April 10th, 2025 – Long Island, Bahamas

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently hosted a community meeting in Clarence Town, Long Island, to engage the local community in the development of a management plan for Conception Island National Park (CINP). The session brought together residents, fishers, business owners, and community leaders to discuss conservation priorities, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration for the national park. 

Conception Island National Park, located northeast of Long Island, is one of the most ecologically significant national parks in The Bahamas. Established in 1964 and expanded in 2009 and 2021, the park protects Conception Island, Booby Cay, South Rocks, and their surrounding marine ecosystems. This remote national park is home to critical habitats that support several endangered and conservation-significant species. Its mangroves provide nursery grounds for juvenile green turtles and commercially important species such as Nassau Grouper and Queen Conch. The park’s shallow and deep reefs host a wide range of marine life, including the endangered Elkhorn Coral and one of the most extensive Monastrea reefs in the Caribbean. Its coastlines are important feeding and nesting grounds for resident and migratory birds, particularly seabirds like the White tailed tropicbird and various species of terns. 

The BNT is currently developing a management plan for CINP to guide conservation actions, address environmental threats, and ensure the sustainable use of the park’s resources. This plan will also reflect the values and priorities of local communities, making meetings like this one essential to shaping the future of the park.

During the meeting, participants shared concerns about illegal fishing, habitat disturbance, and the impacts of unregulated tourism. They also emphasized the need for increased enforcement, community education, and representation in decision-making.

The BNT outlined key goals for the management plan, including the creation of clearly defined park zones, protection of sensitive habitats like mangrove creeks and Elkhorn coral reefs, and improved monitoring through tools like drone technology. The organisation also outlined its plan to install more signage and physical boundary markers in the park. During the meeting, the BNT invited participants to share their views on whether CINP should be designated as a complete no-take zone. The overwhelming majority expressed strong support for this proposal, signaling a clear community consensus in favor of heightened protection – similar to the model used in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.

“This meeting is just the beginning of what we hope will be an ongoing and collaborative process,” said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, Executive Director of The Bahamas National Trust, who shared a lot of BNT’s plans during the meeting. “Long Island is a key stakeholder island in the future of Conception Island, and this community’s voice, knowledge, and vision must help shape how the park is managed and protected. When community members are involved from the start, we create stronger, more meaningful conservation outcomes, and we ensure that the park continues to benefit both the environment and future generations of Bahamians.”

As part of its next steps, the BNT plans to host additional meetings to engage other key stakeholder groups, including North Long Island, Rum Cay, and San Salvador. The BNT also announced its plans to soon establish an office and increase staff presence on Long Island, as well as host future educational and community activities. 

Once drafted, the management plan will be circulated for public review, with a 30-day period for community feedback and input. A full recording of the meeting can be viewed on The BNT’s YouTube page. Those interested in providing preliminary information to support the management plan process are encouraged to fill out the CINP Community Survey at www.bnt.bs/cinpmp. 

Financial support for the creation of the Conception Island Management Plan comes from the Blue Nature Alliance. This global partnership aims to safeguard global ocean biodiversity, build resilience to climate change, promote human well-being, and enhance ecosystem connectivity and function.

April 10th, 2025 – Long Island, Bahamas

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) proudly recognized Dillon Evans of Aquinas College for his exceptional achievement in the BNT’s “Cans for Kids” collection contest. Dillon’s dedication to environmental conservation earned him the top prize, solidifying his role as a young leader in sustainability efforts among his peers.

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), with support from The Builders Initiative (TBI), recently concluded two impactful workshops to build capacity among local fishers and promote long-term sustainability in Bahamian fisheries. The sessions, held on April 2nd and 3rd at the Clarence Town Community Centre, brought together commercial and subsistence fishers, and interested community members from across Long Island to strengthen their knowledge and practical skills in responsible fishing and diving safety.

The Fish Pot Construction Workshop, held on April 2nd, was led by trap-making expert Castwelt Mounts, who shared over 45 years of experience in fisheries and trap design. Participants received hands-on training in building more environmentally responsible fish pots designed to reduce bycatch and minimize damage to marine habitats. This workshop encouraged responsible fishing practices that help sustain fish populations and support healthier marine ecosystems.

The following day, the Diver Safety Training was facilitated by Capt. Omar Daley, a certified International Technical Nitrox Dive Instructor and former dive master at Stella Maris Inn. With a diving career spanning more than three decades, Daley guided attendees through the essential principles of safe diving, emergency preparedness, and best practices for commercial and subsistence divers. The presentation-based session focused on critical safety knowledge without requiring in-water participation.

Both workshops are part of an ongoing collaboration between the BNT and TBI to support fishers across The Bahamas through community-based outreach, education, and conservation training.

One participant shared: “I’ve been fishing for years, but I learned things today that will help me work smarter and protect the ocean at the same time. The instructors were very knowledgeable, and both of these workshops are something that was very needed.” 

“These workshops are aimed at empowering fishers to protect their livelihoods and marine resources,” said Tatyana Archer, Outreach Officer at The Bahamas National Trust. “By offering hands-on training and practical knowledge, we’re helping to build a stronger foundation for sustainability in our Family Island communities. We’re incredibly grateful to our instructors, our participants, and our partners at The Builders Initiative for making these sessions possible.”

This outreach with fishers on the island is especially timely, as the BNT is currently developing a management plan for Conception Island National Park, one of the most ecologically significant protected areas in the country. Long Island plays a vital role in the future of the park, both geographically and as a key stakeholder community. Engaging local fishers at this stage ensures that their knowledge, experiences, and priorities are reflected in the long-term stewardship of this important marine ecosystem.

Participants will receive certificates for completion, and each participant was able to keep the fish pot they constructed during the workshop. The BNT plans to continue hosting similar training sessions across The Bahamas to strengthen capacity and promote sustainable marine resource use as part of the Builders Initiative Project. 

The Builder’s Initiative Project aims to improve the management effectiveness of Bahamian Marine Protected Areas through science, technology, and stakeholder appreciation. 

March 24th, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) proudly recognized Dillon Evans of Aquinas College for his exceptional achievement in the BNT’s “Cans for Kids” collection contest. Dillon’s dedication to environmental conservation earned him the top prize, solidifying his role as a young leader in sustainability efforts among his peers.

The BNT successfully collected more than 2,000 pounds of aluminum cans from their “Cans for Kids” contest as part of their 2024 National Parks Day efforts last year. The environmental nonprofit hosts National Parks Day annually to celebrate Earth Day, encourage environmental sustainability, and inspire connection between people and nature. 

This year, National Parks Day will be held on April 26th. With the free public event rounding the corner, the BNT recently visited Aquinas College to award Dillon for his contribution to last year’s contest. 

Dillon successfully collected 11,000 aluminum cans, amounting to 364 pounds of recycled material. His hard work and commitment played a significant role in advancing the initiative’s mission to promote recycling and environmental responsibility within the community.

 The “Cans for Kids” initiative encourages young environmental stewards to actively participate in conservation by collecting and recycling aluminum cans. Dillon’s outstanding efforts not only helped reduce waste, but also set a shining example for other students to follow.

During the recent recognition visit to Aquinas College, BNT representatives commended Dillon for his passion and dedication to sustainability. Education Officer Shawn Saunders said: “We anticipate great things for Dillon’s future, and we hope his story encourages others to take action in protecting our environment.”

Dillon received a Samsung Galaxy tablet as his prize. Additionally, his school was awarded a floating trophy and his teacher won a gift basket and a $400 travel voucher. 

Dillon said: “It’s an honor to be able to make a difference and to know there’s something I can do to inspire others. Our school can be the stomping grounds for other young people and can guide them to becoming more environmentally aware.” 

The BNT extends heartfelt congratulations to Dillon and gratitude to all participants who contributed to the success of the “Cans for Kids” initiative, including sponsors Custom Computers and Micronet. 

The organization will once again be collecting cans as part of a recycling initiative leading up to National Parks Day this year. For more information about the “Cans for Kids” initiative and other environmental programs at the BNT, visit www.bnt.bs.

The BNT remains committed to fostering environmental stewardship among young people and looks forward to increased participation in sustainability programs in the future.

March 11th, 2025 – Grand Bahama, Bahamas

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) recently provided its Grand Bahama members the opportunity to learn about the Lucayan National Park’s (LNP) remarkable underwater cave systems at a special event hosted on February 18.

The BNT “Members’ Mingle” took place at the Rand Nature Centre (RNC), where renowned cave diver and ecologist Cristina Zenato and underwater photographer Kewin Lorenzen gave a unique educational presentation. 

Their captivating lecture took attendees on an informational deep dive into what is known to be one of the longest chartered underwater cave systems in the world – including the advanced technology used to study it and the role of conservation in protecting natural treasures and unique ecosystems like these. Zenato herself has spent more than 20 years doing extensive mapping of the caves at the LNP.

Guests learned about the intricate mapping and imaging techniques that allow scientists and photographers to document these delicate formations. Speakers Cristina Zenato and Kewin Lorenzen presented BNT Director of Parks Ellsworth Weir with a 3D-printed skull model – created using state-of-the-art photogrammetry techniques and photos taken within the LNP caves over time. This model will serve as a valuable educational tool for students, researchers, members, and park visitors, helping to further the part of the organization’s work that focuses on education as an essential component in conservation. 

 The Members’ Mingle allowed attendees to celebrate their shared love for preserving The Bahamas’ natural beauty. It serves as part of a wider effort to engage BNT members with like-minded individuals, inspire conversations within the conservation community, and create meaningful experiences within national parks. Caribbean Wines & Spirits provided delightful wine tastings for the event.

BNT’s Membership Officer for Grand Bahama, Jinnel Sturridge, said: “Through special events like these, BNT members gain special access to our national parks, unique learning experiences, and opportunities to contribute to conservation.

“We encourage everyone to join the BNT family today and be part of the movement to protect The Bahamas’ national parks. This event highlighted the importance of national parks and the incredible work being done to document and preserve them. BNT membership is an investment in the future of The Bahamas. Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who simply wants to give back, your membership helps safeguard our islands’ ecosystems for generations to come. By becoming a BNT member, you help ensure these national parks continue to thrive, providing safe spaces for people to enjoy our wonderful biodiversity.” 

The BNT extends its gratitude to Caribbean Wines & Spirits for its generous support of the event, as well as to their Grand Bahama membership community for attending the Members’ Mingle event.

February 27th, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas 

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) is relieved following the government’s announcement that a multi-million-dollar moorings project in the Exuma Cays has been abandoned, and calls for plans to establish and enforce stronger regulations before any such deals are made in the future.

In addition to the lack of transparency and public consultation regarding the proposed deal, the BNT had voiced numerous concerns early on to government officials, which remained partially unaddressed at the time of the project’s public disclosure.

Generally, mooring programmes can be a great way to support local communities, local government, and protected areas. In 2023, the BNT and the Elizabeth Harbour Conservation Partnership (EHCP) implemented a joint mooring programme for Moriah Harbour Cay National Park (MHCNP) and Elizabeth Harbour in Great Exuma. Proper approvals and stakeholder engagement were a key part of this project in its early phases, and continue to be an important part of park management decision-making.

The mooring programmes in MHCNP and Elizabeth Harbour are sustainable models that use environmentally-friendly moorings to ensure the protection of critical habitats, such as seagrass and coral reefs. By working together and with relevant government agencies, the partnership between the BNT and the EHCP will in the long term support the operations of pump-out services to eliminate the vexing issue of waste management in these high-traffic boating areas. It is not known if a privatized mooring programme would have the capacity to do this or be compelled to support such services. It is critical that any mooring programme that may be implemented in the future gives due care and consideration to such impacts and takes extensive measures to duplicate our sustainable efforts.

Moorings require substantial routine maintenance and oversight. A privatized network could have significant liability and environmental implications in the absence of national regulations to ensure this. As it stands, The Bahamas lacks the regulatory framework to impose accountability for such an undertaking. The idea of establishing a mooring network without sufficient regulatory standards in place is unfathomable and can directly impact the safety of the very areas the moorings are meant to help sustain. The fragile nature of our marine environment demands this gap be addressed as the first step before any proposed mooring network is established.

The BNT understands the environmental benefits of strategically placed, sustainably implemented, and properly maintained moorings, and we support their installation where necessary, practical, and regulated – especially where local communities benefit. The BNT hopes that, ultimately, the questions raised by the now-abandoned moorings deal – things like the necessity of the endeavor, the design of the mooring system, and the potential negative impact on sustainable revenue streams for national park operations and on local economies – will result in the implementation of national regulations and oversight of privatized mooring programmes.

February 5th, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas 

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) invited its members to join forces with Atlantis, the Rotary Club of East Nassau, and other partners this past weekend for a mangrove planting in honor of World Wetlands Day 2025. 

The environmental nonprofit, the community service organization, and other volunteers combined their efforts to plant 700 red mangroves at Bonefish Pond National Park on Saturday – 500 of which were donated by Atlantis. The Hon. Alfred Sears, Minister of Immigration and National Insurance, also participated. 

This recent mangrove planting supports ongoing restoration efforts for the national park, which is a vital wetland ecosystem that has historically been negatively impacted by the likes of dumping and other illegal activities. 

World Wetlands Day is an annual global event on February 2 that recognizes the importance of wetlands, raises awareness about the threats facing them, and encourages active solutions to save them. These critical ecosystems have an invaluable role to play in the fight against climate change, helping to drastically reduce carbon emissions. Mangrove wetlands, in particular, also act as nurseries for many of The Bahamas’ economically and culturally significant marine species, like spiny lobster; and provide protection from storm surges for surrounding communities.

This year, the world celebrated World Wetlands Day under the theme, “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future.”

“With this year’s theme, the BNT thought it fitting not only to involve our membership base, but to collaborate with the Rotary Club of East Nassau in an activity that drives home the point that we’re all in this together, and the work we do is for our common good,” said BNT President Joanne Smith. “As people of impact, we all want to help in this fight against climate change.” 

In total, more than 140  BNT members and volunteers participated in the weekend’s collaborative effort at Bonefish Pond. For more than a decade, the BNT has been leading restoration activities at the national park. These include things like mangrove plantings, coastal cleanups, and invasive species removal.

BNT Senior Science Officer Lindy Knowles said, “This is year 15 of the BNT’s 30-year plan for restoring this area. Today, we’re coming together to plant mangroves that are roughly between six months and a year old; and we’re hopeful all the work we’re doing will help get this area restored in less than the 30 years we have allocated for it.”

To learn more about the BNT’s mangrove restoration efforts, visit our mangrove conservation webpage at https://bnt.bs/mangroves.

February 3rd, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas 

On January 30, The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) celebrated its Lifetime Members with an event honoring their unwavering dedication to helping preserve the Bahamian environment. 

Attendees, which included Lifetime Members, BNT Council Members, corporate partners, and donors, gathered at Premier Cru for an evening featuring remarks from BNT President Joanne Smith and Executive Director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle. Both reflected on the impact of the organization’s Lifetime Members and longtime supporters, and promised exciting things to expect from the BNT in 2025. 

A highlight of the event involved the premiere of capstone projects from the BNT’s first Conservation Storytelling & Media (CSM) Internship, which concluded last summer. 

The capstone projects – created by CSM interns Lauren Ritchie and Quintez Bethel – showcased thought-provoking and beautifully-produced conservation stories that reflect both the unique beauty and fragility of The Bahamas’ environment, and inspire an urgency for ensuring our natural treasures are preserved for the future. The projects –  a short film by Ritchie and a photo essay by Bethel – received praise from attendees.

In addition to these presentations, immediate past BNT President and now Chair of the Advancement Committee, Geoff Andrews, officially announced the launch of a $1 million fundraising campaign to support the ongoing work of the organization. “The Andrews’ Family $1 Million Appeal” – named in honor of The Andrews’ family’s legacy of giving and commitment to the BNT – will focus on fostering a greater sense of ownership and personal responsibility towards Bahamian national parks, encouraging increased financial stewardship of these protected areas, and emphasizing the impact of collective giving on their critical management and advancement.  

Pointing out the role membership has to play in fulfilling this work, Executive Director Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle highlighted key milestones that have been achieved with membership support over the past two years:

“We’ve proudly expanded our national park system. We’ve advanced critical research on key species and habitats. We continue to make infrastructure improvements in parks, enhancing visitor access and recreational opportunities. And beyond these conservation wins, the true success of our work lies in the thousands of people we connect to national parks each year.

“Our Lifetime Members have shown an unwavering dedication to conservation and belief in our mission, and their steadfast support is the foundation upon which The Bahamas National Trust stands,” she added. “Tonight, I invite you to continue to stand with us as we forge a path toward a stronger, more resilient future for The Bahamas. Thank you for your unwavering support; for believing in the power of collective action; and for choosing to be part of this extraordinary journey with The Bahamas National Trust.”

BNT Council President Joanne Smith said, “We want every member to be an advocate for the BNT. That means offering inspiration, education, and meaningful opportunities to get involved. We must make it easy for them to be a part of this mission.

“It’s our job to show them why it matters. We must inspire them, engage them, and encourage them to contribute their time, energy, and resources to this cause—because together, we make the greatest impact.”

The BNT thanks Bahamas Waste, Caribbean Bottling Company, and Bristol for their contributions towards this event.

A date for a Lifetime Members celebration in Grand Bahama will soon be announced. 

To learn how to become a member of The Bahamas National Trust and support its mission, visit https://bnt.bs/get-involved/become-a-member/.

To view the CSM internship capstone projects online, visit www.bnt.bs/csmcapstones or follow the organization on social media.

February 5th, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas 

The power of storytelling in conservation cannot be overstated. Through film and photography, we can capture the beauty of our natural world, highlight urgent environmental challenges, and inspire action to protect what matters most. This belief is at the heart of the Conservation Storytelling & Media (CSM) Internship, a program by The Bahamas National Trust designed to empower young Bahamians to use media as a tool for conservation advocacy.

Over the past several months, the 2024 interns Lauren Ritchie and Quintez Bethel, explored the intersection of conservation and storytelling. Through immersive field experiences, mentorship, and hands-on media production, they developed impactful capstone projects that reflect their unique perspectives on conservation in The Bahamas. The capstone projects premiered at a special event hosted by The BNT for its Lifetime Members and were then released online. See their projects below:

 

 

Preserve Our Heritage, Protect Our Future – By Lauren Ritchie

A short film highlighting the profound connection between Bahamians and our natural environment.

Bahamian ecosystems once thrived, supported by a deep and respectful relationship between people and nature. Today, that balance is under threat—disrupted by exploitation and the growing impacts of climate change. In this compelling short film, Lauren explores this connection, showing how our cultural and ecological heritage are intertwined and why urgent action is needed to restore and protect our environment.

Watch Now

 

Through the Lens: Photography as a Tool for Conservation – By Quintez Bethel

A visual essay exploring how photography can inspire conservation action.

A single photograph can spark emotion, build awareness, and motivate people to protect the natural world. In his capstone project, Quintez shares a stunning collection of images capturing iconic Bahamian wildlife. His work demonstrates how conservation photography can forge connections between people and nature, ultimately amplifying the need to protect vulnerable species and their habitats.

Read Now

 

About the CSM Internship

The Conservation Storytelling & Media Internship was created to provide young Bahamians with hands-on experience in conservation media, blending technical skills with real-world environmental storytelling. Through national park visits, workshops, and mentorship, interns gain the tools they need to craft compelling narratives that engage and inspire audiences.

“Proud doesn’t even begin to describe the feeling of seeing Lauren and Quintez’s completed capstone projects. From the start, this internship was about giving young Bahamians the opportunity to tell conservation stories in ways that resonate, inspire, and drive action—and that’s exactly what they accomplished with their projects. Witnessing the public’s response to these projects reinforces why investing in the next generation of conservation communicators is so critical. We can do all the conservation work we want, but if we can’t inspire people to care, the mission falls short. Lauren and Quintez have created powerful narratives that inspire action, and we are incredibly proud of their work.” – Elijah Sands, BNT Senior Communications Officer and CSM Internship Coordinator. “

We invite you to explore their work, share their stories, and continue the conversation about how media can drive environmental action. The Internship was supported by the Wanderlust Foundation, Sean Connery Foundation, Perry Institute for Marine Science, Windsor School, Albany, International Field Studies – Forfar Field Station, Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, Friends of the Environment, Island School at the Cape Eleuthera Institute, Paul Nicklen and Cristina Mittermeier and other individual contributors and friends of The Bahamas National Trust.

January 16th, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas 

This past December, The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) celebrated its largest Festival Noël to date, welcoming 600 people to the Rand Nature Centre (RNC) in Grand Bahama for the highly-anticipated Christmas event.

One of three national parks managed by the BNT in Grand Bahama, the RNC grounds transformed into a spectacle of bright lights and festive decor under this year’s theme: “Light Up the Night at Festival Noël.”

Attendees enjoyed a blissful wine tasting experience, featuring a wide selection of beverages from around the world, courtesy of title sponsor Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits. They also had the opportunity to support small businesses, browsing a showcase of unique art and crafts from local artists and vendors. 

Festival Noël is Grand Bahama’s signature annual Christmas event, highlighting local talent and offering an evening of premium wine, fine art, tasty food, and exciting entertainment and prizes. 

Guests enjoyed the return of event staples, like the Chef Noël and Sweet Noël culinary competition, which allowed patrons to sample and savor culinary delights and vote for their favorite chef; the “Wheel of Joy” and “Antler Raffle” giveaways; and a gallery highlighting work from a special featured artist. Music from Top Tier Band – accompanied by Tony Lowe, Doranell Tiffany, Tyrone Brown, DJ Paradise, and sound engineer Clinton Gilbert – kept the dancefloor full and the evening alive.

This year’s featured artist, Nikita Turnquest Adonis Art, brought the ocean to the event with her exhibition, “The Aquarium of Life.” The immersive showing displayed Turnquest’s captivating and vivid paintings inspired by the ocean and marine life – “a tribute to survival, transformation, and resilience,” according to the artist.

The night held an assortment of prizes – including a tablet provided by Aliv, dinner for two at Stoned Crab Restaurant, and beautiful home decor from Island Bedding. 

Proceeds from Festival Noël always support the upkeep and advancement of Grand Bahama’s three national parks: the Rand Nature Centre, the Lucayan National Park (LNP), and Peterson Cay National Park. Last year’s funds enabled the paving of a new driveway at the front entrance to the RNC.  

“We deeply appreciate the exceptional support from the people, chefs, artists, artisans, and corporate community of Grand Bahama for this vital fundraiser,” said Jinnel Sturridge, BNT Grand Bahama Membership Officer and Festival Noël Committee Member. “In 2025 we’ll be celebrating the 30th anniversary of Festival Noël, and we’re committed to making the event even more exciting and impactful in raising funds for the national parks on Grand Bahama. We encourage everyone to not only support this event, but to become members of the BNT. Your membership ensures that your national parks thrive and are sustained for future generations.”

The BNT thanks the sponsors of Festival Noël 2024 for their generous support and commitment to making this event happen: Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits; Bahamian Brewery; Grand Bahama Port Authority; ALIV; Ministry of Tourism; Tourism Development Corporation; FOCOL; Bahama Wholesale Agency; Kelly’s Freeport; CG Atlantic Medical; Western Atlantic University School of Medicine; Grand Bahama Power Company; RBC Freeport; Caribbean Bottling; Pure Drinking Water and Ice; Earnst and Young; Sunny Isles; Crown Ice; HG Christie; GB Foods; Lucaya Nursery and Landscaping; and Doctors Hospital Grand Bahama.

Additionally, the BNT thanks these businesses for donating prizes for Festival Noël’s “Wheel of Joy” and “Antler Raffle:” Baha Mar; Stoned Crab Restaurant; Pandora; Island Bedding; Ocean Reef Resort Yacht Club; Delva’s Place AirBNB; Pizza Hut Freeport; Bonefish Tarpon Trust; BahaGala; GB Chiropractor; Paint Fair; Pure Water; ALIV; Kayak Nature Tours; Amoro Port Lucaya; Bodied by Johnny; Bones Bar; Coral Vita; Island Yoghurt; Kayak Nature Tours; Labelle; Paint Fair Ltd; The Fitness Connection; The Shoe Village; OMG Couture Boutique; and Pure Drinking Water and Ice Ltd.

January 16th, 2025 – Nassau, Bahamas 

The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) is proud to announce the release of its 2023-2024 Impact Report, which highlights key milestones achieved from January 2023 to June 2024.

Key highlights from the 2023-2024 Impact Report include:

• Completion of the BNT’s Strategic Plan  a comprehensive roadmap to guide the organization’s efforts towards 2029
• The declaration of Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera as the country’s 33rd national park 
• Advancements in critical scientific research and the creation of conservation plans aimed at protecting endangered species
• Major infrastructure improvements in parks, enhancing visitor access and recreational opportunities
• New strategic partnerships with local and national organizations for collaborative park management

The past 18 months have been a pivotal chapter for the BNT,” said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, Executive Director of The Bahamas National Trust. “With the unwavering support of our members, donors, and partners, we’ve expanded our national park system, advanced critical conservation efforts, made major infrastructure improvements in parks, and connected thousands of Bahamians to their parks. These achievements underscore the power of collaboration and inspire us to continue building a future where people and nature thrive together.”

Looking to the future, the BNT’s Strategic Plan provides a roadmap to guide the organization into 2029. The plan prioritizes enhanced park management, tackling climate resilience, addressing invasive species, and strengthening community partnerships to ensure the sustainability of The Bahamas’ national parks.

The Bahamas National Trust extends heartfelt thanks to its supporters for making these achievements possible and invites everyone to explore the full 2023-2024 Impact Report online on its website at www.bnt.bs/2023ir