The Commonwealth of Dominica is one of the islands of the Lesser Antilles which is dominated by mountainous topography, unlike other islands, and thus known as the most heavily forested island of the Eastern Caribbean. With nine volcanos and seven mountain ranges Dominica possesses the best remaining examples of volcanic island ecosystems in the Caribbean. The forest is the habitat of a considerable variety of birds and animals. Having in mind diversified functions of forests and natural resources, as well the mandate of the Forestry, Wildlife, and Parks Division which goes beyond the domain of forest management, the connectedness of the forest sector to other sectors of the economy is multiple and causal. Therefore, this updated National forest policy is aligned to all existing cross-sectoral strategies, policies, and plans and is envisioned to be a living document that operates on an iterative process that continuously reflects positive changes in the environment. Recognizing the forest resources as the best opportunity to enhance socio-economic development in Dominica, while making significant contributions in the field of climate change mitigation, this National forestry policy is a long-awaited tool seen as a guide to sustainable use and management of forests.
