The Convention on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty adopted on February 2, 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar, the Convention entered into force in 1975 and covers all aspects of wetland conservation and wise use recognising wetlands as ecosystems that are extremely important for biodiversity conservation in general and for the well being of human communities. To date the Caribbean countries of Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago are parties to the Convention.
The Graeme Hall Swamp is the last major intact mangrove remaining on the island of Barbados and is home to a large number of resident and migratory birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, crustaceans and other invertebrate species. Barbados is considering accession to the Convention and is considering sites for designation, which is a requirement for accession. Please refer to the official Ramsar website www.ramsar.org for further information.
- Background information pertaining to the wetlands in Barbados and the overall importance of their presence. A list of some of the species that reside in wetlands will also be included.