Government yesterday announced the creation of a $100,000 fund for projects that promote environmentally sensitive practices.

Ten grants not exceeding $10,000 each will be awarded each year to community groups, individuals, businesses, schools and non Government organisations for qualifying projects, Environment Minister Dennis Lister told the House of Assembly.

"By making these grants available we are endorsing the efforts that individuals and groups are m already making toward conservation and at the same time we are encouraging more individuals to create projects that fulfil this purpose," the Minister said.

"We would like to have wide participation from all areas of the Island."

He also invited the public to participate in a weeklong workshop on invasive species to be held by the Conservation Department at the Aquarium next week.

The workshop which runs March 17 through 21, will "give an overview of invasives generally and also explore the issues surrounding plant and animal invasives, Mr. Lister said.

"Most of us are already familiar with the problems of feral cats, chickens and Mexican Pepper trees but there are many other less familiar invasives that are equally as destructive. As part of the workshop, field trips have been arranged to a number of sites that illustrate the extent of the problems caused by invasives, and I understand that this tour will be both shocking and enlightening."

At the conclusion of the workshop, facilitators will work with the participants to develop action and awareness plans for Bermuda.

"I view this as one of the most important seminars ever conducted by the Ministry of the Environment and I would encourage any interested member of this House and the public to contact the Ministry for more information."

The Minister also reminded the House that the Proposed Botanical Gardens Management Plan can be viewed by the public at an open house at the Visitors Centre today between 9 and 12 noon.

Bermuda will be hosting the International Conference on Conservation in the UK Overseas Territories and other Small Island Communities at Elbow Beach from March 22 until March 27, he added.

Some 50 delegates from the other Overseas Territories will be joining locals to discuss key conservation issues.