Jamaica Energy Partners (JEP) Group has provided J$800,000 in sponsorship to the Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust (JCDT) to support improvements at Holywell Recreational Park. JCDT has accepted the donation, continuing a 28-year partnership in environmental conservation, reforestation and institutional development. 

As part of its 2026 support, JEP Group will sponsor the refurbishment of gazebos at Holywell Recreational Park and the establishment of a new camping and picnic site, creating improved spaces for visitors to experience and enjoy the natural environment. The new camping and picnic area will also feature JEP Group branding in recognition of the company’s investment in the recreational facility.

The initiatives represent the latest chapter in the relationship between JEP Group and JCDT, which spans nearly three decades.

JEP Group has held a seat on the Board of JCDT for 28 years, contributing to the organisation’s governance and providing guidance on several operational matters. Dr Wayne McKenzie, President and Chief Executive Officer of JEP Group, currently represents the company on the Board.

Over the years, the partnership has extended well beyond board participation to include reforestation activities, environmental initiatives, and sponsorship of events and programmes that support JCDT’s conservation mandate.

At Holywell Recreational Park, JEP Group has planted more than 1,700 trees to date, contributing directly to reforestation efforts within one of Jamaica’s most important protected natural areas. Holywell forms part of the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, which is managed by JCDT under delegation from the Natural Resources Conservation Authority.

Dr McKenzie said the company’s continued support reflects its belief that environmental stewardship requires sustained commitment and active participation.

“Twenty-eight years is a significant partnership, and it speaks to the importance JEP Group has consistently placed on environmental stewardship. Our relationship with JCDT has never been limited to sponsorship. We have remained engaged at the governance level, supported reforestation, and contributed to initiatives that strengthen the organisation and its ability to protect Jamaica’s natural resources,” Dr McKenzie said.

He said the Group’s donation to support improvements at Holywell represents a natural progression of that relationship.

“Having planted more than 1,700 trees at Holywell, we are pleased to take another step in our partnership by investing in spaces that allow Jamaicans to experience and appreciate the environment we are working together to protect. The refurbishment of the gazebos and development of the camping and picnic site will enhance the visitor experience while supporting greater appreciation of this important natural asset,” he added.

Executive Director of the Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust, Ms Abigail McIntosh, welcomed the donation and JEP Group’s continued commitment to the organisation and Holywell.

“JEP Group’s 28 years of service on the JCDT Board represents an important example of sustained private-sector involvement in conservation,” McIntosh said.

She noted that investment in recreational infrastructure plays an important role in supporting conservation.

“The income earned from Holywell goes directly back into the management of the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, helping to fund enforcement, public education, conservation, and other critical park management activities. Improving the facilities at Holywell, therefore, not only provides a better experience for visitors but also strengthens our ability to protect and manage the National Park. We are pleased to continue this important work with JEP Group,” McIntosh added.

The donation will support improvements to Holywell’s recreational facilities, providing Jamaicans with opportunities to experience and appreciate the natural environment.

JEP Group will continue its sustainability efforts on Saturday, 3 October 2026, by planting 500 Spanish elm seedlings at Bull Head Mountain in Clarendon, in collaboration with the National Forestry Department. Spanish elm is known for its drought resistance, making it a valuable species for reforestation efforts that support the resilience of Jamaica’s natural environment.

As the partnership enters its next chapter, both organisations remain committed to identifying opportunities that advance conservation, environmental education, reforestation, climate resilience and responsible public engagement with Jamaica’s protected areas.