2006 Press Releases

Ambassador Hull Plants a Tree for World Environment Day

June 5,2006

Freetown

Contact:PAO

Tel:226481

The U.S. Embassy observed World Environment Day on Monday June 5 with a tree planting by Ambassador Thomas N. Hull at the new embassy site.  This tree is one of several being planted as the construction approaches completion.  The Ambassador emphasized that the new building should be a model of responsible environmental planning for others moving into the area.
 
The United States Government conducted an environmental impact study and developed a clear plan to restore trees and plants for the new embassy.  The construction contractors designed the landscaping plan avoiding the use of exotic alien species and emphasizing the use of low-maintenance plants.  The construction contract also stipulates that the land not used for construction be returned to its original condition.  Once the new embassy is completed, however, several species will be planted around the grounds to help the land retain water and to beautify the site. 
 
The US Embassy supports the efforts of the new National Commission for Environment and Forestry (NaCEF) and the Ministry of Agriculture's Forestry Division in their efforts to encourage responsible stewardship of the land and to discourage illegal logging and other activities that threaten the Western Area Forest Preserve, which is the source of Freetown's water supply.
 
In addition to replanting on the grounds of the new embassy, US Government officials have been working with the NaCEF Executive Commissioner and the NGO community to encourage strategic thinking about conservation activities throughout Sierra Leone.  Regional Environmental Officer, Matthew Cassetta, made a presentation to a mixed group of government, NGO, and World Bank officials at the end of May to assist in this process.
 
The U.S. Forest Service, which visited Sierra Leone last year, is currently working with NaCEF to continue providing technical assistance to Sierra Leone over the longer term.  Forests can be key in strategies to achieve food security, environmental protection, and poverty reduction.                                                      ###