Bahamas National Trust Strategic Plan 2018 – 2022

The Bahamas National Trust P.O. Box N-4105, Nassau, Bahamas Tel: 242-393-1317 | Fax: 242-393-4978 Email: bnt@bnt.bs | www.bnt.bs BAHAMAS NATIONAL TRUST STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 Foreword "You cannot protect the environment unless you empower people, you inform them, and you help them understand that these resources are their own, that they must protect them." -Wangari Maathai, Environmental Activist & Nobel Laureate The national park system of The Bahamas, comprising approximately 2.2 million acres of both terrestrial and marine areas, was created, and is managed by, The Bahamas National Trust, a private-public collaboration established by an act of Parliament in 1959. Uniquely, the Trust is the only such non-governmental entity in the world responsible for the management of a country's national park system. In 2019, the BNT will celebrate its 60th anniversary. During the past six decades, the Trust has helped to: "conserve and protect Bahamian natural resources", while serving as a "powerful force for [regional] and global biodiversity conservation." Through passion and courage, a commitment to education and excellence, respect for others, and through integrity, transparency and accountability the Trust has helped to conserve and celebrate the archipelago of biodiversity that is our common wealth of national parks and protected areas. Over the next five years, the Government of the Bahamas will collaborate with the Trust as it implements the 2018-2022 Strategic Plan. This will include ongoing efforts to address climate change, combating the effects of plastics on our environment, and other measures to conserve our natural environment and to educate Bahamians about our shared environmental trust. We support the efforts of the Trust in the ongoing management and enhancement of national parks, inclu- sive of improved infrastructure and accessibility, and greater enforcement of regulations, and maintenance. The Government will work with the BNT in the creation of policies necessary to enhance biodiversity con- servation in alignment with international best practices and in accord with national sustainable development goals. Environmental education, especially of young people, has always been at the core of the work of the Trust. The national parks serve as living classrooms for thousands of young people. We look forward to working with the Trust in designing and offering even more exciting and challenging experiential education possibilities, and opportunities for community service and volunteerism linked to the national school curriculum. The Government will also work with the BNT to encourage citizens, members, donors, businesses, entrepre- neurs and others to generously "invest their resources in national parks in a way that they never have before." Stories are the repository of a group's or a people's shared inheritance, collective will and imagination, and common vision. By sharing its broader story and park stories, including through social media, the BNT will help to realize the ambitious goals of its 2018-2022 Strategic Plan. On behalf of the Government of The Bahamas, I thank The Bahamas National Trust for its towering achieve- ments over the past six decades. I assure the Trust of the continued dedicated support of the Government in the conservation and celebration of our majestic national park system. Dr. The Hon. Hubert A. Minnis Prime Minister Commonwealth of The Bahamas 2 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 3 Table of Contents Foreword Executive Summary Introduction 4 The Bahamas National Trust 6 How We Began 7 Mission and Vision 8-9 Values 11 Strategic Plan at a Glance 12-13 The Bahamas National Trust - Our Network 14-15 Managing Unique Spaces 16 10 Priority Parks 18-27 Biodiversity Conservation 28 Ensuring Functioning Habitats 30 Protecting Species in Peril 32 Thinking Globally, Acting Locally 34 Science That Benefi ts All 35 Engaging Education 36 Touching the Lives of Bahamian Youth 39 Building Stewardship 40 Outdoor Classrooms 41 Investing in Nature 42 Immersing Donors in Our Work 44 Members Matter 44 People for Parks 44 Capital for Conservation 45 Financial Fitness 46-47 Park Stories 48 The Power of Partnerships 50 BNT Offi ces 52 Photo credits 52 The 'Peggy Hall", a gift from friends of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park (ECLSP), provides housing for the dedicated staff who live and work in this beautiful “blue sanctuary”. 4 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5 INTRODUCTION Over the past fi ve years The Bahamas National Trust has made great strides as an organization. We planned thoroughly. We hired experts. We placed an emphasis on governance. We partnered with the community. We executed carefully. We accomplished much. Between 2012 and 2017 and with the support of many friends, businesses and our government, we were successful in achieving the following: • Creating awareness about the urgent action needed to save conch • Connecting young people to nature through our programmes, including the award-winning Discovery Club • Developing economic opportunities for Bahamians by training and certifying bird guides • Signifi cantly expanding the national park system, including marine protected areas which are critical to the replenishment of our fi sheries resources • Developing the Bahamas Natural History Conference, an international platform for scientifi c discourse on the Bahamian natural environment • Discovering and describing two previously unknown species, the Silver Boa snake and a Katydid insect As we began to develop the strategic plan you are about to read, we became focused on who we are as an organization and what we want to accomplish over the next fi ve years. We are the caretakers, protectors and voice of our country’s unique and diverse natural resources. The will to preserve this rich environmental heritage is what inspired the creation of The Bahamas National Trust in 1959 and today, nearly 60 years later, it is still the heart of our mission. We are the national park service of The Bahamas. We are BNT. "This new strategic plan demon- strates BNT's renewed focus and dedication to prepare the national park system and the biodiversity they represent for today's and tomorrow's challenges." Matt Jeffery Program Director, Audubon The BNT-managed national parks protect key habitats for birds like the endemic Bahama Woodstar. 6 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 7 THE Bahamas National Trust The Bahamas National Trust is a unique organization. Created by an historic act of parliament in 1959 and given the mandate to create and manage the national parks system of The Bahamas, we are possibly the only non- governmental organization in the world charged with this task. As a non-profi t organization, donations are our lifeblood. Our largest donor is the Government of The Bahamas which gives us an annual grant that, in 2017, provided roughly 33 percent of our funding. The legislation that created the BNT also established the community we view as our valued partners in conservation, our membership. Our members provide fi nancial support for our efforts and add strength to our voice. We are governed by a 29-member council made up of appointed representatives from some of the most prestigious conservation and scientifi c organizations in the world and from government. Council members are also elected from our diverse membership. Our structure uniquely positions us to receive funding from government, philanthropic organizations, private donors and our membership and enables us to access a vast network consisting of some of the greatest conservation minds on the planet. COMPOSITION OF OUR COUNCIL Appointed Members Offi ce of the Governor-General Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources Ministry of Environment and Housing Ministry of Education Ministry of Tourism & Aviation American Museum of Natural History National Audubon Society Smithsonian Institution United States Park Service Wildlife Conservation Society University of Florida University of Miami University of The Bahamas Elected Members 15 Bahamas National Trust Members HOW WE BEGAN When Ilya Tolstoy, grandson of famed Russian author Leo Tolstoy, assembled a concerned group of forward- thinking Bahamian and North American conservationists in 1958, he did not set out to create The Bahamas National Trust. He was just a dedicated naturalist who realized that the Exuma chain of islands was under threat from developers who wanted to buy it. The expedition to save the Exuma Cays, that Tolstoy led, included key Bahamian offi cials Oris Russell and Herbert McKinney, Robert P. Allen of the National Audubon Society, as well as Carleton Ray, Dan Beard, John Randall and Don Squires. While Allen was working with Tolstoy to save Exuma, he was also racing to prevent a different kind of loss. In the early 1950s he had discovered that, hunting and human intrusion were decimating the population of the West Indian Flamingo throughout the West Indies. In an effort to save key bird nesting sites, including a small, fragile population on the island of Inagua, Allen enlisted onto his team skilled fl amingo hunters Sammy and Jimmy Nixon, two of the fl ock’s greatest threats, turning them into the bird’s chief protectors. The reports that came from these tandem conservation efforts were groundbreaking. The teams shared the fi ndings of the Tolstoy expedition and the urgency of the plight of the West Indian Flamingo with the government. The results were the establishment of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park in 1958, the fi rst park of its kind in the world, and the creation of The Bahamas National Trust one year later. In 1965, the government designated the Inagua National Park. Today, the park serves as home to a thriving fl ock of more than 60,000 West Indian Flamingos, an integral part of the history of the BNT and a testament to one of the greatest conservation success stories of the 20th century. Andros West Side National Park is the largest continuous, protected wilderness, in the national park system. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 98 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 OUR MISSION The Bahamas National Trust is a science-based organization dedicated to effectively managing national parks to conserve and protect Bahamian natural resources. OUR VISION A comprehensive network of effectively managed Bahamian national parks and protected areas that is recognized as a powerful force for global biodiversity conservation which is supported and enjoyed by the public. "The Nature Conservancy is a long term funder and strategic partner of BNT because of the national and regional signifi cance of BNT’s role as manager of national parks. The plants, animals and ecosystems managed by BNT not only underpin The Bahamian economy and way of life but also support the larger Caribbean seascape. Through BNT efforts some of the most important and unique places in the Bahamas and the Caribbean region are being preserved.” Shenique Albury-Smith Bahamas Director The Nature Conservancy As the leading Bahamian conservation organization and manager of the national park system, The Bahamas National Trust plays a critical role in safeguarding the biodiversity of The Bahamas as well as the function of its ecosystems and the services they provide to Bahamian people. The Bahamas National Trust also plays a pivotal role in supporting research efforts to better understand the species and ecosystems of The Bahamas and developing the tools and strategies needed to protect and restore them. Dr. Craig Dahlgren Perry Institute for Marine Science The Andros West Side National Park protects 1.5 million acres of complex eco- systems and productive fi sh nurseries. 10 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 11 Passion and courage • for the environment • for the conservation of our natural resources • in the face of challenges OUR VALUES Commitment to Education • as a key to long-term conservation success • as a key to supporting a public conservation ethic • as an organization dedicated to developing our future conservation leaders National Parks as places of recreation where people connect with nature Commitment to excellence quality, and best practices • in protected areas management • in consistent and reliable service to our constituents • as a trusted advisor to government and the public on policies • using sound science as the foundation for conservation management Respect for others demonstrated through • teamwork • partnerships • community involvement in conservation decisions Integrity, transparency and accountability by • demonstrating and measuring success • employing best practices in governance "The Bahamas National Trust (BirdLife in the Bahamas) is at the forefront of protecting Bahamian biodiversity for the Bahamian people through its custodianship of the national park system. However, as a nation, The Bahamas is extremely vulnerable to the impacts of our changing climate and this new strategic plan sets out BNT’s ambitions to expand the park system to ensure full protection of their Key Biodiversity Areas in the face of climate change. As part of the BirdLife Global Partnership, BNT is fully supported in this mission within international convention fora, the Key Biodiversity Area Partnership, by other BirdLife Partners (such as National Audubon), and by a dedicated Secretariat staff from around the world.” Patricia Zurita, CEO Birdlife International The waters of the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park are world famous for their pristine beauty, outstanding anchorages and breathtaking marine environment. 12 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 13 MANAGING SPACES • Bringing people to parks • Safeguarding our natural resources • Maintaining special places Managing Spaces ENGAGING EDUCATION • Touching the lives of youth • Outdoor classrooms • Building environmental stewards BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION • Ensuring functioning habitats • Protecting species in peril • Science that benefi ts all • Thinking globally INVESTING IN NATURE • Immersing donors in our work • Members Matter • Capital for conservation • People for Parks PARK STORIES • Sharing our impact • Inspiring investment in natural capital • Celebrating conservation leadership NATIONAL PARKS Engaging Education Biodiversit y Conservation Pa rk St or ie s Investing in Nature STRATEGIC PLAN AT A GLANCE National parks are at the core of our work. We accomplish this work through fi ve interconnected pillars. Every day, we are manag- ing unique spaces as a form of biodiversity conservation; foster- ing environmental stewardship by offering engaging education; encouraging philanthropists and the business community to be- come involved by investing in nature; then sharing the impact we create together by telling our park stories. MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES – Over the next fi ve years we will con- tinue to enhance our national parks by providing the necessary infrastruc- ture to make them more accessible to people and encouraging commu- nity enjoyment of these special spaces. We will employ best practices in park management planning, increasing our capacity for enforcement, and we will continue to create the framework needed for regular mainte- nance of these places. BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION – We will continue to conserve the unique biodiversity found within, and beyond, the boundaries of our na- tional parks by regularly monitoring and restoring these critical habitats. We will conduct the necessary scientifi c research to infl uence the crea- tion of the policies needed to protect these habitats and the vulnerable species that call them home. To ensure that our research can benefi t all, we will remain committed to the dissemination of that scientifi c informa- tion to resource managers, policy makers and the public. We will align all of these activities with national development plans and international agreements. ENGAGING EDUCATION – Our award-winning environmental ed- ucation programmes touch the lives and hearts of thousands of young people annually. We will continue to be a leader in youth environmental education, using national parks as outdoor classrooms to create environ- mental stewards. Our education programmes will continue to support the national school curriculum and provide benefi cial volunteer opportu- nities for students. INVESTING IN NATURE – Between 2018 and 2020 we will encourage people to invest their resources in national parks in a way that they never have before. We will immerse our donors in our work, reinvigorate our membership programme and connect parks to people, creating business opportunities for entrepreneurs to the benefi t of local communities. PARK STORIES – We will share with the community the impact of what we accomplish, with the support of our partners, donors and volunteers. We will highlight our achievements and celebrate conservation leaders within the BNT, among our partner organizations and in our scientifi c network. 14 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 15 The BAHAMAS NATIONAL TRUST– OUR NETWORK 16 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES 17 Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Managing unique spaces Bringing people to parks Maintaining special places Safeguarding our natural resources By providing appropriate infrastructure Encourage people to visit and enjoy these spaces Generating more appreciation for nature By enforcing park rules Fewer unsustainable activities occur Parks provide productive spaces for wildlife Providing needed maintenance of infrastructure Ensures that visitors can enjoy nature safely Generating more appreciation for nature Our goal is a world-class national park system that supports the most important Bahamian biodiversity and provides economic sustainability and climate resilience for people. MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES Strategic Priorities Bringing people to parks We will improve access to the 10 parks detailed in the following pages, making them easier to visit. These parks were chosen because they have the potential to be sustainable with the right investment. Over the next fi ve years, as a part of this investment, we will expand their infrastructure, amenities and administration and implement man- agement and development plans designed to safeguard the integrity of these sensitive resources against increased usage. Safeguarding our natural resources We will strengthen our enforcement programme, by enacting park by- laws and policies, increasing staff, offering capacity building training, implementing innovative technology, procuring major equipment and partnering with national enforcement agencies. Maintaining special places We will continue to maintain existing park assets and future infrastruc- tural improvements allowing us to manage these special places and provide exemplary service to visitors. Our Impact The majestic West Indian Flamingo in the Inagua National Park. Its rescue from the brink of extinction is one of the greatest conservation success stories of the 20th century. 18 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES 19 Established in 1985, the 11-acre Retreat is famous internationally for its unparalleled palm collection. Formerly a private home, it Providence. Visitors can explore an au- atmosphere that has introduced thousands of students to the Bahamian environment. Jobs created after investment: • Chief Warden • Curator Infrastructure Restoration Signage Entrance Improvements Vehicles Equipment/Chipper Investment needed - $1.2 - $1.5 million Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $550,000 Target Completion 2018 The Retreat OUR PRIORITY PARKS - 30 feet deep, and also supports a diverse collection of plants and animals. Jobs created after investment: Target Completion 2018 - and a visitor centre. Additional needs in- Annual operating costs: $125,000 Primeval Forest National Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS 20 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES 21 and the important marine life they support. turn into entrepreneurial opportunities. Jobs created after investment: Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $250,000 Target Completion 2020 Visitor/Education Centre Restrooms Boardwalk (extension) Demarcation Management Plan Vehicles Investment needed - $1 - $1.1 million Bonefish Pond National Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS mile sanctuary is famous for its pristine beauty and as an important habitat for provide ancient records of life on earth, Jobs created after investment: Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $542,000 Target Completion 2019 New Visitor Centre & Restrooms Boardwalk (extension) Demarcation Multipurpose Building & Workshop Sustainable Utilities - Water & Energy Management Plan Enforcement Programme with Drones ATV Vehicles New Park Warden Vessels Investment needed - $2.5 - $5.4 million Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS 22 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES 23 1,937-acres of land and sea habitats. the last intact and most productive - - Important Bird Area (IBA). Jobs created after investment: Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $317,000 Target Completion 2019 Visitor/Education Centre Trails Signage Demarcation Mooring Buoys Lucayan Village Vehicles Boats Investment needed - $1.4 - $1.7 million Lucayan National Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS - tre comprises 100-acres of natural beauty also home to a rehabilitated Bahama Parrot Jobs created after investment: Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $451,000 Target Completion 2020 Restrooms Restore buildings Signage & Pathways Vehicles Investment needed - $1.3 - $1.9 million Rand Nature Centre OUR PRIORITY PARKS 24 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES 25 Established in 2002, this 40,000- and invertebrates, some not found Jobs created after investment: Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $352,000 Target Completion 2021 Visitor/Education Centre Trails Signage Campsite Restrooms Vehicles Demarcation Management Plan Lookout Tower & Viewing Platforms Blue Holes National Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS - - - 5,000 acres of Caribbean pine forest and an extensive area of mixed broadleaf coppice. Jobs created after investment: • Security Staff Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $330,000 Target Completion 2021 Visitor/Education Centre Trails Signage Campsites Restrooms Vehicles Investment needed - $1.4 - $2.1 million Abaco National Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS 26 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 MANAGING UNIQUE SPACES 27 - Jobs created after investment: Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $109,972 Target Completion 2022 Restore Camp Vernay Trails Signage Management Plan Vehicles Boats Investment needed - $1 - $1.1 million - - Infrastructure is needed to compliment nature - - Inagua National Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS Established in 2002 and later expanded in - - for commercially important marine species, Jobs created after investment: Annual operating costs after expansion/upgrades - $278,850 Target Completion 2022 Visitor/Education Centre Demarcation Mooring buoys Vehicles Boats Investment needed - $730,000 - $2.5 million Andros West Side National Park OUR PRIORITY PARKS BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION28 29 BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION Our goal is a nationally and internationally recognised and respected science programme that supports the management of, and decision making for, national parks, protected areas and biodiversity. Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Ensuring functioning habitats Science that Protecting species in peril By regular monitoring of habitats Management plans are made more effective and adaptable Ensures that threats are reduced despite a changing climate Regularly conducting research on unique and endangered species Reduces threats and increases resilience of species in a changing climate Ensuring that all data is disseminated widely Allows for smarter national and global level planning Ensures smarter and targeted use of limited resources Thinking globally acting locally Integrating international agreements and policies into our work Ensures that our work is relevant and relatable internationally Ensures that The Bahamas from international resources S sp Thi a Biodiversity conservation Ensures adaptable species, appropriate planning and policy Strategic Priorities Ensuring functioning habitats We will ensure that we collect the necessary data from our national parks and surrounding areas to make informed deci- sions about expansion, management, restoration and climate adaptation needs. Protecting species in peril We will continue to support work that ensures appropriate con- servation planning for the unique biodiversity of The Bahamas by conducting research, informing policy and implementing management plans. Science that benefi ts all We will ensure that the data collected and lessons learned are made available to the public. This will be done through storing data, pub- lishing reports, providing spaces for lectures and conferences. Thinking globally, acting locally We will integrate global strategies into our programme of work through the development of IUCN categorization for protected areas and national IUCN redlist of threatened species; through the integration of the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation; the adoption of Sustainable Development Goals and the fulfi l- ment of the Convention of Biological Diversity commitments. Our Impact This red mangrove has succumbed to increased salinity in the pond on Ingua where it is rooted. An important part of BNT’s work is to monitor such habitats to determine whether changes are the result of natural processes or misuse of the environment. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION30 31 ENSURING FUNCTIONING HABITATS The regular monitoring of habitats using scientifi c methodology is a critical component of the BNT’s national park management cycle, especially in the face of a changing climate. By spearheading the adoption of practices and policies that conserve, restore, and manage ecosystems to make them more resilient, we can protect communities from climate-related impacts and hazards, while delivering critical social, economic, and environmental benefi ts. The healthier ecosystems are, the better they can absorb climate change impacts, recover from serious events, and adapt to a new future. We will address national park management needs and the threat of climate change by: • Collaborating with the government and conservation organizations to identify and protect appropriate areas to safeguard Bahamian biodiversity and support communities • Constantly monitoring national parks and their ecosystems to evaluate the current situation, detect changes and advise on adaptive management strategies • Implementing invasive species removal and pollution control in national parks, preventing compromising development, regulating park activities, and restoring critical ecosystems • Working with the Reverse the Decline of Coral Reefs Project and other partners to support new advances in coral restoration and facilitate the recovery of damaged coral reefs • Adopting a hybridized approach to protect park infrastructure – using a combination of both man- made and living structures to increase the resilience of natural resources and built structures in the parks • Infl uencing relevant policy to help reduce threats and build resiliency against climate change impacts, including advocating for an invasive species policy and a sand and rock mining policy Climate Change in Our Work REACHING THE GOAL Annual budget range for maximum conservation impact $200K – $800K The fast holding and pliable roots of mangroves offer great resilience to the effects of storm surge. By learning what we can from nature and restoring these living defenses to their full potential, the BNT is contributing to a more resilient Bahamas in the face of climate change. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-202232 PROTECTING SPECIES IN PERIL We will continue to support work that ensures appropriate conservation planning for the unique biodiversity of The Bahamas. Bahama Oriole Found only on the island of Andros, the Bahama Oriole (Icterus northropi) is currently listed as critically endangered. Recent studies by Dr. Kevin Omland (University of Maryland, Baltimore County, UMBC) and the BNT suggest the population may be much larger than previously thought. There is still much to learn about its habitat requirements and the threats posed to it. The BNT will continue to work with UMBC to fi ll information gaps on the species, develop a conservation plan, inform policy and raise awareness on Andros. Conception Bank Silver Boa The Conception Bank Silver boa (Chilabothrus argentum), was discovered in the Conception Island National Park by Dr. Robert Graham Reynolds in 2015. After genetic analysis, the Harvard University team led by Dr. Reynolds, confi rmed it was a previously unknown species. We will continue to support Dr Reynolds' work by conducting population assessments and research to understand the boa’s habitat requirements and potential threats. The aim is to develop a species conservation plan which we will incorporate into the management plan for the Conception Island National Park. Piping Plover Migratory shore birds like the Piping Plover rely on healthy coastlines along their migratory route. Our Piping Plover work with the National Audubon Society led to the protection of the Joulter Cays, an important wintering habitat for these birds. We will continue to ensure that the Piping Plover and other shore birds have healthy stopover and wintering coastal habitats through regular monitoring, infl uencing policy, and conducting climate-smart habitat management. These actions will both stabilize and enhance the populations of at least 16 rare species, while simultaneously benefi ting 375 other species that rely on similar habitats. Bahamian Rock Iguana The Bahamas has three species and several sub-species of Bahamian Rock iguana populations scattered across the archipelago that are all either endangered or critically endangered. They have suffered due to: habitat loss, the introduction of predators, illegal hunting, increased contact with tourists and poaching for the illicit pet trade. We will continue to collaborate with the Shedd Aquarium and Island Conservation to research this species, reduce threats through policy and habitat management, and encourage the use of best practices when visiting iguana populated islands. Queen Conch This national icon is of grave con- servation concern. Due to inappro- priate legislation, insuffi cient enforce- ment of regulations, and a lack of data, this species is in serious decline. Immediate action is needed. We will continue to work with partners to ensure that the necessary research is conducted to lobby for scientifi - cally informed regulations, increase capac- ity for enforcement, and raise awareness of the plight of the species. REACHING THE GOAL Annual budget range for maximum conservation impact $250K – $500K Bahama Oriole Conception Bank Silver Boa Piping Plover Bahamian Rock Iguana Queen Conch BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION 33 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-202234 BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION 35 SCIENCE THAT BENEFITS ALL THINKING GLOBALLY, ACTING LOCALLY The Bahamas National Trust continues to adopt global conservation strategies to benefi t the Bahamian environment and meet global objectives. We are aligning our protected areas with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categories to be consistent with the rest of the world; compiling an endangered species list to create a national level IUCN redlist; incorporating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; and working to meet the requirements under the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation (GSPC). The GSPC is an agreement to which The Bahamas is a signatory under the Convention of Biological Diversity. This agreement aims to ensure the long-term conservation of plant diversity. Thanks to the expansion of the national park system the BNT has protected 34 percent of our endemic plant species exceeding the requirements outlined under the agree- ment. Over the next fi ve years we will work to reach the GSPC goal of protecting 75 percent of our most important endemic plants to preserve diversity. Through our work at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, we will achieve the remaining GSPC targets. These include, creating a searchable, online, scientifi c catalogue describing 50 percent of all vascular plant species; promoting indigenous and local knowledge through the Preserve’s medici- nal plant beds, economic botany trails and edible history displays; and executing a suite of botany educational programmes. We are committed to making our research available to the scientifi c community, stu- dents, teachers, conservation practitioners, resource managers and the general public. This will be done through publishing pa- pers and technical documents, presenting at conferences and hosting the Bahamas Natural History Conference (BNHC). The fi rst Bahamas Natural History Confer- ence was held in March 2013 under the theme, “Highlighting the Importance of Research, Conservation, and Environmental Stewardship”. Featuring over 100 pre- senters, it attracted local and international researchers, educators, natural resource managers, students, and naturalists. The conference created a forum to encourage interdisciplinary research and conservation in The Bahamas. It marked the beginning of a more direct dialogue between the scientifi c community and national deci- sion-makers. BNHC remains the only Ba- hamian natural history conference on New Providence and it inspires new avenues of research and cooperation across disciplines while highlighting the benefi ts of research. REACHING THE GOAL Annual budget range for maximum conservation impact $50K – $100K This aesthetic freshwater wetland exhibit at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve showcases a unique collection of freshwater plants from around The Bahamas. The Preserve’s plant conservation work, at left, includes the growing of rare and endangered Bahamian plants in the Lath house, such as these endemic Agave indagatorum used for resto- ration projects and school beautifi cation programmes. Dr. Craig Dahlgren of the Perry Institute for Marine Science, along with BNT science staff conducting fi sh and coral surveys at the Millar’s Bluehole off of Eleuthera. This expedition was used to inform the next group of marine protected areas to be proposed to the Government. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 ENGAGING EDUCATION36 37 ENGAGING EDUCATION Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Engaging education Touching the lives of Bahamian youth Building environmental stewards Outdoor classrooms By executing a diverse array of environmental education programmes More children, teachers and their families are exposed to the environment Generating more appreciation of nature By providing more outdoor related curricula More students learn about the Bahamian environment Generating more appreciation of nature By cultivating a culture of stewardship and service in parks People develop a deeper appreciation of park needs Enhancing the capacity and sustainability of national parks Education programme participants will have multiple opportunities to participate in transformational and engaging learning experiences that promote stewardship. Our national parks will act as the optimal classroom for anyone wanting to learn about nature. Touching the lives of Bahamian youth We will touch the lives of Bahamian youth by exposing them to programmes that facilitate personal growth, promote critical thinking and foster a love of nature. Outdoor classrooms We will immerse students in nature using national parks as outdoor classrooms that provide experiential learning. Building environmental stewards We will provide meaningful and mutually benefi cial volunteer opportunities that help people make personal connections to park resources and increase stewardship. Our Impact Strategic Priorities Seeing mangroves up close in a tidal creek in Bonefi sh Pond National Park, is an experience offered through our education programmes. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-202238 TOUCHING THE LIVES OF BAHAMIAN YOUTH My fi rst interaction with the BNT was during a high school career fair at Kendal G.L. Isaacs Gymnasium where it had been promoting its 2015 EcoCamp. The experience sounded like a dream vacation to me - a week long, all-expenses-paid trip on Andros with the ocean in your backyard! Fascinated with the idea, I returned to the BNT’s table seven times during that event to ensure the lady had marked repeated asterisks next to my name to in- dicate how interested I was. Fast forward, I was accepted, attended the camp and to this day, it’s still the best week I have ever had. I have had countless wonderful opportuni- ties with the BNT since eco-camp, but two that stand out to me are the 2016 Bahamas Natural History Conference where I volunteered and the Sea Turtle Research Intern- ship, which allowed me to tag turtles and go into commu- nities in the Abacos. The Navigators programme was started at my school some time later, and of course I was the fi rst person to offi cially join. In summer 2016 the Navigators programme provided me an opportunity to work with the BNT through a summer student employment program and I haven’t left since. Dur- ing the summer internship I was tasked with media work for Conchservation, the conch conservation campaign. That landed me with a camera in my hand and I was a natural with it! My creativity and willingness to learn eventually made me the organization’s “media whiz kid”. Following the internship I volunteered for a few weeks. Through my connection with the BNT, I was able to join the Youth Environment Corps Programme a few months later and that’s where I started my ‘real’ BNT journey. I have acquired a ton of skills and profi ciencies at the Bahamas National Trust and to top it off, I have been ex- posed to a great network of people and wonderful oppor- tunities. I can’t wait to see how my journey will continue. Of course, visiting all the major Bahama Islands to create stories of conservation is at the top of my Wish List! -Elijah Sands, Apprentice “ “ REACHING THE GOAL Annual budget range for maximum conservation impact $700K – $1M ENGAGING EDUCATION 39 OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS BUILDING STEWARDSHIP The BNT has always recognized volunteers as our conservation ambassadors. From our inception they have played a signifi cant role in shaping our organization and achieving our mission. Volunteers contribute new ideas and ways of doing things and they connect with others in their communities to share our conservation stories. Our volunteer initiatives have yielded important information on internationally endangered species such as the Piping Plover, uncovered the occurrences of new species such as the Greater Black-backed Gull and recorded the loss of species on certain islands. Over the next fi ve years we will continue to run volunteer programmes, like our Citizen Science Programme, which allow for greater public participation in national park management. Our parks, science and education departments will collaborate to determine monitoring gaps and needs for our national parks, build a digital platform for data collection and train volunteers. Under the direction of scientists and researchers, people of varying expertise will be able to assist in our fi rst BioBlitz. Volunteers will also assist with wildlife- monitoring initiatives, database management, mangrove restoration and invasive species removal projects. We will continue to work with citizen scientists to implement the annual Christmas Bird Count (National Audubon Society), Caribbean Waterbird Census (Birds Caribbean) and Bahamas Shorebird Surveys (US Fish and Wildlife Service). The Navigators, our Discovery Club high school level, and clubs at tertiary institutions will provide opportunities for increased scientifi c knowledge among young Bahamians, giving them skills to assist in marine and terrestrial resource management. As citizen science becomes better integrated into our management of national parks, we will refi ne best practices and expand the scope of our programmes to engage at least 3,000 people in the next fi ve years. We intend to capitalize on the internet and smart technology to motivate participation by park users, which will allow more people to make meaningful connections to national parks and inspire new stewards, supporters and users. Using national parks as outdoor classrooms we will host at least 100,000 participants in our fi eld trip programme over the next fi ve years. By using technology, visitors will be encouraged to engage in self-guided learning, providing opportunities for them to co-create knowledge about park resources by telling their stories and sharing the meanings that they discover in those unique spaces. We will also train teachers to use national parks as outdoor classrooms, leveraging their ability to deliver the multiplier effect on the number of students who visit and connect with national parks. In the Discovery Club, our year-long outreach programme, we will continue to develop young stewards through environmental themed learning units that improve understanding of our natural surroundings and national park management. Members will complete indoor and outdoor classroom sessions to earn badges. Through innovative teaching techniques, traditional games and mentors who serve as environmental infl uencers, young people in our school and community-based clubs will develop a deeper appreciation for all that surrounds them in the natural world. Through increased training workshops and engagement with teachers and community leaders the BNT aims to expand the Discovery Club programme by 48 percent over the next fi ve years to achieve our goal of 100 clubs spread across the archipelago. The combination of these 100 Discovery Clubs, our national parks and offi ces will make the BNT's country-wide network unparalleled in size, reach, scale, infl uence and diversity in The Bahamas. A 100-club operation will ensure better success for Discovery Club in building a regiment of stewards and advocates for the environment and national parks across the length and breadth of the Bahamas. With that, we continue our legacy of building lives to build our nation. REACHING THE GOAL Annual budget range for maximum conservation impact $100K – $150K pp REACHING THE GOAL Annual budget range for maximum conservation impact $50K – $100K A BioBlitz is an event that focuses on fi nding and identifying as many species as possible in a specifi c area over a short period of time. Scientists and volunteers work to get an overall count of the plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms that live in a place. Every year thousands of BNT volunteers give their time to national parks. Here a volunteer supports mangrove restoration efforts in Bonefi sh Pond National Park. Annually our education programmes touch the lives of thousands of young people like this student visiting Lucayan National Park with his class. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-202240 ENGAGING EDUCATION 41 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 INVESTING IN NATURE 4342 INVESTING IN NATURE For our national park system and organization to grow, we must ensure availability of the necessary resources. These include vital funding, capital, and the time, energy and talents of a committed membership and volunteer base. We want to encourage our supporters to invest in nature with us, by whatever means they can. Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases BiBBBB i BiBBBB i BiBBBB i Members Matter Immersing donors in our work By making donors feel connected to our work Generating more trust and support for our work By showing our members that they are valued We can attract and retain more members Generating more revenue and support for our work BiBBBB i People for Parks By developing a programme that engages dynamic professionals and entrepreneurs We inspire the next generation of BNT volunteer leadership Ensuring that we continue to have strong governance Im PPe Investing in nature They are better able to see the impact of their donations Capital for conservation By adding infrastructure to parks and strengthening the user fee collection process Parks are able to generate more income Allowing for the sustainable maintenance of parks People for Parks We created People for Parks to connect with people. The Bahamas National Trust wants to engage the wider community in the important and impactful work that we do. As the saying goes, membership has its privileges. Our goal is to work harder to make our members feel special. Members Matter Immersing donors in our work Our donors are our partners in conservation. They positively impact the Bahamian environment through our work. We will do a better job of sharing that impact with them, connecting them to their national parks Strategic Priorities Our Impact Capital for conservation We will maximize existing and unlock new sources of capital to fund our work. Nature is deceptive; even this seemingly harsh land- scape in the Inagua National Park still provides a critical habitat for the iconic West Indian Flamingo. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 INVESTING IN NATURE 4544 Immersing Donors in Our Work As a nonprofi t organization, every goal that we achieve, is through the support of our mem- bers and donors. Our objective is to maintain a mature national park system that provides the palpable community benefi ts people should enjoy from these special places. They include opportunities for recreation and entrepre- neurship, as well as support for tourism and education. We will conduct meaningful science to support our national parks and through our education programmes we will touch the lives of young people in meaningful ways. The BNT will continue to draw strength from its donors and members to help us reach our goals and we in turn will keep them immersed in what we accomplish together. Members Matter We will employ several strategies to show our appreciation to our members. These include: • Hosting regular member appreciation events • Expanding our member discount programme • Strengthening our reciprocity agreements with participating national trusts, museums and zoos around the world. Through the above approaches, and other strategies within our Members Matter cam- paign, we will endeavour to grow our member- ship to 5,000 by the end 2020. People for Parks It is our belief that the more people learn about the breathtaking national park system that we manage for their benefi t, the more they will want to become involved. As BNT ambassadors, People for Parks participants will help us build bridges to the community that will support the BNT’s work in national parks by: • Deepening the involvement of corporate Bahamas • Increasing membership • Increasing the volunteer base • Raising the public profi le of the BNT The People for Parks programme will also provide a recruiting ground for the next gener- ation of volunteer leadership of the BNT. Many of our long-standing and committed volunteer leaders are looking to step away from active leadership of the organization. Our People for Parks programme will help us to identify and engage with a new group of conservation leaders who can play a key role in the BNT of the future. Capital for Conservation We will continue to invest in nature by pursu- ing appropriate strategic opportunities, culti- vating partnerships and seeking benefi cial and conservation friendly commercial relationships to support national parks. Our strategies will include: Concessions As the expansion of our 10 priority parks progresses, we will enter into concessionary arrangements for the operation of cafés and beverage depots. We will engage nature tour operators to enhance the visitor experience. We will provide entrepreneurial opportunities for local communities. An Innovative approach to merchandising We intend to make disciplined brand and growth investments during the next fi ve years with a view to: • Merchandise maximization. We will focus on maximizing the revenue we generate through the sale of branded merchandise by expanding our offering to include park specifi c products and innovative apparel designs featuring improved graphics. • Introducing new and exciting product lines to our gift shops. • Ensuring all our products are environmentally responsible. • Supporting, as far as possible, local arts, crafts and products. Maximizing Revenue Generation We will increase revenue by improving park services and adding infrastructure to our parks. We will strengthen our fee collection efforts and our internal controls to ensure maximum cash collection from park user fees, mooring and anchorage fees, gift shop sales and con- cession arrangements. Managing Costs Over the next fi ve years we will implement stronger cost management procedures to drive organization-wide effi ciency through: • A more aggressive focus on productivity, challenging every dollar we spend across our business centre and operating units. • Continued staff training including a focus on enforcement training for park wardens. • Acquisition of grant specifi c software for more effi cient implementation, tracking and reporting of grants. From their very fi rst step, through their entire seventy year lifespan, fl amingos thrive in our national parks. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 INVESTING IN NATURE 4746 Financial transparency and accountability continue to be important to the BNT. Our goal is to assure our donors and partners that we are fi scally re- sponsible. BY THE NUMBERS FINANCIAL FITNESS • Build fundraising capacity through our Advancement Committee. This volunteer leadership committee will work as a part of our fundraising frontline to help us secure the invest- ments needed in our priority parks. They will also focus on the longer-term goal of building our Heritage Fund to an amount that can generate $7-10 million in annual income. • Secure more grant funding to support special projects. A laser focus on this strategy will help us grow our net income over the next fi ve years from $4.5 million (2017) to $7.8 million (2022). KEY REVENUE SOURCES HOW WE PLAN TO GROW The key pillars of our fi nancial strategy are to: • Build long-term sustainability in the parks by increasing the revenue that they generate. As outlined previously, we will do this by investing in visitor centres, broadening our user fees, and entering into concession agreements for services in the parks, starting with the ten priority parks. As the parks generate more income, our cash outfl ows will include signifi cant expenditures on fi xed assets as we bring the parks on stream between 2018 and 2022. Sunset on the fl ats of the Westside National Park, Andros. These shallow water environments are often overlooked but are extremely productive, supporting many of our Bahamian fi sheries, including the bonefi shing industry. 49BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-202248 PARK STORIES 49 Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Biodiversity increases Park stories Sharing our impact Celebrating conservation leadership Inspiring investment By using diverse methods to share our accomplishments More people will understand our work and what we do Generating more appreciation and support for our work By showcasing our generous donors and partners We can generate new support and retain funders Generating more support for our work By showcasing the expertise and talents of BNT staff network More people will appreciate the quality of our work Generating more support for our work PARK STORIES Our Impact As you approach any pond in The Bahamas you will often hear the characteristic alarm from a Common Gallinule, alerting their peers and allies to pending danger. Likewise, the BNT continues to work on sharing the stories from our work to bring awareness to key biodiversity issues and gain support for these special places in the country. BNT is an important partner to Friends of the Environment as we collaborate efforts to promote and protect Abaco’s National Parks. If we didn’t conserve our diversity of ecosystems, Bahamians would lose out on the resources and experiences that are key to our culture and livelihoods. FRIENDS is proud to partner with BNT on helping to make sure that these valuable areas are set aside for future use and we look forward to planning for effective management of the Abaco parks. Cha Boyce, Executive Director Friends of the Environment Celebrating conservation leadership The Bahamian conservation community includes some of the brightest minds and dedicated environmentalists in the fi eld. Our goal is to celebrate their contributions and broadcast their efforts. Our goal is to inspire people to support national parks by telling them stories about their history, their beauty, the wild life they protect and the dedicated staff who work in service of them. We also want to showcase the philanthropists who support us. Inspiring investment in natural capital Sharing our impact We are the voice of the national parks system of The Bahamas. Our goal is to tell people about these unique spaces, the value they bring to their lives today and the benefi ts they hold for their tomorrow. We will use all types of communication media to spread this message. Strategic Priorities Constant communication with the community, our stakeholders and donors is key to keeping them engaged in our work. 50 BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-2022 51 Coming together to develop solutions to shared challenges, creating consensus around sustainability standards and sharing information have the potential to make lasting impact on resource scarcity, climate change and national park management. The BNT realizes and embraces the need to establish cross-sector partnerships in order to deliver the ambitious goals of our 2018 – 2022. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening existing partnerships and developing new collaborations with partners that share concern for the environment and value the biodiversity of The Bahamas. “Cross-sector partnerships are more important than ever to help protect the natural resources that fuel our prosperity and sustain our planet.” –World Wildlife Fund THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS We recognize and thank our partners with a view to future collaborations: Abaco Beach Resort ALIV American Bird Conservancy Aquacat Cruises Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research Asa H Pritchard Ltd Atlantis Resort BahaMar Bahamas Waste Bahamas Hot Mix Bahamas Wholesale Agencies Bahamas Ferries Baker’s Bay BirdLife International BREEF Breezes Resort Bahamas Bristol Wines and Spirits Bahamian Brewery Bonefi sh and Tarpon Trust BTC Cable Cares Foundation CANARI Caribbean Bottling Company Colina Commonwealth Bank Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) Department of Forestry Department of Marine Resources Eugene Dupuch Law School Freeport Harbour Company Friends of the Environment Global Environmental Fund (GEF) Global Parks Grand Bahama Airport Company Grand Bahama Port Authority Inter-American Development Bank International Field Studies (FORFAR) IUCN Kamalame Cay KPMG Lary Foundation Leon Levy Foundation Living Oceans Foundation Lyford Cay Foundation MacTaggart III Fund Ministry of Education Ministry of Tourism & Aviation Maillis and Maillis Moore Bahamas Foundation Morton Bahamas Ltd. National Audubon Society Oceans 5 Perry Institute of Marine Science RBC Foundation Royal Bahamas Defence Force Sandals Foundation Sandyport Resort San Salvador Living Jewels Sagoma Construction Scotiabank Stuarts Cove's Summit Insurance The BEST Commission The Government of The Bahamas TDG Architects The Nature Conservancy The PEW Charitable Trusts The Shedd Aquarium United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) University of Maryland University of The Bahamas University of Maryland - Omland Lab US Fish and Wildlife Service US National Park Service Waitt Foundation These young fl amingos will soon take fl ight. Morton Bahamas’ partnership with, and support of, the Inagua National Park will help to ensure that they soar. BNT STRATEGIC PLAN 2018-202252 PHOTOGRAPH CREDITS Catherine Booker Dominic Cant Shelley Cant-Woodside Heather Carey Kevin Davidson Lynn Gape Melissa Groo Colin Ruggiero Patricia Vazquez BNT OFFICES Bahamas National Trust Headquarters Bay Street Business Centre P.O. Box N-4105, Nassau, Bahamas Tel: 242 393 1317 Fax: 242 393 4978 Email: bnt@bnt.bs www.bnt.bs The Retreat Village Road P.O. Box N-4105, Nassau, Bahamas Tel: 242 393 1317 Primeval Forest National Park Hillside Place Nassau, Bahamas Tel: 242 -362- 6794 Abaco National Park Marsh Harbour, Abaco, Bahamas Tel: 242 367 6310 Fax: 242 367 6309 Andros BNT Office Staniard Creek, Central Andros Tel: 242-368-2221 Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park Warderick Wells, Exuma, Bahamas Park Office: 242 601 7438 Park Administrator: 242 359 0124 Inagua National Park Matthew Town, Inagua, Bahamas Tel: 242 339 2125 Fax: 242 339 2123 Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve Banks Road, Governor’s Harbour Eleuthera, Bahamas Tel: 242 332 3831 Lucayan National Park Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas Tel: 242 353 4149 Rand Nature Centre Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas Tel: 242 352 5438 Fax: 242 351 4192