Restoring Hope: CBEMR’s Role in Post-Hurricane Recovery

Mangroves play a crucial role in the Bahamas, protecting coastlines from erosion, acting as natural buffers against storms, and serving as vital habitats for marine species that support local fisheries and tourism. However, in 2019, Hurricane Dorian devastated Grand Bahama, destroying over 70% of the island’s mangrove forests. To support restoration efforts, Waterkeepers Bahamas, Earthcare Bahamas, and Mangrove Action Project conducted comprehensive training for local community associations, NGOs and funders, focusing on the Community-Based Ecological Mangrove Restoration (CBEMR) approach

The four-day workshop, held at the Rand Nature Centre on Grand Bahama and funded by the Bahamas Protected Areas Fund (BPAF), covered essential topics such as mangrove biology, biodiversity, structure, hydrology, and socio-economic considerations for restoration.

The 28 participants learned how to measure essential bio-physical parameters and set effective project objectives in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. A key highlight was a field trip to different mangrove sites, allowing attendees to examine areas that survived or were recovering from Hurricane Dorian, observe different mangrove features, and evaluate site suitability for restoration activities.

The workshop created a platform for sharing experiences, including successes, challenges, and lessons learned from local and international mangrove restoration efforts. Equipped with the insights and practical knowledge gained on this course,  participants are now better prepared to refine their strategies and improve restoration outcomes across the region.