Unique Union Island

EDITOR: Positioned strategically midway between St Vincent and Grenada, Union Island is characteristically different from all the other Grenadine islands. It has features resembling those of the larger Windward islands. From the centrally located Mt. Tabor, Grenada is visible in the south and St. Vincent can be seen in the north.

There are mountain ranges dividing the island into valleys, hill sides, flat lands, and swamps. The 50-acre mangrove swamp on the south coast has become a favourite bird watching spot known worldwide. Now managed by Susgren, this park boasts two suspension bridges that link it to Frigate Island which is in the care of the National Trust. Frigate Island is the base of much kite surfing activities.

Emancipation Park is also on the south coast and is currently the favourite recreation and economic activity spot. Descendants of slaves who gather here to have a bath (the island has no public potable water system), can also gather sea moss that wash ashore. This economic plant was introduced by Mrs Ann Harvey and the 4 H club and has become a source of income for the people of the Southern Grenadines.

Span Gardenfield Park has a concept of historical preservation of a derelict family cemetery, local medicinal plant and herb garden, fruit trees, flowers, and a play area.

Tobago Cays Marine Park encompasses Cliffton harbour, Mayreau, Palm Island, and the Tobago Cays. Scuba diving is encouraged by Glenroy Adams of Grenadines Dive, and the various species of marine life are protected within the park area and can be viewed and photographed.

The north coast at Richmond/Belmont boasts one of the best beaches in the world by virtue of it being shallow for half mile out from the shoreline to the first barrier reef called Little Cay. Only snorkellers venture further out to Big Cay. The Tourist Board is developing this Park.

Waterbreak beach boasts a wide expanse of white sand and many gather there to cool down, picnic, and swim. Nearby is the lake known as Salt Pond because during the dry season of some years, the waters evaporate producing crystals of common salt or sodium chloride which many harvest.

Chatam (Rawfall) is on the west coast and has a slew of restaurants on the beach front. The government came into possession of 100 acres of prime lands there which are expected to be developed to benefit the local population and country.

The island cries out for a resident agricultural officer who would oversee the management of the watershed to ensure maximum recharge of the ground water, care of the forests, mangroves, beaches, cull the stray animals, and generally beautify the island.

Entrance to the island is gained either through the Union Island airport or the Clifton harbour, which is the only one in the country that faces the Atlantic Ocean.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD