We are so excited about the purchase of a 38 acre parcel of land off Telemaque Road in Brasso. This land will host our new retreat centre, eventually, but there is so much to be done in preparation. We invite you to get a feel for what we have and what we plan to do in Brasso. Maybe you can help us! Brasso is located right in the very heart of Trinidad in the Central Mountain range. The land is very hilly, consists of tropical rainforest and has lots of underground water with springs. This lends to a high natural biodiversity (many species of plants, animals and other organisms). We will want expert advice in developing the land to best maintain the ecosystem. There are panoramic views and it is removed from housing development lending the perfect environment for a Retreat Centre. At present, the land supports fruit trees (Citrus, Mangoes, Peewah, and a variety of bananas) and other tree crops (cocoa, coffee, local forest trees, lumber)
Photo descriptions clockwise from left: Young cocoa pods, Citrus tree, Freshly cut bananas, Coffee plant. All found on the new Brasso land.

Immediate Action Needed & Plan of Action
Surveying for boundaries has begun on a small part of the land, and will continue until the entire property is surveyed. This project requires a group to clear a 2 meter path of brush and limbs so the surveyors can mark the boundary.

For planning properly, a familiarity with the total plot will be necessary. Landmarks, springs, types of vegetation and areas of special interest will be noted. This will be especially important to identify natural areas and specimens of unique beauty to preserve, as well as to identify the best way to develop the land properly. We will seek an area for carrat shed to be built for one day retreats. The number of springs and their state in the dry season will need to be noted to determine water needs.

Access roads will need to be evaluated and repaired as necessary for optimum use with minimal impact. We will identify closest access and seek access temporarily through neighbours’ plots initially. Repair of roads will be initiated through contact with appropriate government agencies.
Agricultural interests on the property will be a priority as the soil is rich and the land is zoned agricultural. It already contains fruit trees (citrus, mango, peewah, avocado, etc.), cocoa and coffee. We will clear areas with production of unnecessary undergrowth.

Fruit trees need harvesting, cleaning and pruning. Bananas need harvesting and stools cleaned to increase production. There are a large number of cocoa trees which require cleaning, pruning, and spraying (organic). Existent coffee will also need harvesting and pruning. Yam is present on the property and can be harvested. We will seek out the most suitable areas for vegetable production and for livestock, keeping in mind the need for a nearby water source. A permanent worker will be hired to oversee agricultural endeavours. We will build temporary housing for this labourer. We will also be registering our organisation with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Agricultural Society.

Above: Overgrown citrus and coffee needs pruning.

Long Term Plans

Locate highest flat area for building ashram.

Determine best place/way to have main water access without destroying aesthetics of ponds and springs.

Buildings to fit into landscape for continuity of view.

Buildings designed in harmony with nature, landscape, conservation.

Vegetable garden and crops – main source of food.

Tree crops – large income earner for Blue Star.

Main centre for retreats and visitors.

Looking Forward To A Beautiful  Productive Nature Centre In The Near Future!