The Environmental Awareness Group (EAG), in conjunction with the MOMENT is CAPTURED photography commenced the second leg of a monthly photo-hiking tour in Antigua and Barbuda.

Last Sunday’s hike began on a beautiful sunny morning at the base of the Christian Valley Agricultural Station.  Participants included a Peace Corp volunteer stationed at the national library, visitors from the UK, and several EAG members including a half-dozen energetic youth under 10, as they journeyed to the peak of Mount Obama. The hike proved to be informational, fun and no small effort.

In a classic example of how progress can often get in the way of nature, the group took a wrong turn, since the initial portion of the hiking path was bulldozed and unrecognisable.  Once rerouted and back on track, however, the 20+ hikers relished in the Antiguan wilderness. Unfortunately, the much hoped glimpse of Antigua’s rarely seen waterfall did not come to pass as it had run dry.

The group was led by Chris Pratt and Robby Breadner, board members of the EAG.  The hike gave them the opportunity to speak about the newly-released Wild Plants of Antigua and Barbuda, a remarkable illustrated field guide to native plants in the twin-island state.  The comprehensive, 400+ page book is a combined effort of the EAG and United States Agency International Development (USAID).  It is now available to purchase through the EAG and Best of Books, for those interested in learning about, and perhaps become involved in preserving, the hundreds of plants growing right here in Antigua. This new publication is one of the most detailed and thoroughly researched book on eastern Caribbean flora to date.

The hike concluded with weary smiles, tired feet and stories exchanged about the scenery, the tricky trail and the satisfaction in conquering the Mount Obama hike. The next event, scheduled for Sunday, March 28th, will be relatively flat, involving mangroves near the ocean and have a beach finale to cool off. The actual location will be named closer to the date. Participants are encouraged to invite their friends and family to the next MOMENTS in NATURE.

To enjoy the full photo gallery, click the link directly below.