The EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN) is proud to report the successful completion of its youth-centered ecological tour to Antigua and Barbuda’s RAMSAR Site established in 2005, the Codrington Lagoon National Park. This tour, held in recognition of World Wetlands Day 2026, brought together seventy (70) participants from Antigua and Barbuda, including environmental enthusiasts, students, and teachers from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS), as well as members of local environmental organizations such as IHO Nature Rangers, Scrub Life Cares, and Adopt-a-Coastline. Twenty-four (24) Barbudan Youth Participants joined in the activity and shared their media expertise by capturing the momentous occasion. For many Antiguan participants, it was their first time to the sister island.
This immersive educational experience was centered on the Codrington Lagoon National Park, a wetland of international significance and one of the Caribbean’s most important ecological and cultural landscapes. Participants explored the lagoon and its surrounding wetland ecosystems, including seagrass beds, gaining insight into the dynamic role wetlands play in biodiversity, climate resilience, and community well-being.
The tour included a guided visit to the Magnificent Frigate Bird Sanctuary, where community members laid eyes on the nesting colony for the first time. As the visit was conducted during mating season, the male frigate bird could be easily seen with its red gular pouch poised to allure a female mate. Nest-building by male frigate birds, and white fluffy new-borns from the single egg laid were a sight to behold. It was a moment of awe, which additionally prompted many eager questions from participants.
ESFN, dedicated to conservation activities, noted from stakeholders the need for additional research and data gathering on the Magnificent Frigate Bird Colony and will be engaging community members in Barbuda to fill this gap. Community members noted that while groups visit and conduct research, data is rarely shared back for local knowledge. ESFN is hoping to change this through citizen science interventions.
Additional stops included the Pink Sand Beach, which had experienced ground swells, demonstrating the impact of coastal erosion on the shoreline. Upon being alerted, an expeditionary group visited the second breach that has now occurred in Barbuda. Additional research and monitoring will be needed to guide feedback to partners and stakeholders on this new development. The previous, longstanding breach would have taken place in 2017 following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Irma and has remained open since then causing environmental concerns for this delicate ecosystem.
Other notable stops included the BarbudanGO project areas of the restored Ownly Well, and Low Pond areas, where a mangrove nursery is constructed to support environmental protection by the community. Through these experiences, youth learned firsthand about the lagoon’s ecological features, wildlife conservation, and the natural processes that shape Barbuda’s coastal landscapes.
Aligned with this year’s World Wetlands Day theme,“Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage,” the RAMSAR Site tour integrated lessons on the cultural, economic, and historical significance of these ecosystems to Barbudan and Antiguan communities. Through discussions and direct engagement, participants explored how traditional knowledge can guide conservation practices and inspire sustainable stewardship of natural resources.
The community engagement aspect is grounded in themes of:
- Citizen science
- Climate resilience
- Community well-being
- Gender justice
- Environmental justice
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiasm shown by both Antiguan and Barbudan youth,” said Britney McDonald, Portfolio Manager at ESFN. “This tour was an opportunity for young people to connect with our natural heritage, understand the value of wetlands, and see themselves as future custodians of these ecosystems united. By combining ecological learning with community engagement, we hope to inspire lasting action and care for both people and nature.”
The success of this initiative underscores ESFN’s commitment to youth leadership, environmental education, and cultural preservation. By bringing together students, local organizations, and community members, ESFN continues to foster the next generation of environmental scientists, and advocates equipped with knowledge, purpose, and a deep connection to Antigua and Barbuda’s unique natural heritage.
EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network appreciates the support of partners like the IUCN Wise Use of Caribbean Wetlands Project in conducting its Wetlands Day Activities. Their support enabled youth to explore their creativity through the Creative Young Voices Competition and the Codrington Lagoon National Park RAMSAR Site while learning about the ecological importance of wetlands and their connection to Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural and environmental heritage.
A special thank you to the team at Hillside Tours in Barbuda and Sea Bridge Ltd. for their excellent hospitality and support of the cultural exchange.
About EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network
The EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN) is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability, environmental conservation, and community empowerment across Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and the Southern United States. ESFN works to address key challenges, including climate justice, biodiversity, youth development, technology innovation, and education. Through initiatives such as the ESFN Volunteer Explorer Program, World Wetlands Day Awareness, Build Your Future, Community Swim Program, and the Endeavour Publication. ESFN fosters innovative solutions and inspires action to protect marine and coastal ecosystems. ESFN strives to create a more resilient and sustainable future for all. ESFN has committed to supporting creative media and cultural expression of vulnerable communities, with a focus on youth.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
