In order to sensitize staff (and our families) on key conservation areas across the country, the EPPD has begun a series of voluntary field exercises for the year. This step towards improving awareness aligns favourably with the recent approval of the National Forest and National Protected Areas Policies in 2011.
An educational trip to the Aripo Savannas was the first of these field exercises, which tested the resolve of those among us for it was a terribly cold, rainy day. The Aripo Savannas are 10 interlinked savannas, that are home to many endemic species (unique native species) of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a botanist's dream, and the landscapes and rare orchid species present there are simply spectacular. The Aripo Savannas is a Strict Nature Reserve and was designated as an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) in 2007 under the ESA Rules, 2001.
During our expedition, we were fortunate enough to have with us Dr Howard Nelson (UWI) and Mr Carlisle McMillan (T&T Orchid Society) who demonstrated their survey methodology of the rare ground orchid Cyrtopodium parviflorum, in Savanna 5. We also marvelled at a few strange looking plants, such as the insectivorous Sundew, which is like a Venus flytrap. Our guide from the Forestry Division, Mr Edmund Charles also provided valuable input on the sights and species along the way.
Persons wishing to visit Aripo Savannas must first contact the National Parks Unit (645-1203) of the Forestry Division to obtain a permit.
A discussion on survey methodology.
L-R: Dr Howard Nelson (UWI), Mr Carlisle McMillan (T&T Orchid Society), Dr David
Persaud (EPPD), Dr Floyd Homer (EPPD)
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