The Higuamo River basin covers about 440 square miles of lush subtropical forests and coastal wetlands. Its expansive mangrove forests contain all four species that live in the DR (red, black, white, and button) along with mahogany, majagua, and royal palm trees. Birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and crustaceans abound in and around the river. Dolphins, Hispaniola boas, and the critically endangered Antillean manatee are also spotted.

This vast area is threatened by pollution (mainly solid waste and effluent discharge), illegal logging, and development. The Higuamo River estuary was declared a wildlife refuge in 2019, but patrols and enforcement are spread thin. Most local people make their living by fishing or boat transport. They would like to start small-scale ecotourism businesses, but much of the habitat is too degraded.

Our project partner, the Multisectoral Coalition for the Conservation of the Higuamo River Basin, has tried to fill some of the gaps. For many years, it has monitored mangroves and water quality in the reserve. It works with communities on cleanups, and offer environmental and sustainable livelihood workshops. It also helps businesses and farmers improve their environmental practices.

With a Seacology grant, the Coalition will:

• Replant five acres of mangroves.
• Tackle cleanup and waste management. It will conduct ongoing campaigns with fishers, vendors, and other residents to address the root causes of the trash from both upstream and local sources.
• Install lights in four areas in the reserve that are particularly susceptible to mangrove cutting and poaching.
• Provide batteries for an inverter in the ranger station, to power communications equipment and lights.
• Build a gazebo with benches to aid community surveillance of the mangroves and serve as an open-air classroom for conservation education.