Building Biodiversity Capacity in Montserrat: Reflections on a Transformative Training Week
By The Official Development Assistance Overseas Territories Support Project Team
In our latest blog post, our Official Development Assistance Overseas Territories Support Project Team reflect on a recent week of training with conservation professionals from Montserrat.
Image 1: The Montserrat delegation and JNCC colleagues at JNCC's Quay House in Peterborough (photo credit: Eulyn Silcott Greaves).
In November 2024, we (JNCC) welcomed a group of conservation professionals from Montserrat to our Peterborough office for an intensive five-day training programme. This initiative, part of JNCC’s ongoing work in the UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs), was hosted in collaboration with the Government of Montserrat, the Environment Agency, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), and the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (UKCEH). The training was designed to enhance the participants’ skills and knowledge in biodiversity monitoring and ecosystem management, as well as the relationship between agricultural practices and the one health approach to sustainable management. This work was supported by UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) funds.
The training offered a blend of theoretical knowledge focused on field-based learning, and interactive discussions. Over the course of the week, participants explored topics ranging from the impact of agro-chemicals on biodiversity to innovative monitoring technologies. Sessions were designed not only to impart knowledge but also to encourage participants to think critically about how these concepts could be used to support the sustainable management of Montserrat’s natural resources. The programme began with an introduction to biodiversity management in Montserrat. Facilitators emphasised the critical importance of the Centre Hills Protected Area, a biodiversity hotspot, home to many endemic species. By covering elements of biodiversity monitoring and indicators this programme is also supporting ongoing JNCC-led work on developing an indicator that assesses the condition of ecosystems, habitats and species in the Centre Hills Protected Area. Through a series of workshops, participants gained a deeper understanding of how human activities, such as unsustainable farming practices, can harm these fragile ecosystems.
Rhoniil Sweeney-Lewis, Laboratory Technician with Montserrat Utilities and one of the participants, said: "I found this week's training and discussions very impactful, informing my thoughts on how, as a Laboratory Technician for the Water and Wastewater Division, we can work hand in hand with various sectors to promote consistent monitoring of biodiversity on the island”.
One highlight of the week was the 'ridge-to-reef' approach, which examines the interconnectedness of land and sea ecosystems and the importance of adopting integrated approaches to conservation, particularly for islands like Montserrat, where ecosystems are intricately linked.
Learning in Action: Field Visits to RSPB Reserves
Field visits played a pivotal role in the training, allowing participants to connect theoretical concepts with practical application. At RSPB Frampton Marsh, the participants observed wetland restoration techniques, including the creation of pools to support avian biodiversity. These practical experiences proved invaluable, inspiring participants to consider how similar practices could benefit Montserrat’s ecosystems.
Image 2: Monitoring wading birds at Frampton Marshes, formally farmland, now restored as a haven for avian fauna of all kinds (photo credit: Eulyn Silcott Greaves and Chris Sealys).
Ajhermae White, Environment Officer at Montserrat’s Department of Environment, shared her excitement: “This environmental monitoring was an intriguing experience. It inspired ideas that can be used in Montserrat, like using handheld devices for water quality testing. My favourite experience was seeing the avian biodiversity at Frampton Marsh.”
Another field visit to RSPB Headquarters provided insights into calculating multi-species indicators, citizen science approaches for monitoring biodiversity and techniques for invasive species monitoring. These practical and immersive experiences not only deepened participants’ understanding but also sparked ideas for innovative projects back home.
Chris Sealys, Conservation Officer at Monserrat National Trust, reflecting on the value of these sessions, noted: “The many thought-provoking interactions and valuable knowledge shared by the experts have increased my passion for biodiversity conservation. I look forward to sharing the knowledge acquired and putting into practice the new skills and understanding, especially those related to monitoring aquatic biodiversity.”
Image 3: The delegation arriving at RSPB The Lodge for a day of biodiversity monitoring training (photo credit: Eulyn Silcott Greaves and Chris Sealys).
Equipping Participants for Real-World Challenges
A core goal of the training was to empower participants with actionable skills and strategies. Sessions on project scoping, bid writing and transformative mapping, led by JNCC’s staff, provided essential guidance for securing funding and designing impactful conservation projects. Practical exercises helped participants refine their abilities to identify environmental problems, design solutions, and communicate these effectively to potential funders.
Ernestine Corbett, Director of Environment, at Montserrat’s Department of Environment, expressed gratitude: “I am thankful for the opportunity to see practical biodiversity monitoring in real-time. The realisation from this training is that strategic collaboration can circumvent inadequacies in skill sets and resource limitations in meaningful ways. This effort demonstrates Montserrat's commitment to biodiversity management.”
Building a Legacy of Conservation
As the training ended, participants reflected on their experiences and discussed how to apply their new skills in Montserrat. The week was not just about learning – it was about building confidence, partnerships and capacity for long-term impact. Attendees shared individual action plans, outlining how they would use their knowledge to enhance biodiversity monitoring and management on the island.
Stephon, a Trainee Forest Technician at Montserrat’s Department of Environment, said: “This JNCC-led biodiversity monitoring training was professionally organised with a lot of information on relevant topics such as human impact on the environment and how things can be better managed, with the proper know how, to find the right balance.”
Looking Forward with Optimism
The training was a resounding success, leaving participants inspired and better prepared to address Montserrat’s conservation challenges. But the journey doesn’t end here. JNCC and its partners are committed to supporting these efforts, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation in biodiversity conservation.
JNCC’s organiser, Dr Eleonora Manca, said: “This has been a huge team effort! I’m very grateful to colleagues from the JNCC Pollution Team, the Ecosystem Analysis Team and my team-members in the International Implementation Team, as well as partners in the UK and Montserrat, for their enthusiastic participation, for generously sharing their expertise and knowledge and making this a successful and enjoyable week.”
As Montserrat’s environmental stewards return to their island, they carry with them not only new skills but also a sense of shared purpose. Their work will be instrumental in protecting the island’s unique ecosystems for generations to come.