Located in the Northeastern region of Dominican Republic, the Samana peninsula is a tropical refuge that breaks the sun, sea, and sand stereotype that characterizes most destinations in the Caribbean. Beneath the mountainous tropical forest that covers the peninsula, a rich geological compilation of limestone and marble expands into the irregular terrain. The mining sector in this area has therefore become a regional source of limestone, aggregates, and marble. The need for rapid economic growth has led to an alarming 400 km2 (44% of the region) to be conceded for mining exploration and exploitation.

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As a haven for numerous endemic species of flora and fauna, it is critical to implement mitigation and reclamation strategies to minimize the ecological and environmental impacts of the mining industry and ensure that the area’s biodiversity is maintained. Mitigating Minescapes introduces a series of strategies that engage the mining industry as a multi-phase process that mitigates the otherwise unchecked impacts of mining.

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Samana Province, Dominican Republic

Fall 2011

Ebru Ozer (Faculty Advisor)

Academic

- 2012 FLASLA Award of Merit 

- 7th European Biennal of Landscape

Architecture