diversity.
The objective of the nature policy plan will be realised via a number of routes. Firstly, the most
important nature areas on the island must be safeguarded. A distinction therefore should be
made between (see also Chapter 4.1).
i)
ii)
A strict nature reserve
A national park
The nature areas in question will be described separately.
To supplement area conservation policies, additional measures should be taken for certain
species that are unique to Saba, which have exceptional intrinsic value, are protected
internationally with restrictive trade regulations and/or their survival is dependent on areas
outside the protected nature areas. The Nature Policy Plan outlines the measures to be taken to
enhance the support and the coherence of conservation endeavours in the community. The
purpose is to seek broad support for conservation efforts and consensus on the wise use of
natural resources
In addition, policy will include an environmental impact assessment on all major developments.
An environmental impact assessment should have very specific terms of references that
incorporate all aspects of the natural and human environment. Provisions must be made to
minimise, reduce or eradicate all possible negative impacts, loss of biodiversity or fragmentation
of ecosystems.
In the event of unavoidable impacts on nature, mitigating and compensatory measures will have
to be integrated into the project proposal. The totality of measures should be taken into account
by the administration of the Island Territory when making the assessment to grant a license or
permit to develop. The necessary legislation will be put in place for such an environmental impact
study.
The Executive Council will make use of all these premises in this Nature Policy Plan when
assessing the various planning activities on the island and will also use them as a basis for
developing zoning and environmental policy.
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Protected nature areas
4.1
Why protected nature areas
Protected areas are important instruments for nature preservation and environmental
conservation. They offer a sustainable guarantee for the preservation of the qualities of specific
and unique natural environments, ecosystems and the species.
Especially in situations where sudden developments in or around a small island like Saba can
bring about big unwanted changes, it is necessary to conserve the most important nature areas
by providing them legal protection, by safeguarding them from negative developments and by
managing them optimally.
As such, protected nature areas have several purposes:
 Intrinsic Nature: preservation of biological diversity (ecosystems, habitats, species, and subspecies.
 Scenery: preservation of characteristic landscapes and scenic qualities
 Recreation: enhancement of recreational values and the value of experiencing nature and the
scenery for all people.
 Tourism and economy: preservation of the value of nature and scenery as the basis for the
development of sustainable forms of nature-oriented tourism.
 Fishery/agriculture: sustainable forms of fishery and agriculture, which are also important to
defining a nature area.
 Ecological stability: regulation of the water balance (cloud forest collects water and transports
to lower lying parts of the island), preservation of soil fertility, erosion prevention and
regulation of the microclimate.
 Knowledge: enhancement of knowledge through research and nature and environmental
education
 Role Model Function: to be used as a model for establishing nature parks elsewhere
and for the purposes of information, education and awareness.
Classification
Based on the above criteria, the IUCN (The World Conservation Union) have formulated a
classification of five categories under which all protected areas in the world may be classified.
The first three categories are “strictly protected areas” and the last two are”resource extractive
protected areas”.
i)
ii)
iii)
iv)
v)
Strict nature reserve: mostly small areas with minimal human involvement/ interference.
National park: larger, varied and exceptional nature areas where visits by humans are
possible, as far as it does not pose a threat to the condition of nature.
Nature monument: smaller areas with the possibility to visit but where the focus is on the
protection of a specified natural or cultural-historic element.
Resource management area: areas with a particular emphasis on the management for
the sustainable use of natural species.
Protected landscape: public or private grounds, often occupied by people, where the
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resources are used, and the emphasis of preservation is on the quality of the environment
and the harmonious relationship between human habitation and the biological diversity.
(IUCN/CNPPA, 1990: World Conservation Monitoring Centre, UK)
Classification on Saba
The classification for Saba is limited to two categories: strict nature reserve and national park.
The specific (terrestrial) areas have are indicated on the attached map.
The Saba National Marine Park has sufficiently protected status through the Marine Environment
Ordinance and a series of international agreements that are enforced in the Netherlands Antilles.
The objective of the nature policy plan is to provide suitable protection for other nature areas
within a five-year spatial planning framework. The protection of these areas will be secured under
the terms of the island nature conservation ordinance. Additional agreements concerning land
use and management will be made with relevant landowners in special nature areas that require
some protection but which are privately owned. The agreements will be spelt out in a
management plan or a document with a comparable status.
Other areas not specifically indicated on the attached map, collectively provide sufficient space
for further economic and spatial development of the island although development management
as much as conservation remains a consideration to ensure that ecosystems are not fragmented
or destroyed. A development framework is as important as a framework for the protection of
unique and conservation worthy nature areas. Through the application of the principles of the
Nature Policy Plan more general scenic and nature values will be respected and integrated in
spatial planning and implementation measures. Regulations will also be incorporated for further
building possibilities. The 'Tourism Master Plan Saba' will serve as point of departure for spatial
planning and zoning.
Description of specific protected areas
Below the nature areas are described. It is important to recognize that inter-relationships exist
between nature values on land and sea, e.g. through the danger of erosion with possible
negative consequences on the marine environment.
i)
Strict Nature Reserve: Mount Scenery (Elfin Forest Reserve)
Description
Saba's character is significantly influenced by Mt. Scenery. The flanks of this ancient volcano are
home to an imposing number of ecosystems. At the top (between 825 and 870+ meters) there is
the Elfin Forest or cloud forest. This type of vegetation is quite exceptional, although it occupies a
limited area (approx. 8 hectares). The humidity of the air is always very high in this section and
the intensity of the light and temperature are low, compared to lower parts of the island. The
Mountain Mahogany is the dominant tree type (which makes the Elfin Forest unique) and the
branches are laden with moss and epiphytes (plants which grow on trees), primarily ferns but
also orchids.
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In the past, small-scale disturbances of natural habitats occurred through agricultural activities (in
the form of tannia and banana cultivation), the construction of the present path to the top of the
mountain and when building the antenna. The latter was a more significant disturbance.
Attention is drawn to the fact that the vegetation at the top has formed a thick water-absorbing
layer, where water is slowly passed through the ground to lower levels, to areas where agriculture
is more widely practiced and to the different villages. This 'sponge' has already been disrupted by
the construction of the antenna. Further clearing of vegetation will exacerbate this situation.
Below the Elfin Forest is the palm zone (775-825 meters) with little undergrowth, followed by the
tree fern zone. This vegetation is typically associated with secondary rainforest, which appears as
a result of the disappearance of the rain forest, particularly after the burning of natural vegetation.
Original tropical rainforest can be found mainly in a number of deep ravines that are too steep
and inaccessible for cultivation. In these locations, the tree “Bird’s Cherry” (Mycria citrifolia) is the
dominant species.
The stretch between 420 and 650 meters was originally rainforest vegetation, but a large portion
of this section has been deforested since colonization for the purpose of agriculture. With the
decline of agricultural activity in recent years, the secondary rainforest has been regenerated with
various typical rain forest species.
ii)
Saba National Park (North Coast - under formation)
On the northern side of the island, there has been very little human influence on the landscape.
Until approx. 50 years ago, agriculture was practiced on the more accessible sections of the
northern slopes of the island. Much of the natural vegetation has grown back since agricultural
activity has declined.
A road has never been constructed in this part of the island so the natural intrinsic state of the
area is still largely intact from the top of the mountain to the sea. The extraction of sulphur did
however occur on a section of the northern side where there are significant sulphur deposits.
Various networks of corridors are still present in the old sulphur mine and the mine has become a
popular attraction for visitors.
Some species of bats are found in the sulphur mine albeit on a limited scale. In 1997, Mrs Muriel
Thissel-Murphy, the heir to the sulphur mining property (43 ha), donated the property of the
former mining company to the Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF) under the condition that the
property forever remains a nature area. This land has been set aside by the SCF as the core
area of a national park.
To the east and west side of the island the solitary road winds through the island from the airport,
via Hell's Gate and Windwardside to the village of The Bottom. Above this road there are various
buildings, but in general the road functions as a border between the wooded hills on the upper
slopes and the lower lying slopes with more shrub-like and drier overgrowth.
Across the flanks of Mt. Scenery there are a number of old 'tracks' or trails that formerly provided
access to different parts of the mountain to agricultural pastures. Agricultural activity has declined
and is no longer extensively practiced on the higher elevations of the mountain. The tracks or
trails, have however been made accessible for the purpose of hiking tourism.
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The management of the nature trail network has been transferred to the Saba Conservation
Foundation. A number of new hiking trails have been established by the SCF with directional
signs and wayside exhibits at key locations of interest. The route to the top of Mt Scenery attracts
the most nature-oriented hikers although trails on the northern section of the island are also
growing in popularity because of their uninterrupted views of pure nature. Other routes around
the island are less known, but are very special and growing in popularity.
Legal/ Protective Status
Mt. Scenery does not at this moment have any legally protected status. The land on the mountain
is mostly privately owned, except for a few specific portions near the top that is owned by the
island government. There are many areas of undivided property in shared by multiple
landowners.
Due to the very exceptional nature values and the vegetation that has hardly been disturbed in
the Elfin Forest, the top of Mt. Scenery shall be legally protected as a strict nature reserve
(category i).
The surrounding areas on top of Mt. Scenery and the undisturbed part on the northern and
western flanks shall be designated as national park (category ii). See attached map for exact
locations.
Measures for protected nature areas
 The drafting of a spatial development framework for Saba, which includes legal protected
status for Mt. Scenery. In anticipation of this status, building on the hills shall also be
prevented by means of building ordinance, building codes or environmental zoning.
 The approval of the Island Nature Conservation Ordinance in which the Elfin Forest will be set
aside as a strict nature reserve (in formation) with the surrounding areas on top of Mt.
Scenery. The SCF land on the undisturbed northern side of the island will be set aside as a
Saba National Park (in formation) within the terms of the Island Nature Ordinance.
 Acquisition of the property of the Elfin Forest Nature Reserve and other areas within the
national park will be considered only when possibilities for this arise and which are deemed
desirable and/or necessary for sustainable conservation of the nature values. The Saba
Conservation Foundation will manage all nature areas in accordance with management plans.
 The Saba Conservation Foundation will consult with landowners and the public of Saba when
drafting management plans for all nature areas. The management plans should include the
possibilities and agreements for the management and/ or sustainable use of the natural
resources within the designated areas. Management plans should highlight activities that
enhance and promote nature values through education and awareness and nature-oriented
recreational activity, in particular the development of hiking trails.
 Executing agreements with private landowners about the management of unique natural
features on their respective properties.
 Regulating and reducing the number of goats roaming wild on the island, particularly in the
lower dryer sections of the island that are more prone to rapid erosion. Overgrazing by
livestock threatens the natural regeneration of vegetation and may lead to erosion
deforestation and flooding.
iii)
Saba National Marine Park (Category ii)
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Description
The Saba Marine Park has been identified as one of the few well-protected and well-managed
marine areas in the region and enjoys both regional and international recognition for its special
marine values and successful management approach.
The marine park protects the entire region around Saba and is comprised of the water and sea
bottom from the high waterline to a depth of 200 ft. (approx. 60 m). The area is of great
importance for marine conservation and constitutes an essential breeding ground for many
(including commercial) fish species, which can be found in the rich fishing grounds of the Saba
Bank. Moreover, research has indicated that dive and water tourism within the Marine Park
contribute greatly (directly and indirectly) to the economy of Saba. The excellent dive conditions
and well-managed dive facilities within the Marine Park determine to a large extent, the character
and the good reputation of the island as an exceptional dive destination.
The biological diversity of coral reefs is exceptionally large compared to the terrestrial-based
biodiversity that exist in the tropical rain forest. The reefs and coral communities in the Saba
Marine Park accommodate well over 30 coral species, about the maximum for the northeastern
part of the Lesser Antilles. The coral communities are the habitat for a large number of fish
species and invertebrates. The coral communities and sea grass fields are also important for the
various sea turtles species that live in the marine area.
The offshore pinnacles are frequented by various species of groupers, including the endangered
and locally extinct, Nassau Grouper, the Yellowfin Grouper, Tiger Grouper and various species of
sharks, rays and jacks.
The sea grass/algae area east of the harbour has, sadly, lost the greater part its value as a
feeding area for the Green Turtle due to the washing away of sediment from the nearby stone
crusher.
Status
The Saba National Marine Park is legally established within the terms of the Saba Marine
Environment Ordinance in 1987 and the management responsibility has been delegated to the
Saba Conservation Foundation.
A marine-use zoning has been applied and implemented within the park. The area is divided into
four zones: each where different sets of rules (or prohibitions) apply for fishing, diving, anchoring
or other use. The Marine Park management monitors all activities. A fee is levied for the use of
the park (harbour dues, dive and yacht fees), which is used to cover the operational costs of
managing the marine park. These fees help to sustain the marine park although fees fluctuate
with both tourist season and economic cycles, which creates financial uncertainty and insecurity.
Measures
The management of the Marine Park complies with the objectives of nature conservation and the
sustainable use of the marine resource for (dive) tourism. In addition, the following measures are
desirable and recommended:
16
 Limit or eliminate pollution and disturbance of the marine environment as a result of
development on land. The ‘stone crusher’, in particular causes much dust and wash off of
sediments into the sea, which constitutes a direct threat to the sea grass fields and the coral
reef.
 Increasing the involvement of Saba population by information, education and further
awareness of the significance of the Marine Park for Saba economy (particularly in the fields
of tourism and fishery)
 Developing further research regarding the reef, particularly in determining the social and
ecological support base and impacts of dive tourism.
iv)
Saba Bank (Category iv)
Description
The Saba Bank is a large, shallow area of sea to the south and southwest of Saba. The area is
2,200 km2 (maximum length and width are 65 x 40 km) The largest part of the bank has a depth
of between 20 and 50 m deep, but a considerable part (approx. 225 km2) is between 10-20m and
contains extensive coral reefs.
The Saba Bank constitutes the largest actively growing atoll in the Caribbean Sea, and probably
the third largest in the world. Extensive areas at the edge of the bank consist of healthy coral
reefs with a high biological wealth and a high production of commercially important fish and
shellfish species, such as Red snapper, spiny lobsters and conch.
The Saba Bank is important for a number of reasons:
 The Saba Bank constitutes a regionally unique and relatively untouched ecosystem
characterized by a high biological wealth and production.
 The Saba Bank is a breeding area for the Queen Triggerfish, Balistes vetula (called
‘Moonfish’ in Saba) and the Squirrelfish, Holocentrus ascensionis, all of which probably
originate from surrounding areas including the Saba Marine Park. The bank may also
contribute in turn as a source of fish and coral larvae for the coral reefs of the islands in the
region.
Since the last century the Saba Bank has constituted the most important fishing ground for Saba
fishermen. In the absence of rules and regulations, fishermen from neighbouring islands have
been fishing the Saba Bank intensively. Moreover, the intensive fishing of conch has led to the
decline of this species in part of the bank. In addition, the area is used by various oil tankers,
cargo ships and cruise ships as passage as well as for anchorage. The anchoring of ships has
caused extensive damage to the ecosystems of the bank.
Status
The Saba Bank falls under the jurisdiction of the Netherlands Antilles although a section of the
Bank is situated within the 12-mile zone of Saba. The Netherlands Antilles has declared an
exclusive fishing zone, which allows the Federal Government limited authority of up to 200
nautical miles outside the coast of each island, including the entire Saba Bank.
The Fishery Ordinance provides possibilities to regulate fishing although enforcing the regulation
is limited until the Coast Guard is operating at full strength. Moreover, issuing licenses and
17
determining quotas and other regulatory measures is hampered by the lack of basic data
regarding stocks and catch.
Recently, a fish stock assessment project was initiated by the Central Government to collect
more fishery data. The recommendations of this study were to prohibit the further issuance of
fishing licenses and to strictly enforce the existing regulations. As a result of this study, the Coast
Guard has improved their surveillance of the area.
Fishing activity on the Saba Bank is concentrated on lobsters. There appears to be sustainable
number of lobster stocks although the present quotas should not be increased. The central
government is now preparing further management recommendations for the fisheries. The Saba
Fishery Ordinance will need to be revised in order to implement these management
recommendations. The data collection from the fishery should be continued by the Saba
government in order to monitor stocks on a long-term basis and to enable sustainable
management and well considered decision making of Saba’s marine resources.
Measures
 Collect further data and conduct monitoring for the benefit of informing the management plan
or ‘master plan’, including data on fishing activities, shipping and the scope of ecological
value of coral reefs.
 Draft a management plan or master plan for the sustainable use and active management of
the natural resources of the Saba Bank in collaboration with all stakeholders. Given the
present jurisdiction of the Saba Bank, the initiative will need to be under taken by the
Netherlands Antilles government in close consultation with the Saba fishing sector (nearest
island and greatest original users) and the Marine Park management.
 Support an effectively operating Coast Guard in the area with information on legislation and
regulations. (E.g. CITES, revised fishery regulations, etc.)
4. Species protection
General
The best protection of species is the protection of their habitat, living environment and feeding
territories. This type of protection and the required management measures in place as described
in the previous chapters, most species on Saba will have a better chance of continued existence.
 Apart from territorial protection, species protection will also need to be regulated through
legislation. This will be incorporated in a future island ordinance on Nature Conservation
emanating from the national federal decree “Grondslagen Natuurbeheer”. Recently the
Island Government of Saba passed the Ordinance on ….. Exotic Species 2000??????? (fill
in)
Four criteria are used to identify species that are in need of legal protection:
1. Desired protection based on international treaties (e.g. CITES, Bonn Convention, SPAW
Protocol, Inter-American Sea Turtle Convention, etc.)
2. Endemism
3. Species that are locally or regionally rare or endangered
18
4. Threat of exploitation.
Ad 1. Based on criterion 1, all species of orchids, bromeliads and cacti must be protected as well
as all species of corals and sea turtles. Protection is also necessary for the Green Iguana and the
Queen conch.
In addition, a number of sea birds found in and near Saba are mentioned in the appendices of
CITES. However, the breeding grounds and resting areas of sea birds has drastically been
decreased regionally as a result of coastal development, therefore the protection of all sea birds
is recommended under this criterion and criterion 3.
Ad 2. Based on criterion 2, the Saba Lizard (Anolis Sabanus) and an endemic bat list for Saba
which now stands at seven species, should be protected.
1) Jamaican Fruit Bat Artibeus jamaicensis
2) Tree Bat Ardops nichollsi
3) Lesser Antillean Fruit Bat Brachyphylla cavernarum
4) Long-tongued Bat Monophyllus plethodon
5) Velvety Free-tailed Bat Molossus mollussus
6) Brazilian Free-tailed Bat Tadarida brasiliensis
7) Funnel-eared Bat Natalus stramineus
Ad 3. Based on criterion 3, the following species will be protected: Trembler, Bridled Quail Dove,
Red-necked Pigeon, Antillean crested Hummingbird, Purple-throated Carib, Green-throated
Carib, American Kestrel, Red-tailed hawk, all species of sea birds and the Racer snake.
Ad 4. Based on criterion 4, the Green Iguana and the Land crab must be protected.
A number of the aforementioned species and groups will be dealt with more in depth:
 Corals are effectively protected by the Saba Marine Environment Ordinance 1987.
 The feeding area of sea turtles is also protected through this ordinance but a limited catch is
still permitted. Additional restrictions of catch, trade and possession need to be put in place.
The upgrade of the Saba Marine Park to National Park status institutes these additional
measures.
 Orchids, bromeliads and cacti are popular with private and commercial collectors and
collecting and exporting to the other islands of the Netherlands Antilles must be controlled via
legislation. In particular, further inventory research for orchids is necessary. Basic research
has already indicated that various species not described in literature exist on Saba.
 The Green Iguana: the original iguana in the Lesser Antilles is the Iguana delicatissima. The
places where the Green Iguana is imported, it seems that the imported species gradually
expel the original endemic species, especially since sterile hybrids evolve over time and do
not reproduce. Research is needed to ascertain whether the Iguana delicatissima is also
found on Saba. The Green Iguana is also poached for delicate cuisine on some islands.
Poaching of Iguanas must be curbed and severe penalties or fines imposed.
 Queen conch: a relatively small population is present on Saba (with the largest density just
east of Fort Bay). This species has decreased as a result of the habitat disturbance and
reduction through the activities of the stone crusher. The conch population on the Saba Bank
is assumed to be considerable although its trade must be strictly controlled.
19
 Birds: fish hawk, American Kestrel and Red-Tail Hawk appear on the CITES list. Specific
protection is required for the breeding places of the Audubon’s Shearwater, Tropicbirds and
the other sea birds on Green Island and Diamond Rock (vide Carmabi Report). Preliminary
research has indicated that Saba may have the largest nesting ground of the Red-billed
Tropic bird in the Caribbean area. A number of other species, including inter alia Trembler,
Bridled Quail Dove, Red-necked Pigeon, American Kestrel and Red-Tail Hawk have seriously
decreased on a regional scale or are even endangered.
 Lizard: although the endemic Anolis sabanus is very common on Saba, this species deserves
protection as an endemic species, which is often targeted for commercial trade. There are
some indications that foreign collectors annually export an unknown number of specimens of
this species.
 The Racer snake Alsophis rufiventris is considered to be extinct in St. Kitts and Nevis,
according to recent research. This species is now only found in St. Eustatius and Saba. The
extinction of this species was mainly caused by the mongoose, which was imported to many
islands during early colonial days. Saba could well become the refuge for the Racer Snake,
since the mongoose does not exist on Saba. Consequently, the species must be protected
and the import of alien species especially the mongoose must be prohibited.
 The Land crab is has in recent years been poached for commercial export purposes in large
numbers. The growth in tourism especially in St. Maarten where Land Crab is consumed
threatens to deplete the numbers of Land Crabs. Accurate data on catch and population is
needed in order to establish an export quota and regulations.
5. Nature policy: correlation with other activities and management
agencies
It is essential to the implementation of the nature policy plan, that public awareness and
knowledge of nature and its special roles for the island, is increased both in citizens and
management agencies.
Enhancement of nature values in education and environmental awareness is very important and
should be coupled with an intensive integration of nature conservation principles within other
sectors (particularly tourism, fishery, mineral extraction and public works). All these agencies
Have an important role to play in the implementation of nature protection policy.
Tourism
Tourism constitutes one of the most important economic sectors on the island and is significantly
based on nature and scenic values in and around the island: the tranquillity and the natural
beauty of Mt. Scenery and the splendid coral reefs in the sea.
Nature conservation and tourism development are consequently inextricably related. All these
activities are the collective responsibility of the government, the tourism industry, the Saba
Conservation Foundation and all the citizens.
In the Tourism Master Plan, the government (in collaboration with the population) has clearly
formulated the connection and the importance of sustainable tourism development as a basis for
the future economic development of the island.
20
The objective of tourist development is to aim for an ecologically responsible use of natural
resources via nature friendly and nature-oriented forms of land and sea activities. The take-up or
new development of land should be limited and instead focus on existing small-scale stay-over
tourist accommodations to enable tourists to experience nature through well managed diving
facilities, hiking trails, information brochures and information panels, etc.
The tourism sector must play a role in promoting sustainable forms of tourism and provide
information to tourists, the local population and the government on nature-oriented tourism and
behaviour. The tourism sector should endeavour to promote ecologically and environmentallyfriendly principles, in order to minimize the impact on the environment (e.g. waste), and the
landscape (via architecturally unsuitable edifices or buildings in valuable scenic locations). The
tourist sector also has a responsibility to ensure that the island remains attractive and competitive
to tourists in the long run.
Fishery
Fishing has always been a vital activity on Saba and a key element of the local economy. Several
fishermen operate from Saba, mainly with small boats, and mainly on the Saba Bank.
The Saba Marine Park situated directly around Saba, is an important breeding ground for many
commercial fish species. With the establishment of the park, the possibility of fishing directly
around Saba has been eliminated since fishing is prohibited within the Marine Park. However, the
Saba Bank presents great and abundant opportunities for small local fisherman from Saba.
With reference to the provisions for nature-protected areas outlined in chapter 4, the drafting of a
management plan/master plan for fishing on the Saba Bank is urgently needed and should be
drafted in collaboration with the fishing sector. To this end, further research into the numbers of
commercially exploited marine species is necessary and further regulations need to be enforced
to prevent the depletion of stocks.
Mineral extraction/Excavation
The result of unstructured extraction of surface minerals such as sand, rock and gravel are very
diverse. In Saba, excavation of stone and sand by the stone crusher near the Fort Bay is the
cause for much pollution from dust and noise. This activity has made deep scars in the landscape
for the purpose of individual private profit.
Dust and grit are transported by the wind and the rain into the sea, where they directly threaten
the corals and sea grass beds; the latter serving as feeding areas for sea turtles. The sea grass
area in front of the coast near the stone crusher has already disappeared.
Moreover, dust causes inconvenience for tourists who disembark near Fort Bay as well as for the
other activities in the harbour. If the stone-crushing activities continue, costs and benefits need to
be debated publicly and environmental impact assessment conducted. The Island Administration
should also ensure that, within the framework of permit restrictions, necessary additional
measures are taken to inhibit negative effects on the environment and the landscape.
With regards to the extraction of minerals/excavations, no further permits will be issued, without a
detailed environment impact report on all the consequences that may arise from a proposed
development.
21
Public Works
An integrated approach to all new infrastructure development should be adopted based on the
principles of sustainable nature management and development:
 The collection, processing and disposal of solid waste should be improved (including waste
separation, recycling, and reduction of amount of waste),
 Regulating building and infrastructure development (including building guidelines or
improvement to roads), require direct attuning and integration with the nature policy.
 The formulation of spatial planning policy and a zoning plan constitute a necessary part of
development management. Within government the areas of environment, nature and spatial
planning should be integrated as much as possible within one organizational unit in order to
guarantee optimal decision-making.
Public participation, education and awareness
By and large, the population of Saba do appreciate the value of nature for the ambience, health
and economy of the island. For several generations, local residents have managed the
environment in a sustainable manner, which has contributed to securing the reputation of Saba
as the “Unspoiled queen”. There is however, still significant numbers of the local population that
do not appreciate the value of nature or acknowledge the unique character of nature, the
environment, the cultural history the natural processes (like the regulation of the water balance,
possibilities for agriculture, and so on), or the great economic value it has for the island.
There is significant scope for public education and awareness in order to gain support for
sustainable development, resource use and the need for nature policy. Enhancement of this
knowledge and awareness is an essential step towards creating support within the community as
well as within various government services of Saba.
More emphasis should be made on natural values through formal education as well as through
public campaigns and informational media. Additional elements of public awareness and
education are:
 Targeted information about projects and (implementation) activities to keep the public abreast
of the various developments through a variety of media.
 Involving the population (and where possible also tourists) directly or via representing
agencies in the further planning and implementation of the nature policy.
 Nature and environmental education is of great importance in order to involve the younger
generation in the conservation of nature and the environment too.
6. Implementation Program
6.1. What has been achieved after the planning phase
At the end of the planning phase, the implementation of measures indicated in previous chapters
should be completed. By this stage, a long-term implementation program should be drafted
outlining future actions, tasks and responsibilities of all relevant stakeholders. The purpose of the
long-term plan is to secure the basis for nature protection and management within the framework
of a development plan. The measure that should be implemented must include:
22
 The areas on the attached map set aside as legally protected and managed in a professional
and transparent manner, either by a management organization, or by the various private
owners in conformity with the management plans.
 The biological diversity in and around the island sufficiently protected; populations of
vulnerable species replenished to sustainable and unthreatened numbers;
 Nature conservation, including legislation and regulation, enjoys the support of the community
in the broadest sense and depend on the island government and the private sector for full
support of nature protection endeavours.
 There is sufficient capacity, expertise and means available on a continuous basis within both
the government and the private sector to consolidate the objectives achieved; there is a clear
cut division of tasks and competencies between the agencies involved;
 The tourist image of the island of Saba as the ‘Unspoiled Queen’ has been further
strengthened and offers a sustainable economic basis for the island.
6.2. Responsibilities of relevant agencies
The realization of the objective of this Nature Policy Plan is a collective responsibility of
government, NGOs, the business sector, research, citizens and tourists and the implementation
demands a considerable effort of all these actors.
Within the government, further capacity and expertise must be built around knowledge/
awareness of the natural environment and to integrate this with expertise in the area of
environment and spatial planning. This includes operational and financial agreements with the
Saba Conservation Foundation as appropriate to securing their capacity to perform nature
management functions of the various protected areas and natural features.
The present management structure of the Marine Park (generating revenue from managing the
Park itself) is satisfactory and should be continued although it is dependent on the health of
tourism to the island. The management of Mt. Scenery and the trail system should include the
exploration of income generation and marketing opportunities that can sustain operational
demands associated with ensuring a well-maintained tourism product. The SCF should continue
to promote its services and its organisation through (inter alia) directories, brochures and the sale
of souvenirs and promotional products.
Where possible, strategically located land should be acquired, in consultation with landowners
and government, for the protection of special and unique nature areas and features. Alternatively,
management agreements may be made with landowners, which will also be done in close
consultation with the various stakeholders.
Funds to support all nature management initiatives and strategies should come from various
sources including local, central government, international donor organisations and private sector.
Funding for nature management should also be integrated into a larger approach to financing
nature management for whole of the Netherlands Antilles and the Kingdom. It is very necessary
that the Kingdom government recognise the uniqueness of the natural resources of the Antilles
and invest in its sustainability in the spirit of Agenda 21.
From the various sources, projects for the implementation of this nature policy plan may be
supported, including the acquisition of key parcels of privately owned land. The feasibility of a
23
green Trust Fund is also being explored. This fund will be managed by a Trust, in which nature
management organisations will be represented. In addition, there are possibilities to be
considered for financial support for initiatives based on the ‘policy paper “Contours of Nature and
Environmental Policy in the Netherlands Antilles” by VOMIL.
There is a growing involvement and input for nature and environmental conservation by the
(tourism) business sector. The sector will be able to play an important role in supplying
information to tourists and in the further expansion of ecological and environmentally friendly
principles within hotels, restaurants, shops, etc.
Research that contributes to solving practical problems and necessary interventions should be
encouraged and stimulated. Carmabi has carried out a general survey and inventory of the plant
and animal life on all the islands. Additional population research will however be necessary to get
a closer insight into exact measures needed for the protection and management of various
species. This particularly holds true for population research of the Land crab, Iguana, Racer
snake, bats, and the stocks of fish, conch and lobsters on the Saba Bank.
Finally, both citizens and tourists, either directly or via representing agencies, should be involved
with the implementation of the plan or the compliance to the plan’s provisions. The involvement of
NGOs and social partners should be supported.
6.3. Overview of Actions
All actions that are necessary for the implementation of the policy plan are categorised according
to instruments and relevant actor(s) who serve as the implementing agencies. Below, the actions
mentioned in the previous chapters have been categorized according to the type of instrument to
be applied. It is also indicated who is responsible for the execution, in what year the action should
be implemented and an estimated cost associated with the action although not all the costs are
evident at this stage.
24
Action
Institutionalisation
I.1 regular implementation & consultation
Initiator
Year
-
-
P 1)
Island Government
20022007
-
External (Fd. DOEN,
Nature Trust)
Island Gov. 3)
NGOs
Exco, SCF,
VOMIL
Exco, social
partners
Exco/Planning
bureau
Exco/ Planning
bureau
Exco/ Planning
bureau
Exco/SCF
Exco/SCF
2004
P
i.c.w VOMIL, LNV
20022007
20022007
20022007
20022007
2004
2004
P
Exco/SCF
2004
Exco/SCF
2004
Exco/SCF/
owners
Exco/SCF
20022007
20022007
p.m
Exco/SCF/owner
s
VOMIL (NA) et
al.
20022007
20022007
p.m.
Management – measures re: areas
V.1 interaction of expertise and training of
managers
SCF
20022007
p.m.
V2. Regulation/reduction amount of goats
Exco/ Police
p.m.
V3. Regulation mineral extraction/excavations
Exco/Planning
bureau
20022007
20022007
LNV, WNF, CZMC,
KABNA 2) Nature Trust
Fund
KABNA 2)
P
Exco
2002/3
p.m.
stone crusher,
2002/3
P
various parties
I.2.extra person power/coordination with
government (clear contact person for
environment, nature and spatial planning)
I.3 expansion of management agency SCF
I.4 stimulate setting up and membership NGOs
Judicial/ Legislative
II.1 drafting draft-island ordinance nature
II.2 legislation spatial planning and drafting
island development plan
II.3 drafting and implementation building
directive in anticipation of Spatial Planning
II.4 stimulate institution of legislation
II.5 working out compensation criteria and
anchoring issuance of licenses
II.6 Institution of Elfin Forest Reserve
II.7 institution Saba National Park
Ownership and/or management
III.1 acquisition ownership in Elfin Nature
Reserve
III.2 acquisition Sulfur Mining Co. ownership
(institution Saba National Park)
III.3 management transfer to SCF of
government Lands Nature Reserve
III.5 improvement and conservation nature trails
Management – Planning
IV.1 management plan Elfin Forest Reserve
and Saba NP
IV.2 management plan/master plan Saba Bank
(vide also research)
Maintenance
VI.1 driving back pollution/nuisance ‘stone
crusher’
VI.2 maintenance terr. protection (incl. Saba
Bank)
ExCo, SCF,
planning bureau
Exco
20022007
20022007
SCF
20022007
SCF
Amount
NAf
Exco/stone
crusher
Coast Guard,
Marine Park,
SCF, Police,
P
P
P
P
300.000
Fd. DOEN
External, KABNA 2)
Fd. DOEN? Social Safety
Net?
Nature Trust Fund
Kabna 2)
LNV
125.000 Kabna
25
VI.3 training CITES enforcers
VI.4 active implementation CITES and
Legislation species protection
Research
VII.1. Ecological research support dive tourism
VII.2 further research fishery, shipping, and
ecology Saba Bank (vide also management
planning)
VII.3 population research Land crab, iguana
Information and education
VIII.1 attracting collaborator environmental
education and set-up program
VIII.2 curricula for schools incl. Excursions
VIII.3 involve population in MP and other NPs
incl. significance for Saba.
VIII.4 supplying information to tourists
VOMIL, LNV
VOMIL, LNV
20022007
20022007
10.000? VOMIL, LNV, BC, WNF
SCF/Marine Park
ongoing
pm
LVV, RIKZ, LNV
2004 -
SCF, VOMIL3), NGO
donors
see IV.2 KABNA, VOMIL
SCF, Carmabi,
UVA
2004 -
p.m.
Carmabi, UVA, NGO
donors
SCF
20022007
20022007
20022007
20022007
20022007
p.m
Kabna, VOMIL, WNF
p.m.
Kabna, VOMIL, WNF
p.m
Kabna, VOMIL
p.m
Tourism sector, SCF
p.m.
Tourism industry, SBA,
UNA, MINA Fund, social
partners
2006/7
P
Exco, SCF,
Coast Guard,
Customs
SCF
Marine Park
VIII.5 reduction waste traditional architecture
environmentally friendly principles with
economic activities
Tourism sector,
SCF.
Tourism sector,
SCF, UNA,
business sector
Evaluation
IX.1 evaluation nature policy plan
all actors
1)
2)
3)
P
Exco, Coast Guard,
Customs
P=based on input of personnel
It is proposed to submit together with VOMIL and the other islands, a proposal for the management planning of all
relevant areas of the Netherlands Antilles and to solve bottlenecks that appear only once.
Also from revenues from entrance fees and users fees of National Parks.
Abbreviations
CITES
SCF
LNV
BC/ ExCo
VOMIL
CZMC
UVA
St. DOEN
UNA
MINA Fund
KNAP Fund
SPAW
Convention on Trade in Endangered Species
Saba Conservation Foundation
Ministry of Agriculture, Nature Conservation and Fishery, Holland
Executive Council
Department of Public and Environmental Hygiene of the N.A.
Coastal Zone Management Centre
University of Amsterdam
Foundation Sustainable Development and Nature Conservation
(Postal Code Lottery)
University Netherlands Antilles
(Chair for Environment and Development, Technical Faculty)
Fund for Environmental Projects in the N.A.
Fund for Small-scale Nature Projects in the N.A.
Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife
7. Bibliography
26
Contouren van het Milieu-en Natuurbeleid Nederlandse Antillen, Departement van
Volksgezondheid en Milieuhygiene, Sectie Milieu en Natuur, sept. 1996
Towards sustainable management of the Saba Bank, KNAP project 96-3, AIDEnvironment,
Amsterdam 1996
Guide to Saba Marine Park, Tom van ‘t Hof, Saba, 1991
Biologische inventarisatie van Saba. KNAP project 96-10. Stichting Carmabi, november 1997.
Saba, Integrated Tourism Development Master Plan. Draft, December 1996. Tourism Planning
and Research Associates, London, in association with John Robinson Planning and
Design.
Strategic Development Plan of Saba, 1996-2000. November 1995.
Integration Economic, Environmental and Social Issues in an Evaluation of Saba Marine Park. L.
Fernandes, East-West Centre, Hawaii.
The Value of Nature Protection. Economic Analysis of the Saba Marine Park. Summary for the
Government of Saba. Draft, September 1995. R.Framhein.
Red-bellied Racer Conservation Project. Project Report no. 1 Conservation Status of the Redbellied Racer Racer, Alsophis rufiventris. Findings of the Preparatory Visit (March 1997).
J.C. Daltry, M.L. Day, and N. Ford. Fauna & Flora International.
Red-bellied Tropicbird Paethon aethereus mesonauta. Martha Walsh-McGhee. Paper presented
at the 10th annual meeting of the Society of Caribbean Omithology, Aruba, July 31-August
7, 1997.
Saba Trails Reconstruction Report. Designs, Specifications, Cost Estimates. Prepared for the
Saba Conservation Foundation, Saba, Netherlands Antilles. B. Hamberg & R. Wetherell,
USDA Forest Service, Tongass national Forest, USA. October 1997.
Saba Trail System Report. Inventory, analysis and recommendations for the development of
Saba’s Trail system. Prepared for the Saba Conservation Foundation, Saba. Netherlands
Antilles. B. Hamberg. USDA Forest Service, Tongass National Forest, Sitka, Alaska, USA.
September 1996.
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