(File:STAPP 076 South Oropouche Oropouche Swamp.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, 2016)
Introduction to the Oropouche Lagoon
Oropouche Lagoon also known as the South Oropouche Wetland Basin, is the third largest estuarine wetland in Trinidad and Tobago. It is a wide, flat area filled with marshes, mangroves and swamps.
Location
Oropouche Lagoon is located on the southwest coast of Trinidad, near the town of San Fernando. It lies between the Oropouche River and the Gulf of Paria, close to where the river meets the sea.
Wild Life
The Oropouche Lagoon is home to many species of birds, fish and other animals. Mangrove trees and marsh grasses provide shelter for herons, egrets, crabs and small fish. The lagoon also supports insects, amphibians and reptiles that depend on wetland habitats. During migration seasons, many birds stop at the lagoon to rest and feed.
Kristian De Silva (2019)
Importance
The Oropouche Lagoon plays a key role in supporting biodiversity, acting as a nursery for migratory birds and aquatic species. Historically, the area supported rice farming and agriculture, and its fertile lands have the potential to boost local food production. The lagoon also helps reduce flooding, supports fishing, and has potential for eco-tourism, which can create jobs and support local communities.
Conservation
Oropouche Lagoon faces serious threats such as pollution, illegal dumping, saltwater intrusion and overfishing. These problems harm the animals and plants that depend on the wetland. Action is needed to protect the lagoon. This includes restoring damaged areas, stopping harmful activities and teaching people why the wetland matters. Experts also recommend making it a Ramsar site to give it stronger protection.
Fun facts
Many migratory birds visit the lagoon during certain times of the year.
Test your KNOWLEDGE
Challenge yourself with this quiz on the Swamps in Trinidad and Tobago. Best of luck!
References
Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association. (2016). “THE CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE POTENTIAL OF THE SOUTH OROPOUCHE WETLAND BASIN AS AN ECOLOGICALLY ECONOMIC HUB. https://cwwa.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/2016_0040_-The-critical-analysis-of-the-potential-of-the-South-Oropouche-Wetland-Basin-as-an-ecologically-economic-hub-V.-Boodhai.pdf
File:STAPP 076 South Oropouche Oropouche Swamp.jpg – Wikimedia Commons. (2016, December 23). https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:STAPP_076_South_Oropouche_Oropouche_Swamp.jpg
Five Islands a hidden treasure in Gordineau Swamp. (2019, March 1). Five Islands a Hidden Treasure in Gordineau Swamp – Trinidad Guardian. https://www.guardian.co.tt/life/five-islands-a-hidden-treasure-in-gordineau-swamp-6.2.792089.6d19cb6aa7
Mohammed, A., Ramnath, K., Dyal, S., Lalla, F., Roopchand, J., Simos, T. E., & Maroulis, G. (2007). Rehabilitation of seven (7) hydrocarbon contaminated sites in a Brackish Water∕Lagoon environment in South Trinidad. AIP Conference Proceedings. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.2836235
Mr Siew and the Oropouche Lagoon. (n.d.). Mr Siew and the Oropouche Lagoon – Trinidad Guardian. https://www.guardian.co.tt/article-6.2.355577.fa1261a468
Multi-sectoral adaptation measures to flood relief in the South Oropouche River Basin Project – multilateral environmental agreements. (n.d.). https://meastt.gov.tt/mea-focal-areas/climate-change/multi-sectoral-adaptation-measures-to-flood-relief-in-the-south-oropouche-river-basin-project/
Oropuche Lagoon swamp, Trinidad and Tobago. (n.d.). https://tt.geoview.info/oropuche_lagoon,3574013
Trinidad Swamps and Ranges 
