Welcome to the Forestry Department of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

The protection of forest and other natural resources in St. Vincent and the Grenadines was established by one of the first environmental legislations ever proclaimed in the Caribbean, the King’s Hill Enclosure Act of 1791, and has continued to grow in importance as this 32-island nation increases in population and diverse demands for land.

Over these 200 plus years, the government and people of this nation have established several forest reserves and protected areas in efforts of reducing the constant pressure of land encroachment, the threat of deforestation affecting water supply, wildlife habitation, and timber supply, and the ecological and economic implications of coastal and marine resources. Beyond these essentials, forest resources are also being recognized for its recreational and aesthetic uses in crafts, horticulture, and medicines.

Thus, our approach to forest management is not aimed at keeping the people out of the forest, but must be geared to involving the people in its management and protection.