Northern Caribbean Disaster Response

Blue Atlas Project: Ongoing Efforts in the Northern Caribbean

Overview The Blue Atlas Project continues its dedicated efforts across the Northern Caribbean, focusing on two primary initiatives: the SULA Grant program in Jamaica supporting recovery from Hurricane Beryl and the installation of community gardens in Abaco. These programs align with our mission to foster resilient, sustainable food systems and empower local communities in disaster recovery and long-term development.

SULA Grant Program: Hurricane Beryl Recovery in Jamaica Following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Beryl, the Blue Atlas Project established the SULA Grant program to aid smallholder farmers and fishers in rebuilding their livelihoods. The program aims to promote climate-smart agricultural practices and support the transition towards more resilient food production systems.

Community Garden Installations in Abaco In response to food insecurity challenges exacerbated by Hurricane Dorian and ongoing rebuilding efforts, the Blue Atlas Project initiated a community garden program in Abaco. This initiative is designed to enhance local food production capacity, improve nutrition, and serve as an educational platform for sustainable agriculture.

Key Achievements:

• Financial Assistance: Jamaican SULA Fund currently at $25,000 will help those impacted by Beryl replace lost equipment, upgrade systems and cover the costs of training or conferences within the sector.

• Infrastructure Support: Provided systems, training and materials to assist with the construction of a community garden in Murphy Town, Abaco. 

• Local Partnerships: Collaborated with community groups to ensure inclusive participation and long-term sustainability.

• Crop Production: Gardens producing a variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, spinach, and herbs, improving access to fresh, nutritious food.

• Educational Outreach: Hands-on gardening workshops to be hosted at multiple community locations. 

Impact: The SULA Grant program is helping to restore productivity for many farmers and fishermen, reducing reliance on imported food, and improving resilience to future climate-related disruptions. 

Impact: The community gardens have fostered a spirit of collaboration and self-sufficiency. Families have reported reduced grocery expenses, improved dietary diversity, and increased knowledge of home gardening techniques.

Looking Ahead The Blue Atlas Project remains committed to strengthening these initiatives. In Jamaica, we plan to expand the SULA Grant program with additional funding and create a FEAST Center in partnership with the government training program to introduce more access in aquaculture practices. In Abaco, we aim to establish additional support for the growing aquaculture community to promote sustainable fishing practices and local resiliency. 

Together, these efforts are paving the way for a more resilient and food-secure future in the Northern Caribbean.

• JamaicaFlyer.pdf (PDF)
  

Blue Atlas Project: Mangrove Restoration and Ongoing Rebuilding Efforts in the Bahamas

Overview of Mangrove Destruction
Hurricane Dorian left an indelible mark on the Bahamas, severely affecting both the land and its communities. A key concern in the aftermath has been the widespread destruction of mangrove forests, which play a vital role in protecting the islands from erosion and from future storm winds and surge, while having huge implications for the local economy. Across Grand Bahama and Abaco, approximately 13,700 acres of mangroves were decimated, significantly increasing the vulnerability of these regions.

Grand Bahama saw 73% of its mangroves damaged, affecting 21,000 acres, with 5,200 acres completely destroyed. In Abaco, 40% of mangroves were severely impacted, with 20,000 acres damaged and 8,500 acres entirely lost. The restoration of these ecosystems is a priority for ensuring the long-term resilience of the islands.

Moving Forward in 2025
As part of our ongoing rebuilding efforts, the Blue Atlas Project is advancing with a major mangrove restoration initiative in early 2025. Through a vital partnership with the Perry Institute for Marine Sciences, we will be joining the collective mangrove alliance that aims to replant 1,000,000 mangroves by the end of 2025.

This project is integral to the long-term recovery of the Bahamas. With a target density of 2,500 mangroves per hectare, this effort is essential for reducing the impacts of future storms, protecting shorelines from erosion, and ensuring the continued health of the local fishing industry (which generates $169 million USD annually) and the local food system

Community and Volunteer Engagement
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to community-driven recovery. In 2025, we will offer volunteer opportunities for those interested in joining us on the ground as we work alongside community efforts to restore the mangroves. This hands-on engagement will not only contribute to the restoration efforts but will also foster a deeper understanding of the crucial role mangroves play in the environment and local livelihoods. We will also continue to work with school garden managers and student groups in Abaco to provide educational outreach on the importance of mangrove ecosystems to the local food system and economy.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaboration
The Blue Atlas Project is committed to building on its established partnerships with key organizations, including the Perry Institute for Marine Sciences (PIMS) and the Bahamas Mangrove Alliance. With these collaborations, we are ensuring that the most effective and sustainable restoration practices are implemented, that every step we take is rooted in science and community needs.

Our efforts will continue to be coordinated with local authorities, such as the Bahamas National Trust and the Ministry of Education, to ensure that the designated planting areas, including the Marls, are protected and maintained.

Restoration Process and Goals
The restoration process will involve collecting and planting mangrove propagules (sea pens) using both direct and dispersal techniques. We are deeply committed to community involvement in this process, and we will prioritize locally sourced propagules to meet our ambitious restoration goals.

Join Us in Early 2025
As we look ahead, the Blue Atlas Project invites volunteers and supporters to join us in this critical mission. Together, we can restore the mangroves, strengthen the islands' resilience, and support the communities of  Abaco as they continue to rebuild. Volunteer opportunities will be available as we move forward with this transformative project, providing a unique chance to make a lasting impact on both the environment and the local economy.

By restoring these essential ecosystems, we are not just planting trees; we are laying the foundation for a sustainable, resilient future for the Bahamas.