The Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources recently held Town Hall Meetings on the National Forest Bill, which comprises proposed law to establish a Department of Forestry to strengthen the management, conservation, and sustainability of forests of The Bahamas.

Meetings in New Providence were held on Monday evening, February 9, 2026 at Sybil Strachan Primary School and on Tuesday evening, February 10, 2026 at Doris Johnson High School.   Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources, the Hon. Zane Lightbourne was present at the Tuesday meeting.  Leader of the Bahamas Forestry Unit, Ms. Danielle Hanek, at both meetings, gave presentations on the establishment of the Department of Forestry.

The Bill is designed to establish a robust framework for the management, conservation, and development of forests in The Bahamas.  It would transition the existing Forestry Unit into the Department of Forestry, with expanded powers and responsibilities.  It provides for the establishment of a National Forest Estate, comprising forest reserves and conservation forests, towards ensuring suitable management and protection of forest resources.  Measures aim to safeguard the country's natural resources while promoting responsible forestry practices.

The Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources recently held Town Hall Meetings on the National Forest Bill, which comprises proposed law to establish a Department of Forestry to strengthen the management, conservation, and sustainability of forests of The Bahamas. Meetings in New Providence were held on Monday evening, February 9, 2026 at Sybil Strachan Primary School and on Tuesday evening, February 10, 2026 at Doris Johnson High School.   Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources, the Hon. Zane Lightbourne was present at the Tuesday meeting.  Leader of the Bahamas Forestry Unit, Ms. Danielle Hanek, at both meetings, gave presentations on the establishment of the Department of Forestry. The Bill is designed to establish a robust framework for the management, conservation, and development of forests in The Bahamas.  It would transition the existing Forestry Unit into the Department of Forestry, with expanded powers and responsibilities.  It provides for the establishment of a National Forest Estate, comprising forest reserves and conservation forests, towards ensuring suitable management and protection of forest resources.  Measures aim to safeguard the country's natural resources while promoting responsible forestry practices.

On Friday, 16 January 2026, the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) awarded C.R. Walker Senior High School with the internationally recognized Green Flag Award during a special assembly at the school. This achievement was celebrated by the Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources Zane Lightbourne, and the Director of Education Mrs. Dominique McCartney-Russell.

Following comprehensive and enthusiastic presentations by students, and methodical assessment by Eco-School Bahamas Assessors, it was determined that C.R. Walker Senior High School successfully completed all requirements and was certified as a Green Flag school.

This is a remarkable achievement, as C.R. Walker is the first government school in New Providence to earn this distinction. The Eco-Schools Green Flag Award is internationally recognized as a symbol of excellence in environmental education and reflects a school’s commitment to environmental leadership, meaningful student-led action, community engagement, and alignment with global sustainability goals. C.R. Walker Senior High School students now join students in 101 countries around the world who have achieved their Eco-School Green Flag.

Uriel Knowles, CR Walker Eco-Club President said, “ Through dedication, collaboration, and consistent effort, our school worked to create a cleaner, more environmentally responsible campus. The achievement of the Green Flag reflects our commitment to our school’s C.R. Walker Knights Eco Code: “The Protectors of the Earth and our continued responsibility to lead by example within our school and wider community”.”

Accepting the award on behalf of her school and community, Ms. Triver Culmer, C.R. Walker’s principal stated, "Our children must learn the importance of taking care of the environment of which they are a part. We are pleased as a school to have taken steps to become an Eco-friendly environment and now the goal is to maintain it."

C.R. Walker’s Eco-Club implemented several initiatives that contributed to the school’s achievement of the Eco-Schools Green Flag accreditation, with a strong focus on enhancing the school grounds. Club members established and maintained a greenhouse, and created a green space on campus for students to enjoy.

Mrs. Johnette Ferguson-Morris, Eco-School Coordinator "It is an honor to be able to say that C. R. Walker Senior High School is officially the first Government School on New Providence to receive the prestigious Green Flag becoming an Eco-School. The Eco-Club at C. R. Walker Senior High School has proven to be a tremendously effective program since its inception. Students have shown motivation and a desire to learn more about the environment. We are teaching our students to create a sustainable future. I am grateful for the support we receive from our Principal Ms. Culmer, Administrators, teachers, support staff, parents, students and our community partners recognizing that being "environmentally conscious" is not something you do once; it is a lifestyle that promotes sustainable life on earth for everyone!" According to Eco-School Bahamas National Operator Nicola Fernander, "I am especially proud to recognize C.R. Walker Sr. High School as the first Government School in New Providence to attain this prestigious international accreditation. This milestone sets a powerful precedent and serves as an inspiration to other schools across The Bahamas to embrace sustainable practices and environmental responsibility." In her remarks Director McCartney-Russell said “One of the core goals of the Ministry of Education is to foster environmental stewardship among our students and certainly our school communities. And so this designation is certainly in alignment with our mandate. It is our vision that all schools, the 161 public schools, embrace the Eco School framework.” BREEF’s Eco-Schools network is spread over six islands and consists of 26 government and 28 private schools. Since 2009 the BREEF has been running the Eco-Schools Bahamas programme free of charge through the generous support of BREEF donors. To learn more about BREEF’S Eco-Schools Bahamas programme and its work in promoting the conservation of the Bahamian marine environment, please email breef@breef.org On Friday, 16 January 2026, the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) awarded C.R. Walker Senior High School with the internationally recognized Green Flag Award during a special assembly at the school. This achievement was celebrated by the Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources Zane Lightbourne, and the Director of Education Mrs. Dominique McCartney-Russell. Following comprehensive and enthusiastic presentations by students, and methodical assessment by Eco-School Bahamas Assessors, it was determined that C.R. Walker Senior High School successfully completed all requirements and was certified as a Green Flag school. This is a remarkable achievement, as C.R. Walker is the first government school in New Providence to earn this distinction. The Eco-Schools Green Flag Award is internationally recognized as a symbol of excellence in environmental education and reflects a school’s commitment to environmental leadership, meaningful student-led action, community engagement, and alignment with global sustainability goals. C.R. Walker Senior High School students now join students in 101 countries around the world who have achieved their Eco-School Green Flag.

Exuma alliance welcomes judicial review of Miami-based Yntegra’s Rosewood project, calling it a ‘chance to review and reconsider’ controversial project with proposed placement

An alliance of concerned Exuma businesses, small island operators and residents today welcomed a court decision allowing a legal review of the proposed Yntegra/Rosewood project, calling it “a golden opportunity to review and reconsider the controversial project” they say would forever change the nature of the Central Exuma cays.

The Save Exuma Alliance (SEA) issued the call for a ‘thorough review” of the proposed Sampson Cay project following media reports that the Supreme Court granted the judicial review on Tuesday, December 2. Justice Leif Farquharson granted Turtlegrass Resort permission to proceed with the challenge, which argued that the process by which the certificate of environmental clearance (CEC) was “fundamentally flawed”. The request for judicial review has also been requested by the neighboring Over Yonder Cay.

“We welcome the Supreme Court allowing a review of the process used to give Yntegra environmental approval for the Rosewood project,” SEA said in a statement. “This gives us a chance to understand how the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) conducted its environmental analysis and considered the local community in making its decision. We hope the result of the judicial review will allow local residents to provide more input about what they want, and what they think about this project.”

SEA is a local coalition of local businesspeople, leaders and residents from the community neighbouring the proposed development. The development includes plans for dredging that would affect a 15-acre seagrass meadow and the construction of a 390-foot seawall that would affect tidal flows in the area.

“We have heard from people all across Exuma who are concerned about the damage this project could cause – and more than 7,000 people have signed a petition calling for the approvals to be halted. We believe this is a chance for the developers to reconsider how this project could be done without the damage that has raised so much concern among locals. We are entirely in favour of development that can boost the Exumas.  If Yntegra will listen to our concerns in widespread consultation, it is a chance to find a way to go forward without harming the environment,” said SEA.

SEA added: “There are very good reasons for taking a moment and rethinking. As well as more than 7,000 people signing the petition, there has also been a survey by ORG which shows 96 percent of local Exumians want the environment protected. The survey also shows that 75 percent are worried about that seawall. We hope this encourages the developer to take a moment, talk to the locals who will be affected by this and do the project the right way.”

SEA said the judicial review will also be a test of the nation’s environmental credentials, adding: “This is not just important to Exuma, it is important to the whole of The Bahamas. This can be a test case for how seriously the country takes environmental protection. Exuma can set a precedent, to show how we can make sure there is real protection for the environment.”

Locals are encouraged to continue to raise their voices. The pause in this process shows that speaking up gets results. You can sign the petition at https://www.change.org/stopsampsoncayproject or follow the link from the SEA website, www.saveexumaalliance.org. For more about the ORG survey, visit https://www.saveexumaalliance.org/news/communitysurveyinsights.

Exuma alliance welcomes judicial review of Miami-based Yntegra’s Rosewood project, calling it a ‘chance to review and reconsider’ controversial project with proposed placement An alliance of concerned Exuma businesses, small island operators and residents today welcomed a court decision allowing a legal review of the proposed Yntegra/Rosewood project, calling it “a golden opportunity to review and reconsider the controversial project” they say would forever change the nature of the Central Exuma cays. The Save Exuma Alliance (SEA) issued the call for a ‘thorough review” of the proposed Sampson Cay project following media reports that the Supreme Court granted the judicial review on Tuesday, December 2. Justice Leif Farquharson granted Turtlegrass Resort permission to proceed with the challenge, which argued that the process by which the certificate of environmental clearance (CEC) was “fundamentally flawed”. The request for judicial review has also been requested by the neighboring Over Yonder Cay. “We welcome the Supreme Court allowing a review of the process used to give Yntegra environmental approval for the Rosewood project,” SEA said in a statement. “This gives us a chance to understand how the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) conducted its environmental analysis and considered the local community in making its decision. We hope the result of the judicial review will allow local residents to provide more input about what they want, and what they think about this project.” SEA is a local coalition of local businesspeople, leaders and residents from the community neighbouring the proposed development. The development includes plans for dredging that would affect a 15-acre seagrass meadow and the construction of a 390-foot seawall that would affect tidal flows in the area. “We have heard from people all across Exuma who are concerned about the damage this project could cause – and more than 7,000 people have signed a petition calling for the approvals to be halted. We believe this is a chance for the developers to reconsider how this project could be done without the damage that has raised so much concern among locals. We are entirely in favour of development that can boost the Exumas.  If Yntegra will listen to our concerns in widespread consultation, it is a chance to find a way to go forward without harming the environment,” said SEA. SEA added: “There are very good reasons for taking a moment and rethinking. As well as more than 7,000 people signing the petition, there has also been a survey by ORG which shows 96 percent of local Exumians want the environment protected. The survey also shows that 75 percent are worried about that seawall. We hope this encourages the developer to take a moment, talk to the locals who will be affected by this and do the project the right way.” SEA said the judicial review will also be a test of the nation’s environmental credentials, adding: “This is not just important to Exuma, it is important to the whole of The Bahamas. This can be a test case for how seriously the country takes environmental protection. Exuma can set a precedent, to show how we can make sure there is real protection for the environment.” Locals are encouraged to continue to raise their voices. The pause in this process shows that speaking up gets results. You can sign the petition at https://www.change.org/stopsampsoncayproject or follow the link from the SEA website, www.saveexumaalliance.org. For more about the ORG survey, visit https://www.saveexumaalliance.org/news/communitysurveyinsights.

The developer behind the Rosewood Exuma project has made some questionable comments about a survey claiming it has a majority of support from the community – when that is not what the survey shows.

 Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), a coalition of local businesspeople, leaders and residents from the community neighboring the proposed development,  pointed out that a post on the development’s social media claimed that “most residents in Black Point and Staniel Cay view the Sampson Cay project as positive for their community and want it to start now” – despite that claim not being backed by the survey.

The post said: “Over 72% of Exuma Cays residents support the Sampson Cay project.”

However, that is not the actual finding of the independent Exuma Cays survey, conducted by the Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG), a non-profit group.

The survey asked residents of Staniel Cay and Black Point whether they had a positive, negative or neutral view of the proposed development. The results showed 34.6% positive, 37.9% neutral, and 27.4% negative. “Miami group Yntegra is stating that 72% of residents support their Rosewood Hotels project on Sampson Cay. Except, that is not what the survey shows at all,” said SEA.

“To get ‘72% support’, you have to add the positive and neutral numbers together. Being neutral about something does not equal supporting it. It seems that they are trying to gloss over the details of the survey, similar to how they are communicating about their project. This is very basic – if they are claiming support they do not have, what else are they distorting?”

The survey results also raised other concerns about the project – with 96% of residents wanting the environment protected, and three out of four people (75%) worried about the impact on the area of the 390ft seawall that has been approved by the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) as part of the planned project.

In addition, 72% of the local community members who took part in the survey are concerned about plans for dredging for the project that would be detrimental to the existing healthy seagrass, coral and juvenile conch in the area.

The survey also shows that more people prefer a smaller, low-impact development model over the larger resort design that uses a lot of dredging, and that decisions over Crown land use must include proper consultation and enforceable environmental safeguards.

SEA said: “With only one-third of the population feeling positive about the project and an overwhelming majority expressing concern about the massive seawall, the dredging, how Crown land is used, and the kind of development model people want – it is hard to understand how Yntegra can justify these statements. The community cares about opportunity, but not at any cost. The priorities of the community living near this development are protection of the sea, fair process, and development that fits the central Exuma Cays, not development that tries to change them so a foreign developer can turn a profit.”

SEA added: “It is unfortunate that such misleading comments about a reputable and unbiased survey have been circulated. This community deserves better. Don’t let anyone mislead you – see for yourself,  the full results and  every question are publicly available, with some insightful comments from those interviewed.”

The complete survey report is available at https://www.saveexumaalliance.org/news/communitysurveyinsights.

A petition calling for a halt to environmental clearances for the project has received more than 7,000 signatures. You can add your name to the petition at https://www.change.org/stopsampsoncayproject

The developer behind the Rosewood Exuma project has made some questionable comments about a survey claiming it has a majority of support from the community – when that is not what the survey shows.  Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), a coalition of local businesspeople, leaders and residents from the community neighboring the proposed development,  pointed out that a post on the development’s social media claimed that “most residents in Black Point and Staniel Cay view the Sampson Cay project as positive for their community and want it to start now” – despite that claim not being backed by the survey. The post said: “Over 72% of Exuma Cays residents support the Sampson Cay project.” However, that is not the actual finding of the independent Exuma Cays survey, conducted by the Organisation for Responsible Governance (ORG), a non-profit group. The survey asked residents of Staniel Cay and Black Point whether they had a positive, negative or neutral view of the proposed development. The results showed 34.6% positive, 37.9% neutral, and 27.4% negative. “Miami group Yntegra is stating that 72% of residents support their Rosewood Hotels project on Sampson Cay. Except, that is not what the survey shows at all,” said SEA. “To get ‘72% support’, you have to add the positive and neutral numbers together. Being neutral about something does not equal supporting it. It seems that they are trying to gloss over the details of the survey, similar to how they are communicating about their project. This is very basic – if they are claiming support they do not have, what else are they distorting?” The survey results also raised other concerns about the project – with 96% of residents wanting the environment protected, and three out of four people (75%) worried about the impact on the area of the 390ft seawall that has been approved by the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP) as part of the planned project. In addition, 72% of the local community members who took part in the survey are concerned about plans for dredging for the project that would be detrimental to the existing healthy seagrass, coral and juvenile conch in the area. The survey also shows that more people prefer a smaller, low-impact development model over the larger resort design that uses a lot of dredging, and that decisions over Crown land use must include proper consultation and enforceable environmental safeguards. SEA said: “With only one-third of the population feeling positive about the project and an overwhelming majority expressing concern about the massive seawall, the dredging, how Crown land is used, and the kind of development model people want – it is hard to understand how Yntegra can justify these statements. The community cares about opportunity, but not at any cost. The priorities of the community living near this development are protection of the sea, fair process, and development that fits the central Exuma Cays, not development that tries to change them so a foreign developer can turn a profit.” SEA added: “It is unfortunate that such misleading comments about a reputable and unbiased survey have been circulated. This community deserves better. Don’t let anyone mislead you – see for yourself,  the full results and  every question are publicly available, with some insightful comments from those interviewed.” The complete survey report is available at https://www.saveexumaalliance.org/news/communitysurveyinsights. A petition calling for a halt to environmental clearances for the project has received more than 7,000 signatures. You can add your name to the petition at https://www.change.org/stopsampsoncayproject