Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary owner Anthony Da Silva says teamwork with the government is key to protecting Barbados’ largest wetland, but admits more must be done to safeguard the fragile ecosystem.
His comments come after environmentalists, including marine biologist Professor Robin Mahon and Land Conservancy Barbados, raised alarms about threats to the broader Graeme Hall wetland.
While the sanctuary itself is thriving so far, the surrounding swamp, of which the sanctuary makes up 38 per cent, faces risks from pollution, development runoff and years of isolation from the sea.
Da Silva told Barbados TODAY that his team has long worked with officials but stressed the need for stronger collaboration to prevent further harm.
“We didn’t have to wait to reopen Graeme Hall to be in contact with the government. That relationship has been in place even before I attempted to acquire the site,” he said. “There are already discussions happening about how we preserve this space, how we develop it for the benefit of the country, not just for tourists but for Barbadians.”
Though careful not to assign blame, Da Silva acknowledged that activities on nearby government-owned lands could impact the sanctuary’s recovery.
“There is always room for improvement,” he said. “We would like to be a partner with the government on how we find a solution… to prevent any situation where what happens on adjoining lands could affect what we have here.”
Since reopening after a 16-year closure, the 35-acre sanctuary has drawn crowds with its walking trails, wildlife exhibits and educational programmes. Families, students and tourists have flocked to the space, which also features a café and guided tours.
“Some people come and just relax, and they are welcome,” Da Silva said. “But there are those who want more activity, and we have to find ways of adding to the attraction.”
Planned upgrades include expanded mangrove trails, swamp lake tours and more school partnerships. “We are already inviting schools in, and they’re participating,” he noted. “This isn’t just a tourist attraction. It’s a space where all Barbadians can feel comfortable.”
The sanctuary is also collaborating with the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) and other stakeholders on new initiatives. It is also in line to benefit from the TDC’s Make Change programme, which funds community-driven projects.
Still, Da Silva emphasised that the sanctuary’s revival is just the beginning.
“The primary objective was to reopen Graeme Hall. We’ve achieved that,” he said. “Now we have to go to the next stage… and get all collaborators on board to help.” (SM)
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