Jamaica Environment Trust

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Save the Jamaican Blackbird

In June 2024, the Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) received funding from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) to carry out the project Implementing The Jamaican Blackbird Conservation Action Plan in the Blue and John Crow Mountains KBA, Jamaica, the project is scheduled to run until May 2026. This project aims to protect the endangered Jamaican Blackbird (Nesopsar nigerrimus) by promoting sustainable forest conservation and supporting local communities in biodiversity-friendly farming practices. The Blackbird, a unique species found only in Jamaica, faces critical threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion, making targeted conservation efforts essential for its survival.

Key activities of the project include engaging local coffee-farming communities, Pennlyne Castle, Content Gap, and Cascade, to adopt biodiversity- and bird-friendly agricultural practices. Training sessions will be held to support these communities in sustainable shade-grown coffee cultivation, encouraging farming practices that protect native tree species and the Blackbird’s natural habitat. This collaboration aims to enhance local farming practices while preserving critical ecosystems, reducing deforestation, and supporting the health of the Blue and John Crow Mountains’ biodiverse environment.A cornerstone of the project is community outreach and awareness-raising. Through a series of “BioBlitz” events, JET will work with community members, youth, and rangers to monitor and document local biodiversity. These events will allow participants to learn about the Blackbird and the broader ecological value of their environment, fostering a sense of pride and stewardship in preserving Jamaica’s natural heritage. Additionally, JET will launch a media campaign to build public awareness on the importance of the Jamaican Blackbird and its habitat, encouraging public and community support for forest conservation efforts.

As a requirement, JET prepared a grievance mechanism which can be found here. This grievance mechanism was put in place to formally receive, record and address complaints. Anyone with a concern about any aspect of the project can make a report so we can improve the way we work.

If you would like to support or learn more about this project, please contact us at jamaicaenvironmenttrust@gmail.com.
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