KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust (JCDT) is encouraging citizens to come together to protect the Blue and John Crow Mountains.

Park Ranger with JCDT, Anthony King, made the call against the backdrop of growing environmental challenges, such as deforestation and climate change, and illegal activities such as poaching and logging.

The Blue and John Crow Mountains, Jamaica’s first United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site, stand as a symbol of natural beauty, cultural heritage and ecological significance.

Speaking during a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) “Think Tank” at the agency’s headquarters in Kingston on Thursday, King informed that citizens can play an active role in preserving this valuable landscape by “practicing sustainable tourism, supporting replanting efforts and reporting illegal activity.”

He also shared that in addition to Park Rangers patrolling the area daily, the JCDT works with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) and the Forestry Department to implement sustainable solutions that balance the needs of the environment and local communities.

“The Blue and John Crow Mountains, spanning over 100,000 hectares, are home to a wealth of biodiversity, including endemic species such as the Jamaican swallowtail butterfly and the blackbird,” the Park Ranger said.

King added that the site also has immense cultural significance, being the historic refuge of the Maroons, as well as hosting sacred sites intertwined with Jamaica’s history and identity.

For more information on how to get involved, individuals can visit the JCDT website at or call – 876-619-9807.

– JIS