We are asking the Government of Jamaica to say NO to a limestone quarry that would destroy 450 acres of dry limestone forest on Jamaica's north coast. Puerto Bueno Mountain is a spectacular landscape of ancient wave-cut terraces, fossil reefs, caves, and dramatic limestone cliffs along Jamaica's main north coast highway. The pristine forest is home to a myriad of endemic species of wildlife, including the globally endangered Jamaican boa or 'yellow snake' and some newly-discovered plant species. Please help us to preserve this unique ecosystem for the people of Jamaica and the world, as a living laboratory for scientific research and education, a reservoir of biodiversity, a spectacular natural landscape, and a source of enjoyment and economic benefits through ecotourism.
Please visit these pages for more information:
http://groups.google.com.jm/group/JamaicaLandWeLove/web/st-ann-coastal-foresthttp://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=info&gid=109388569086854
We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Jamaica to adhere to the provisions of the St. Ann Parish Development Order (confirmed 2000), which has as its objective for the Puerto Bueno area "to preserve as much as possible the existing natural character of the undeveloped coastline including rock formations, wetlands, flora, fauna, caves, etc."
We urge the GOJ to accept the recommendations of NJCA's 2007 stakeholder consultation (funded by the National Forest Facility) that a 250-hectare section of Puerto Bueno Mountain be declared a National Nature Reserve / Wilderness Area under the NRCA Act and a Forest Management Area under the Forest Act, and that the boundaries be extended to include an area of marine habitat (protected under the Fisheries Act).
We ask that, through the National Environment and Planning Agency, a thorough, independent Environmental Impact Assessment be mandated for Diamond Property Development Company's proposed 450-acre limestone quarry, crushing plant, and conveyor system on the south side of the Queen's Highway, St. Ann, Jamaica.
Mr. Golding, this spectacular forest is so much more than a "noise and dust shield" for a quarry and crushing plant. It is an irreplaceable part of Jamaica's natural heritage. Please don't allow it to be destroyed! Thanks for taking the time to read this petition.
