BRAS D’EAU NATIONAL PARK Management Plan 2018 - 2022 ~ i ~ ~ ii ~ FOREWORD FROM THE MINISTER The Republic of Mauritius takes the preservation and sustainable use of its natural assets very seriously and in this context, the Bras d’Eau National Park was proclaimed on October 25, 2011. It is the second mainland national park of Mauritius, the first being the Black River Gorges National Park. The park extends over an area of 497.2 hectares that is covered by magnificent forests including one of the last remnants of the coastal lowland dry dwarf forest. Moreover, the park is home to a precious cultural landscape and hence can be considered, as per UNESCO definition, as an outstanding example of ‘cultural properties that represent the combined works of nature and of man.’ Therefore, in this park, visitors can appreciate the natural and cultural history of our Island. Such a special place needs looking after. Therefore, on behalf of the Government of Mauritius, I am pleased to present the Bras d’Eau National Park Management Plan (2018 - 2022). The framework presented in this management plan sets a trajectory for the sustainable use of the park, while safeguarding and even enhancing its essential values. Having a management plan and ensuring that it is implemented, is part of Government’s commitment to the protection of our natural and cultural heritage. It is with a great sense of honour and pleasure that my Ministry takes up this task. This management plan represents a new generation of plans in which not only Government, but all stakeholders also work together to achieve the common goals embedded in the Vision for Bras d’Eau National Park. The formulation of the Management Plan has been characterised by extensive stakeholder participation and our aim is to turn the park into an example of Government and the people working together to preserve what is precious and belongs to us as a nation. It will further exemplify our determination to achieve sustainable development, and in doing so prepare for a prosperous future based on a healthy environment. I invite all Mauritians and foreigners travelling to our country to come to Bras d’Eau National Park, to enjoy its natural beauty and spiritual qualities, and to spread the word that this is a place worth visiting. The Honourable Mahen Kumar Seeruttun Minister of Agro Industry and Food Security Republic of Mauritius ~ iii ~ ~ iv ~ MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR The last number of years has seen a growing awareness of our national parks, and increased visitation by nationals and foreigners alike. Bras d’Eau National Park is the latest park in our crown of jewels. As a new park, Bras d’Eau National Park starts with a clean slate, and the management plan is our road map for the next five years. I assure you that we will do all in our power to stay on this road and to attain our goals for the five-year period. Bras d’Eau National Park holds significant natural, historical and cultural heritage value to all Mauritians. Apart its natural beauty, the park is rich in archaeology that dates over both the French and British colonial periods, and into the post-colonial era. It was proclaimed as a national park on 25th of October 2011 under the Wildlife and National Parks Act No.13 of 1993. This Act was subsequently replaced by the Native Terrestrial Biodiversity and National Parks Act 2015 which also makes provision for the proclamation of National Parks, and prohibits development on such lands unless it is approved by the Minister or is permitted under a Management Plan. In terms of Section 16 of the Act, once a Management Plan has been approved by the Minister, it is binding on the management and use of the reserved land. The elaboration and implementation of this plan will enable the Republic of Mauritius to meet its obligations under various Aichi Biodiversity targets of the Convention on Biological Diversity. I would like to put on record the significant effort that has gone in conducting extensive consultations and engaging in collaborative planning during the development of the management plan. Furthermore, mechanisms have been developed that will ensure ongoing multi-directional dialogues that will make the plan an outstanding example of collaborative management. I am pleased to note that we have received widespread support from all quarters during the making of the plan. In terms of Section 16 of the Act, once a management plan has been approved by the Minister, it is binding in relation to the management and use of the reserved and related buffer zones. The Native Terrestrial Biodiversity and National Parks Act 2015 further establishes the Mauritius National Parks and Conservation Service (NPCS) as the management authority for national parks, with clear powers to establish, manage and regulate the activities within the national parks. The NPCS approaches the management of the park in a very positive manner. It is anticipated that the next five years will see a stepping up of the conservation and restoration of the land and usher in an era that will witness the opening up of opportunities for all, with a specific focus on empowering local communities. The tools are now in place, and we have commitment from all quarters. ~ v ~ The responsibility of looking after the park is of course a duty shared by all Mauritians. It is seen as a great opportunity for all to realise the full potential of our park. I invite everyone to partner the NPCS to ensure the park’s sustainable use. The NPCS ascribes to the approach of collective and inclusive management and is open to suggestions and recommendations from the society at large I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Global Environmental Facility (GEF) for funding the Protected Area Network Project under which this Management Plan has been formulated. Special thanks also to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for providing the necessary technical support. I would also like to express my special thanks to the staff of my parent Ministry and to the staff of the National Parks and Conservation Service for the endeavour to develop the Management Plan. The members of Native Terrestrial Biodiversity and National Parks Advisory Council have provided constructive inputs on the Management Plan and gratitude is also conveyed to them. Finally, I invite each and everyone to visit Bras d’Eau National Park if you have not done so already and spend some time there. It is with your support that this park will become an example of best practice throughout our region. Mauritius should not only be seen as the Island of the Dodo, the symbol of extinction but a place where various successful conservation projects have been initiated. The road ahead is long, but the work has started. Come, learn about our nature and history, and above all, enjoy! Mr. Vishnuduth Bachraz Director National Parks and Conservation Service ~ vi ~ Bras d’Eau National Park: Vision Statement The Vision Statement serves to point the direction of where the Park wishes to go. The Vision Statement for Bras d’Eau National Park is as follows: “To be a place that is a natural, historical and cultural showcase that tells the story of Mauritius, one from which the local community and the country at large will benefit economically and spiritually, and where natural and cultural values are protected now and into the future.” Bras d’Eau National Park: Mission Statement The Mission Statement effectively serves as a road map on how to pursue the Vision. They outline broad imperatives that are further broken down into discreet action categories. While the Vision outlines where Bras d’ Eau National Park wants to be in the future, one can say that the Mission Statement describes what the park needs to do now, in order to give it the best chance to attain the Vision. 1. To develop Bras d’Eau National Park as an example of an efficiently run national park that adheres to the highest international norms and standards in the pursuit of its full potential. 2. To research, organise and present the natural, historical and cultural aspects of the park in a way that brings insight into the story of Mauritius, from before humans arrived on the island to the present. 3. To diversify and develop tourism attractions that will enhance the national tourism industry and position Bras d’Eau National Park as a key node in culture and nature-based tourism routes in Mauritius and the Western Indian Ocean. 4. To explore, create and implement opportunities for local economic development by involving communities in all park activities, including infrastructure development and small business creation. 5. To make the national park an exceptional example of a place of reflection and a spiritual haven in a fast developing Mauritius. 6. To make the national park an exemplary national asset based on its natural and cultural values for the people of Mauritius now and into the future. ~ vii ~ ~ viii ~ Table of Contents FOREWORD FROM THE MINISTER ............................................................................................................... iii MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR ................................................................................................................... v Bras d’Eau National Park: Vision Statement ............................................................................................... vii Bras d’Eau National Park: Mission Statement ............................................................................................ vii LIST OF ACRONYMS ....................................................................................................................................