Public Consultation for Ironwood Forest

Overview

The National Conservation Council (NCC) is inviting the public to review and provide comments on the proposal to protect the Crown Parcel (15B 392) within the Ironwood Forest, a 10.3-acre area of biodiverse dry forest and shrubland in central George Town, Grand Cayman.

Why your views matter

This area represents the largest remaining fragment of George Town’s ancient forest, supporting an exceptionally high diversity of native plants, three of which are unique to Grand Cayman, eight are unique to the Cayman Islands, and six are unique to the Greater Antillean region of the Caribbean; many of which are considered critically endangered globally.

98% of Cayman’s Old George giant bromeliads are found in this forest area, along with a significant population of the endemic Ghost Orchid; both of which are Part 1 protected species under the National Conservation Act, meaning they are protected at all times. The forest’s namesake, the Grand Cayman Ironwood tree (Chionanthus caymanensis longipetala), which served as essential home building material for early settlers, is also abundant in the elevated parts of the forest, with some mature trees within the forest likely being over 100 years old or more given their size. The mosaic of wetland and forest habitat, topography, natural water lens beneath, and microclimatic factors such as higher rainfall in the George Town area create a unique habitat that is not found anywhere else in the Cayman Islands.

The forest is strategically positioned within walking distance or short drive from 60 – 70% of the Cayman Islands student population. Protecting this forest area and sensitively developing walking trails and viewing areas within it to improve access for education and recreation presents a one-of-a-kind opportunity to develop a “Living Laboratory” to engage students of all ages in the natural environment of the Cayman Islands and the unique species found within this forest. As the UCCI and surrounding schools develop their biological sciences programs, having a pristine ecosystem readily accessible and adjacent to the campuses will be both a powerful teaching resource and basis for scientific studies, and a magnet for students interested in this study area.