The story of Walkers Reserve is one of connection, reconnection, transformation and regeneration.
For over 50 years, Walkers Sand Quarry has provided silica sand to Barbados as the largest mine on the island, helping to shape the nation’s landscape. Today, a new story is emerging for Walkers; one of biodiversity, ecological health and regeneration. This model of regeneration is the largest of its kind in the Caribbean, illustrating the extraordinary potential for reversing climate change through increasing biodiversity, enriching soils, restoring watersheds and enhancing ecosystem services.
Walkers Institute for Regenerative Research and Design (WIRRED) is a non-profit organisation and charity, born out of the regeneration of Walkers Sand Quarry. 277 acres of mined lands on the East Coast of Barbados are being transformed into a living laboratory for climate resilience. As part of the Barbados System of Parks and Open Space, Walkers Reserve is one of the most unique sites in the Scotland District. The Reserve sits in Belleplaine in the system of national parks. The national vision is for these areas to be protected and improvements made to their condition, in particular, to address the impacts of climate change and increase resiliency, ensure the conservation of the Natural Heritage System, meet the active and passive recreation needs of residents of Barbados and enhance amenities and the overall landscape of Barbados for residents and tourists alike.
To ensure the sustainability and viability of Walkers Reserve and our regenerative projects, WIRRED continues to develop several enterprises as we push to develop the bio and circular economies in the region. Our ecotourism offerings include various tours and experiences on site, which allow visitors to immerse themselves in a truly unique outdoor experience, connecting with each other and reconnecting with nature.
The reserve comprises several and varied habitats such as our littoral forest, dunes, coastal grasslands, lakes and mangroves. Knowledgeable tour guides take visitors through the site building awareness of our flora, fauna and ongoing regeneration activities. We also offer a bee experience where visitors will get suited up and visit one of our apiaries, getting up close and personal with honey bees. The choice is yours! Connect with us today and delve into Barbadian culture.
You can also offset your carbon footprint and plant a tree with us! Discover more at reforestbarbados.com.
Visit wirred.org or e-mail tours@walkersreserve.com for more details.
