World Parks Haiti is actively working in Capotille, Bas-Fort, to help make Haiti green again. This area, located in the eastern part of Capotille near the border of the Dominican Republic, has long been abandoned and devastated due to free grazing and erosion. Our goal is to create a municipal park in this region, restoring its natural beauty and ecological balance.
To bring this vision to life, World Parks Haiti has launched extensive reforestation activities in this block, aiming to plant 50 hectares of trees around Bas-Fort and the Cana River. A variety of tree species will be planted to enhance the landscape near the Dominican border.
Establishing a Nursery for Sustainable Growth
To ensure the success of this project, World Parks Haiti has started by building a tree nursery. This nursery serves as a foundation for our planting efforts and provides meaningful activities such as:
– Filling bags with soil for seed planting
– Transporting trees to designated planting areas
These activities also generate economic benefits for members of the Capotille community, aligning with one of our project’s core objectives.
Reforestation Efforts and Milestones
On May 1, 2024, World Parks Haiti planted 2,100 trees in the Bas-Fort area. Later, on November 2, 2024, another 1,000 trees were planted in Plot Three, as indicated on the project execution map. These accomplishments were made possible through collaboration with local authorities, grassroots organizations, and active participation from community schools.
Engaging the Community and Promoting Inclusivity
Students enthusiastically joined the planting activities, taking photos before beginning their work in Bas-Fort. Our project upholds the principle of equality, ensuring that women and children of all ages play an active role in environmental conservation efforts. Agronomists provided guidance on proper planting techniques, demonstrating how to dig holes for the trees.
The world must address the environmental damage caused by human activity. Teaching children to respect nature from a young age is crucial for a sustainable future. By investing in women and children, we foster hope for a better world.
The Importance of Forest Conservation
Deforestation remains a significant issue. People continue to cut down trees for furniture, paper production, and construction. In Haiti, approximately 80% of wood is used for cooking, heating, and energy production. In rural areas, where economic hardship and instability prevail, tree cutting is often a primary means of survival.
However, trees offer numerous benefits, including:
– Regulating air quality for healthier breathing
– Absorbing carbon dioxide and mitigating climate change
– Preventing soil erosion and land degradation
– Promoting a healthier environment overall
Given these benefits, it is essential to support reforestation and restoration initiatives. World Parks Haiti is committed to:
– Ending deforestation and preserving forests
– Restoring degraded lands and promoting agroforestry
– Encouraging sustainable forest management and green value chains
Ensuring Long-Term Success
To maintain and protect our planted areas, World Parks Haiti is training a team of local workers to monitor and care for the trees. This initiative reflects our dedication to ensuring the long-term success of the project and fostering a healthier environment in Capotille.
Community Participation and Gratitude
World Parks Haiti emphasizes a participatory approach, involving all sectors of the community, including grassroots organizations, educational institutions, and government representatives. We extend our gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this project and invite continued support to ensure its ongoing success.Together, we can restore Haiti’s natural beauty and build a greener future for generations to come.
~ Martin Jacques Fritz, February 2025