The Mauby plant (Colubrina arborescens) has been grown and harvested for its bark in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for a number of years. Its bark has been used in the preparation of a local drink and thus is sold in the local market.

The Mauby plant is notably grown in the central to north leeward area of St. Vincent. The north leeward area has been identified as an area in need of alternative livelihood projects as this area is known for its high production of illegal crops and the deforestation of hillsides in critical watersheds used for hydroelectricity power generation, domestic water use and river water recreational uses.

This project will reforest these fire prone lands with mauby, thus protecting the soils and providing a viable alternative to the deforestation of critical watershed areas for the cultivation of illegal crops. The planning grant will be utilised to develop a viable Mauby project which will be include the planting and management, and harvesting of suitable mauby plants for the existing market

The following activities will be undertaken to develop a viable project:

? In depth research to determine the current stock and distribution of Mauby Trees in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG); documentation OF the local method in use to debark the trees;

? Identification of the present source of Mauby Bark in SVG; and review and develop relationships with organisations in the Caribbean undertaking similar research;

? Meetings with stakeholders and a workshop for farmers and other interested parties;

? Preparation of business plan; and

? Drafting and finalising a project proposal for a GEF SGP Full Grant.