Research

Biological research has been carried out in Matura National Park since 2005, by the Department of Life Sciences of the University of the West Indies, in participation with Forestry Division personnel, the Matura National Park Stakeholder Management Committee and members of local communities. Research has been funded by the Environmental Management Authority, BP Trinidad & Tobago and the University of the West Indies.

From 2005 to 2007, a baseline vegetation survey was carried out, alongside a study of how local communities and other people make use of the park, the forest and the natural resources within it. At the same time a GIS database was developed for the park and surrounding area, containing layers of data on relief, geology, soils, vegetation, roads, villages, park boundaries, resource uses, vegetation survey plot sites and location of endemic plant species. All research provides managers and stakeholders with scientific information needed to plan the management of the park

Vegetation Survey

This research project focused on the vegetation of Matura National Park as well as the use local communities and outsiders make of the park and the forest and natural resources within it. This was done in participation with Forestry Division personnel and members of local communities. This research provides managers and stakeholders with scientific information on species and ecosystems needed to plan the management of the park. Data is handed over to stakeholders in appropriate formats.

Avifaunal Survey

This study was geared to provide forest managers with applicable baseline information on the avifauna of the site. Our results were discussed from the perspective of guiding the ESA’s management team in future conservation efforts. Findings were sent to Managers and Representatives from the Matura National Park Stakeholder Management Committee, and the University of the West Indies.

A poster was prepared and presented at the 18th Regional Meeting of the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds, Grand Bahama, July 2011.