The Negril Environmental Protection Area (EPA) located on the western tip of Jamaica, is uniquely comprised of five ecologically important regions:, the Great Negril Morass, the Negril Marine Park, the Long Bay to Bloody Bay Beach, the Fish River Hills and the Negril Hills.

These fragile and interdependent ecosystems continue to deteriorate as a result of increased anthropogenic pressure from the expanding tourism industry and population growth combined with the occurrence of natural disasters.

The Fish River Hills is a fertile Lower Montane Forest (TNC, 1991) located on the eastern boundary of the Negril EPA. It is an integral component of the South Negril -Orange River and Lucea watersheds as it a primary aquifer recharge area for the Negril and Lucea towns as well as the Great Negril Morass.

An estimated 10 million gallons of water are pumped daily from the Fish River and Logwood Blue Holes for use in the surrounding communities and sections of the Negril town with an estimated population 5,000 persons(2000)*. The future of the Fish River Hills is severely compromised due to extensive deforestation through the removal of hardwood lumber used for charcoal and to supply the active wood craft industry.

Significant portions of the forested areas within the Fish River Hills have also been removed to provide land space for the farming of agricultural crops. A socio-economic assessment (SEA) conducted in 2001 revealed that 49.1% of respondents within six major communities of the Fish River Hills rely on the use of timber or other forest resources such as bush medicines, and fruits.

Eighteen percent (18%) of the respondents admitted to the use of the lumber for charcoal burning.

According to preliminary studies conducted in 2001, the conversion of the limestone forest particularly in the Fish River Hills results in the complete removal of the trees or in a reduction in stem density and canopy volume. Alteration of this delicate recharge area consequently affects the quantity and quality of the water available, with the potential for significant impacts on the local health and liveability (EPP, 1997).

Additionally, there is considerable evidence to indicate that vegetation structure and habitat is related to the inhabitant bird species diversity. This rapid and uncontrolled conversion of the forest can significantly reduce bird habitat diversity.

In addressing the severe degradation of forested areas in Jamaica, the primary goal of this project is to establish an integrated forest management program within the Fish River Hills through community empowerment and collaboration. The primary objectives of the project include:

? Reforestation of heavily deforested areas within four key communities in the Fish River Hills
? Reestablishment of organized farming group within the target communities to ensure on-going project sustainability
? On-site training workshops for farming groups to improve current farming practices and demonstrate alternative livelihood options(hydroponics) ?will involve co-partnerships with the Jamaica Agricultural Service & Rural Agricultural Development Authority(RADA) extension service
? Sustainable silviculture projects identified that will be managed and operated by the established community based organization(CBO)
? Education and awareness campaign on the significance of the Fish River Hills in the management of the entire Negril Environmental Protection Area