Enhanced Management and Monitoring of the Woburn–Clarkes Court Bay Marine Protected Area

March 29, 2026

The Woburn–Clarkes Court Bay Marine Protected Area is getting a major upgrade. Through a new project led by the Grenada Sustainable Development Trust Fund, enforcement, ecological monitoring, and sustainable livelihoods are being strengthened with a strong focus on gender equality and climate resilience. Discover how this initiative is setting a new standard for marine conservation in the Caribbean.

The Enhanced MPA Management and Monitoring of the Woburn–Clarkes Court Bay Marine Protected Area (WCCBMPA) project aims to transform Grenada’s largest marine protected area into a model for resilient, inclusive, and science-based marine conservation. The initiative strengthens enforcement, ecological monitoring, and sustainable livelihoods while integrating gender equality into marine resource management.

The project is implemented by the Grenada Sustainable Development Trust Fund (GSDTF) as part of the Caribbean Organizations for a Resilient Environment (CORE) initiative under the Gender-Smart Facility (GSF) of the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF). It is funded by Global Affairs Canada and the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, with the GSF representing a USD 3 million regional investment in gender-responsive climate resilience and biodiversity conservation initiatives.

Why This Project Matters

The Woburn–Clarkes Court Bay Marine Protected Area contains vital ecosystems including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds that support fisheries, protect coastlines, and sustain local livelihoods. Despite its legal designation, limited enforcement, outdated zoning, and insufficient monitoring have allowed environmental degradation and declining fish stocks.

At the same time, climate change and gender inequality are intensifying pressures on coastal communities, affecting fishers, vendors, and households who depend on marine resources. The project therefore integrates gender-responsive climate adaptation to ensure both women and men benefit equitably from conservation and livelihood opportunities.

Project Objectives

The project focuses on four integrated priorities:

1. Strengthening Enforcement and Governance
2. Restoring Reef Ecosystems
3. Supporting Sustainable Livelihoods
4. Building Community Awareness and Stewardship

Expected Results

By improving enforcement, ecological monitoring, and community engagement, the project will:

Increase reef fish biomass and ecosystem health
Establish a fully operational MPA management system
Create sustainable livelihood opportunities for coastal households
Improve awareness and compliance with marine protection regulations

Long-Term Impact The project will help create a climate-resilient and equitably managed marine protected area that safeguards biodiversity, strengthens coastal communities, and supports Grenada’s commitments to international environmental agreements and Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.

Fisherfolk