National Action Programme for combating Desertification and Land Degradation.

This National Action Programme for Combating Desertification and Land Degradation in Saint Kitts and Nevis is a comprehensive and integrated framework for addressing the physical, biological and socio-economic aspects of the process of land degradation, and represents the commitment of the country to combat desertification in compliance with the provisions of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. This Programme also offers strategies and measures for poverty reduction, sustainable land management, institutional collaboration and cooperation, and the sourcing of funds for combating desertification and land degradation. The Programme is structured as follows: context, including: physical landscape of Saint Kitts and of Nevis, forest and wildlife resources, resident and native birds, coastal resources; socio-economic context and poverty assessment; agricultural production system, crop production, livestock farming, lands required for agricultural activities; water resources availability; sewerage; energy resources; solid waste disposal; land tenure and land-use planning; causes of land degradation, including: water pollution, deforestation, flooding and poor drainage, overgrazing, inadequate solid and liquid waste management systems.
In order to implement actions and strategies aimed at combating land degradation, the Programme focuses on: strengthening public awareness and education programme; promoting a Policy for sustainable land management and socio-economic development; rehabilitation of degraded land resources; preparation of a coastal zone management plan; adoption of a Land Use Code which establishes a watershed planning and management framework, and minimum standards for the development and growth of communities; reduction of the illegal occupation of land; preparation of sustainable water resources management plans regarding irrigation, water pollution reduction, protection of ground and surface water resources; development of an early warning system for predicting droughts, floods, volcanic eruptions and other disasters; creation of a sound and unified land registration and cadastre system. The Programme also recommends the adoption of the following strategies: appointment of a steering committee; community involvement and coordination with various stakeholder groups.