Mitigation Measures Implemented at Deux Branches as Government Reaffirms Commitment to Environmental Protection and Public Engagement
In Photo-Concreted sedimentation pond 1
Mitigation measures are currently being implemented at Deux Branches, the proposed aggregate and crushing site intended to supply materials for the construction of the International Airport.
The measures are designed to balance national development and environmental protection and to address public safety and community concerns.
One of the mitigation measures already implemented is the construction of a retaining wall, which enhances the safety of workers, equipment and on-site infrastructure, and also plays a critical role in managing surface water and site drainage.
To further protect nearby waterways and riparian zones, three concreted sedimentation ponds have been established on site. Riparian zones refer to the transitional areas between land and waterways. The ponds function by slowing the flow of surface water, allowing sediment to settle before water is discharged downstream.
“The function of the sedimentation pond is to remove any sediment within the surface flow before it enters the riparian zone. It will do so through two functions, firstly by reducing the velocity of the water and secondly by trapping the sediment. So we reduce the velocity, we trap the sediment, we reduce the turbidity, we improve the clarity of the water,” said Jahisiah Benoit, the Environmental, Social, Health and Safety Manager for the airport developers, Montreal Management Consultants (MMCE).
Clear Water Flows from Retaining Wall Culvert
There is also a fully constructed on-site drainage network and a purpose-built wheel wash bay. The wheel wash system is designed to prevent mud from being tracked onto the public road, improving safety for motorists and pedestrians while ensuring that wash-off water is directed back into the sedimentation ponds for treatment.
Additional mitigation works are planned, including the installation of a series of gabion check dams lined with geotextile material at and beyond culvert outlets along the main road. These structures will provide an extra layer of sediment control before runoff reaches the waterway.
The Forestry Division has been actively involved in monitoring the project. Assistant Forest Officer Kelvin Felix explained that a 50-metre buffer zone has been established between the quarry operations and the adjacent northern forest reserve to protect the biodiversity. The Division has also provided technical guidance on the design, size and maintenance of sediment ponds, emphasising the need for frequent monitoring and timely removal of accumulated silt.
Construction of Wheel Wash Bay
Terracing has also been recommended for sections of the quarry to manage water flow more effectively, directing runoff back toward controlled drainage points and sediment ponds.
“With frequent monitoring, if there needs to be an increase in sediment ponds, then it will be done on site to minimise the amount of sediment erosion going down into the river,” Felix said.
Minister for the Environment and Parliamentary Representative for the Salybia Constituency, Hon. Cozier Frederick acknowledged public concern about activities at the site, given its proximity to a major river, downstream communities and the indigenous Kalinago Territory. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to complying fully with national laws and international standards on environmental management, health and safety.
“We want to ensure that we can get the best for this country and that when we balance development and natural resource use, we can do it in a proper way,” Minister Frederick said, stressing the Government’s willingness to continue engaging with local experts and stakeholders.
