The role of Regional Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in integrated data analysis and management of watersheds and coastal areas will be the focus of discussions at a workshop organized by the GEF-funded Integrating Watershed and Coastal Areas Management in Caribbean Small Island Developing States (IWCAM) project on 5^th – 6^th July 2007 in Roseau, Commonwealth of Dominica.

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Caribbean and elsewhere face common water-related issues such as coastal area management and biodiversity, tourism development, protection of water supplies, and land and marine-based sources of pollution. The US$ 112.66 million IWCAM project (GEF funding US$ 14.39 million) is designed to strengthen commitment and capacity in Caribbean SIDS to meet these challenges.

A detailed capacity needs assessment commissioned by the project in February 2006 provided the basis for the design of a Road Map to guide the effective development and management of GIS resources, which can be used to plan and manage the region’s aquatic resources on a sustainable basis.

“GIS technology is an important tool,” explained Vincent Sweeney, Regional Project Coordinator. “Our aim is to incorporate its use in various components of the project and expand and improve GIS capacity and use in all Caribbean SIDS.”

The workshop is being held to seek regional consensus on developing the Road Map and effectively mainstreaming the use of GIS in the region. Participants will contribute to the revision of the draft Road Map; seek consensus for mainstreaming GIS amongst stakeholders; and consider ways to strengthen the network of key stakeholders.

For more information contact dspencer@cehi.org.lc

Reference documents for the meeting may be found in the GEF-IWCAM Regional GIS Workshop folder on the Project website: www.iwcam.org  :

• GEF-IWCAM Regional GIS Workshop Draft Agenda and Background

• Capacity Assessment of Geographic Information Systems Capabilities of the Caribbean:  Regional Assessment Report

• A Framework:  Roadmap for Effective Mainstreaming of GIS for Watershed Management in the Caribbean.

• Draft Roadmap for Effective Mainstreaming of GIS for Watershed Management in the Caribbean.