The Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association is expressing deep concern over two unfolding environmental issues that pose significant risks to Dominica’s natural assets, tourism product, and long-term sustainability. 

These matters relate to (1) the reported impacts of mining operations in the Deux Branches area, and (2) the ongoing discharge of sediment-laden water from the northern marina development into the sea—an action that has already affected several popular dive sites and threatens fragile coral ecosystems. 

The DHTA emphasizes that Dominica’s environment is the foundation of its tourism industry, community livelihoods, and national identity. Any activity that jeopardizes water quality, coral health, or the integrity of natural spaces has far-reaching consequences for both people and the economy. 

Deux Branches Mining Activity 

Reports from residents and stakeholders suggest that mining operations in the Deux Branches area may be causing sedimentation, river contamination, and destabilization of surrounding ecosystems. The potential impact on the Kalinago community is particularly concerning. While reports confirm that activity in the area has been paused, the DHTA encourages the relevant authorities to conduct a transparent, science-based assessment of environmental impacts and to ensure that the required safeguards are fully considered. 

Northern Marina Water Discharge Affecting Key Dive Sites 

The discharge of sediment-laden water from the northern marina project has resulted in reduced visibility and sediment settling across nearby reef systems. Dive operators and marine professionals have reported impacts to well-known dive sites, including One Finger, Five Fingers, Nadine, and Rose Garden, which are carried westward by prevailing currents. 

These reefs represent some of Dominica’s healthiest and most resilient marine ecosystems—having withstood bleaching events, coral disease, and rising temperatures in recent years. They are central to the dive tourism sector, support community employment in Portsmouth and beyond, and contribute significantly to Dominica’s “Nature Island” brand. 

Sedimentation is known to smother corals and sponges, block critical sunlight, and reduce biodiversity. Even short-term stress can create long-term or irreversible ecological impacts, underscoring the importance of robust sediment-control measures during all phases of construction. 

Physical Planning 

Dominica’s Physical Planning Act requires that development activities of this nature obtain prior permission and, where applicable, undergo an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)—a tool designed not to hinder development but to guide it responsibly by identifying risks and recommending mitigation measures. The DHTA believes that adherence to these processes supports both community wellbeing and the long-term success of development projects. 

A Call for Communication, Compliance, and Collaboration 

The DHTA is calling on the relevant authorities, in both instances, for: 

– Clear communication with affected communities and stakeholders   

– Strong and consistent application of environmental standards for all development projects, whether public or private   

– Timely implementation of mitigation measures to prevent further harm to Dominica’s rivers and reefs   

– Collaboration with environmental groups, marine biologists, dive experts, and local communities to ensure effective protection of our natural assets 

– Adherence to Dominica’s planning and environmental processes, which are designed to help projects succeed while safeguarding the natural assets that support national development   

These planning and environmental requirements—such as development permission and EIAs—are vital mechanisms that promote transparency, early problem-identification, and scientifically guided decision-making. They protect not only the natural environment but also the developers, communities, and industries that rely upon it. 

A Shared Responsibility 

“Dominica cannot afford to compromise its core natural assets,” said Kitwani Ferreira, President of the DHTA. “Our rivers, reefs, and ecosystems are not only environmental treasures—they are economic lifelines. We believe that responsible development and environmental protection must go hand in hand, and we stand ready to work with government, developers, and all partners to support that balance.” 

As a champion of sustainable tourism development, the DHTA stands ready to collaborate with government, developers, and communities to ensure that growth does not come at the cost of Dominica’s natural heritage.