International Day of Forests

Annually, the 21st March since 2012 had been declared the “International Day of Forests” (IDF) by the United Nations General Assembly. This was done to raise the awareness on the importance of Forests, their significance to us and the environment world over.

Under the 2023 theme “Forests and Health” the quest continues to heighten the awareness of forests and the reasons for preserving them. “Healthy forests for healthy people” is the focus this year and each year everyone around the world is encouraged to participate in activities such as tree planting campaigns.

Worldwide, there are three main types of forests that exist: Boreal, Temperate and Tropical. However, the temperate and tropical forests are further sub-categorized.

  • Tropical Forests are Evergreen Forests, Seasonal Forests, Dry Tropical, Montane, Tropical and Sub-tropical Coniferous, Sub-Tropical Forests, Moist, dry, mangrove, littoral, grassland and cactus Shrub;
  • Temperate Forests are Temperate Deciduous Forests and Temperate Coniferous Forests.

Forests serve us in many ways such as purifying water (streams, lakes, rivers, ponds and dams), clean the air, provide food, assist the planet to combat against Climate Change, and provide medicines.  Although, this ecosystem is vitally important unfortunately they are vulnerable and are at tremendous risks and threats such as fires, excessive logging, pests, droughts and many others.  Forests need our protection for our very own survival on this planet.

On Antigua and Barbuda, we have several types of forests.  These all fall within the “Tropical Forest category.

Type of Forest                                                       Some examples of place found

Moist                                                                              Christian Valley and Mt. Obama Area

Dry                                                                                  Wetherill Estate and Mill Reef

Mangrove                                                                      Cades Bay and North Sound

Littoral                                                                           Pot works

Cactus Shrub vegetation                                             Piccadilly

Grassland                                                                       Barbuda

Everyone is hereby reminded that clearing forested land without proper authorization from the Chief Forest Officer through the Forestry Unit is prohibited and illegal.  You are kindly asked to seek approval from the Forestry Unit within the Ministry of Agriculture before commencing any clearing, cutting, or felling of forest vegetation.

Let us continue to work together to preserve our nation’s Biodiversity.

For inquiries, please contact the Office at 268-764-1272.