Growing Stronger Economies through Healthy Forests
As the world celebrates International Day of Forests 2026 under the theme “Forests and Economies,” Jamaica proudly reflects on the profound role our forests play in shaping the nation’s prosperity, resilience, and sustainable future. From the verdant
Blue Mountain Forest Reserve to the natural open dry forests of southern parishes and the vibrant mangroves that fringe our coasts, every forest type contributes to Jamaica’s economic heartbeat.
Forests are much more than scenic backdrops. They are productive economic assets. Eco‑tourism, one of Jamaica’s fastest‑growing industries, thrives on the natural beauty and biodiversity of our protected areas. Visitors come to hike, birdwatch, explore waterfalls, and learn from forest experiences and traditions, generating income and employment for rural communities. Our forests, like Bogue 2 Forest Reserve in St. Ann, are the source of many rivers that feed into communities and tourist attractions like the Dunn’s River Falls and Park, which visitors and Jamaicans escape to for rejuvenation and enjoyment.
Our mangrove forests support fisheries by providing critical nursery habitats for commercially important species, while reducing coastal erosion and shielding coastal infrastructure. Plantation forests supply renewable timber through legally regulated harvesting, supporting local licensed sawmillers and artisans and reducing reliance on imported materials. Meanwhile, healthy watershed forests protect the island’s water supply, reduce disaster risk, and create the environmental stability necessary for every sector from agriculture to tourism to thrive.
Ainsley A. Henry, CEO & Conservator of Forests, reaffirms the Forestry Department’s commitment to its mandate to normalise and enhance sustainable forest management in support of Jamaica’s growth, resilience and economic development. He says, “Our forest management plans are a collaborative effort, they are developed with all stakeholders and most importantly with those communities closest to our forests. It is through partnership and collaboration that communities are empowered through Local Enterprise Development to reduce dependence and stress on forest resources, which may lead to degradation.”
The Agency also takes a proactive approach through our Adopt-a-Trail Programme, which facilitates public and private sector partnership for trail establishment, rehabilitation, infrastructure development, signage and maintenance. “The Agency envisions a trail network spanning the island that enhances opportunities for eco-tourism activities for Jamaicans and visitors alike while enabling local economic development and revenue generation for the Agency.” He continues by remarking, “Our forests are among our most valuable resources, which if sustainably managed, can catalyse our country’s social and economic development by leaps and bounds.”
This year, the Forestry Department also highlights the transformative potential of the Reforestation, Ecological Enhancement and Landscape Framework (RE-LEAF), an initiative developed by the Forestry Department to serve as the operational framework for the post-hurricane forest recovery and long-term environmental sustainability. RE‑LEAF strengthens climate resilience, restores degraded lands, expands green spaces, and supports long‑term economic security by protecting the natural capital on which our livelihoods depend.
Honourable Matthew Samuda endorses RE-LEAF: “Through initiatives like the RE-LEAF programme, we are actively rebuilding and expanding our forest cover, ensuring that future generations inherit a greener, more resilient Jamaica. The Government remains steadfast in its support of these efforts, as we continue to position our forests as a cornerstone of sustainable development and national prosperity.”
As we mark this global observance, we call on all of Jamaica—communities, schools, private sector partners, and citizens—to rise to the occasion. Let us support forest conservation through sustainable use, responsible choices, and active participation in RE-LEAF activities. Together, we can, we must secure Jamaica’s forests today to sustain our economy tomorrow.
Photo caption: Lorna Williams (left) chairperson of the Northern Cockpit Country Local Forest Management Committee (LFMC) observes as Cherlyn Reid-Samuels, Forest Technician at the Forestry Department displays a honeycomb during an apiculture training in Duanvale, Trelawny.
