Linda Johnson-Bhola

By Linda Johnson-Bhola

Mangrove forests in Guyana are recognized as the most important soft-engineering structure that protects the low-lying coastal areas against wave and wind actions. However, this vegetation has become severely degraded along some sections of the coast as a result of excessive exploitation and the dynamic nature of the coastline. In an attempt to protect and manage the mangrove ecosystem, the Government of Guyana has instituted a number of mechanisms, including the Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project (GMRP). However, the effectiveness of these instruments has been impaired by the different types of land tenure systems. The study aimed at exploring the inter-relationships between land use and tenure issues, and the sustainable management of mangroves in selected villages in Corentyne, Guyana with a view in determining plausible remedies. The study used a mixed-methods approach, involving Google Earth technology, observation, in-depth interviews, and questionnaire surveys. The results showed that while land use has not changed significantly over the past decade, the advancement and proliferation of mangroves on privately owned lands were quite noticeable. This has given rise to a new area of conflict between managers of coastal mangrove forests and land owners and small-scale traditional users, signifying an urgent need for policy reform.

Part of the book: Land Use Change and Sustainability

By Linda Johnson-Bhola

Destruction and threats to coastal mangrove ecosystems have been a perennial problem for policy-makers in Guyana. The problem is due in part to the erosion cycles, spontaneous infrastructure development and environmental degradation. To address these multiple issues, the National Mangrove Project Office employed several different strategies, including public awareness programmes. Despite the efforts, the issues continue to plague the country. The aim of this paper was to illustrate the efficacy of zoning and regionalization for combating the problems associated with mangrove ecosystem degradation at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. A survey of the literature and analysis of selected documents were done and ArcGIS Pro and remote sensing were applied to the case study. The results showed that while efforts could undoubtedly have a positive impact on mangroves at Mon Repos in terms of sustaining ecosystem services, facilitating livelihood opportunities and addressing the waste management issue, the effectiveness of such actions is likely to be impeded by the lack of real-time data. To adequately address these issues, the collection and use of more accurate and up-to-date scientific from the application of Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing and implementation of a multiple-use conservation zoning plan are among the strategies recommended for implementation.

Part of the book: Land-Use Management