Bonaire Sabal Palm Park

The Sabal palm (Sabal lougheediana) or Kabana as it is locally called, is an unique palm species that only occurs on Bonaire (endemic species). The Sabal palm grows in the limestone plateau in the south of Bonaire (Lima). The palm does not grow much higher than 7 meters and is characterized by its robust shape and compact round crown. Even on the island, the habitat of this special palm is not much larger than 5 hectares, where only 21 adult palms emerge above the vegetation (Griffith, P. & Coolen, Q. & Barros, M. & Noblick, L. 2019). The Lima area, where the Sabal palm currently occurs, is a relatively flat ecosystem with a low and often open vegetation. In addition to the 21 adult specimens, there are relatively many seedlings, young palms and some immature specimens present, spread across the area. In addition, the presence of several other very rare plant species ensures that the Lima area can be called a true biodiversity hotspot.

Unfortunately, this area is also under pressure from invasive grazing by goats and donkeys. The harsh conditions, including the salty soil, constant strong winds, high temperatures and the hard limestone soil, ensure that the negative impact of grazing is even greater. These negative effects have the greatest influence on vegetation that is not or less resistant to grazing. This mainly concerns plants and trees without thorns. In the case of the S. lougheediana, the seedlings and young palms are particularly vulnerable. The adult specimens are out of reach of the donkeys and goats.

This negative impact is therefore clearly reflected in the vitality of the Sabal population. The project plan proposed by BonBèrdè for the construction of a Bonaire Sabal Palm Park (hereinafter: BSPP) includes 4 successive objectives (with associated measures) that can be implemented separately or as a whole project. Together, these goals contribute to the direct protection of the Sabal palm and the Lima ecosystem, a solid scientific basis of knowledge and opportunities for sustainable recreational opportunities within the park for both local and international visitors.

1. Protection (fencing and removing goats and donkeys from the area)

2. Research (population inventory and pilot research regeneration)

3. Replanting (In-situ or Ex-situ planting of Sabal palm etc.)

4. Recreation/Education (Construction of paths, information signs and opening up Sabal park)

The Bonaire Sabal Palm Park is comissioned by the Bonaire Island government and funded trough the Nature and Environmental Policy Plan (NEPP/NMBP). The NEPP is an integrated plan for land and water in the Caribbean part of the Netherlands.