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, several EAG members including a half dozen energetic youth under 10, as they journeyed to the peak of Mt. Obama. The hike proved to be informational, fun and no small challenge.

In a classic example of how progress can often get in the way of nature, since the initial portion of the hiking path was bulldozed and unrecognizable, the group took a wrong turn. However, once rerouted and back on track, the 20+ hikers relished in the Antiguan wilderness. Antigua’s spoken of but rarely seen (only)  waterfall 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 with the group 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 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 the most comprehensive 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. While the next hike was not specified at the conclusion of  last Sunday’s excursion, there was a promise that Sunday March 28th ‘s upcoming hike will be relatively flat, involving mangroves, near the ocean and have a beach finale to cool off.

A congratulations to all who achieved the hike and its hoped attendees will invite their friends for the next MOMENT in NATURE.

Robby Breadner, is a Canadian-born, Antigua-based photographer and designer with over 20 years’ experience in photography, web and graphic design.  Chris Pratt, a native of England, has spent many years in Antigua documenting plants and writing field guides, and is also very involved in several environmental projects.