Island Explorer Initiative: Documenting Dominica’s Biodiversity and Sparking Conservation Engagement

Garry Auguiste

The overarching goal of this career placement is to conduct comprehensive documentation of Dominica’s biodiversity within its three National Parks while also conceptualizing engaging educational activities. Through field surveys and desk research facilitated by WildDominique’s local and regional network, the mentee will digitally catalogue existing fauna and flora, ensuring accessibility for local stakeholders. Concurrently, he will develop activity books tailored to each park, highlighting biodiversity, geology, and cultural heritage. These activities aim to instil environmental stewardship values, empower future conservation leaders, and safeguard vital ecological data, particularly within Protected Areas facing threats from unsustainable development.

“My overall placement experience was very positive. I especially enjoyed the outdoor activities, as they were highly hands-on and engaging. The host organization (WildDominique) created a welcoming atmosphere! Not only did we work together as colleagues, but we also developed genuine friendships throughout the process. I also valued the group calls with other CLP placements, which allowed us to learn about each other’s projects and approaches.”