Negril is indeed a remarkable area for many reasons and it is apparent that the vibrant citizens being keenly aware of this fact worked together to establish the EPA as Jamaica’s first gazetted Environmental Protection Area in 1997.

RPR is centered in the heart of the Negril Great Morass, the second largest stand of freshwater wetlands in Jamaica. This massive forest spans an area of 6000 hectares, critically important as it is the nucleus of the entire EPA. This wetland forest effectively acts as a filter, receiving freshwater from the aquifer recharge of the Fish River Hills to the east and sending it on to its ultimate destination in the Negril marine park in the West - a typical “Ridge to Reef” effect.

There are over 300 animal species to be found such as butterflies, dragonflies, reptiles including the endemic Jamaican pond turtle. A total of 52 bird species have been identified including the endemic Jamaican Woodpecker, Jamaican Oriole, Jamaica Euphonia, Parakeets and Red-Billed Streamer tailed Hummingbird. The majestic Royal Palm and Anchovy Pear are two endemic and distinct tree species characteristic of the wetland forest. 

As I marvel on these and other thoughts for and hour or so I decide that it is time to cool down with a swim. Now there are so many places perfect for that such as along the world renown 7 km Long Bay Beach strip, but I opt for the west end cliffs where I can enjoy the sunset and  snorkel.

At last I am there swimming in the brilliant turquoise Caribbean Sea, the soothing effects of the water literally therapeutic. The reefs are alive with activity as small schools of “tikki tikki” bob and weave through the reef crevices, a militant Sergeant Major fish salutes while a juvenile queen parrot fish casts a wary eye. Then there are the small saucy damsel fish defending their territory. Interestingly there are a lot of Diadema antillarium (Black Sea urchin) happily munching on the available menu of algae. This species is an important indicator of reef health and suggests that the reefs here are in a state of recovery.

The graceful sea fans wave a gentle farewell  It’s a pity I will not get to SCUBA dive before I leave, maybe then I would be able to see more of the colourful reef life and if  I was lucky a hawksbill turtle or family of bottle nose dolphins..

-Negril a small slice of paradise to be treasured and protected.

Miss Nadia-Deen Ferguson is the former Acting Executive Director of the Negril area Environmental Protection Trust (NEPT) with a Master of Philosophy in Marine Ecology and 4 years professional experience in environmental research and management, SCUBA diver, nature lover.