AmbergrisCaye.com Home Forums The Cayes Ambergris Caye Mexico Rocks Marine Reserve

Although what you describe is accurate to some extent the current plan is what is available to us. The intent is to create a biological corridor that will link protected areas either directly or in close proximity. With Bacalar Chico to the North and the planned reserves to the west and the Hol Chan to the south I think this has been achieved.

You are also correct that there is a long way to go but a first step must be taken before any positive conclusion can actually occur. The folks who have been working on this are dedicated to making it work and they are also very aware of the challenges that will be faced going forward.

It should also be noted that Hol Chan is currently run locally and has been doing well overall. The same management may be able to expand a little and cover the additional area which is relatively small.

In the end the only way this project and others like will be successful is to include the area residents and hope that they understand the need for these types of reserves and volunteer or donate to make them successful.

What can we sign you up for Elbert?

I wouldn't want you to think I'm in opposition, its a noble plan and good cause we need it and its not too late.
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&...J6ZXxneDozMzE3NjE1NmQ4NWNiZDA5&pli=1
Extending Hol Chan management and staff responsibilities to include these areas sounds very practical.
Mexico Rocks needs help fast if its to be saved,the few mangroves remaining are still being cut and we have some commercial interprize currently camped out on the reef. Let me know when the next meeting is and I'll listen and look for an area we can help with.
https://sites.google.com/site/accsdbze/proposed-marine-protected-areas

Now that is the Can Do spirit I like to see.

I think that as the plan is pushed through the process we will have a better idea on a timeline.

This may be a stupid question but Zone B and C of Hol Chan Marine Reserve allow fishing. How does calling it a Marine Reserve help if you can still 'take' from there??

Not being a free for all

'It has been agreed that a Public consultation will be held on January 05, 2012 at the Lion's Den at 6pm to present the concept paper to the local community for their input.'

Yes it would

I had a night dive last night and couldn't make the meeting. I would love to know how it went.

I was told it went well (I wasn't there either). About 50 people showed up and no one objected to the plans.

Thnx JZB; that sounds like a healthy number of folks. I hope the local fishermen and tour operators will actively participate; as much for the information as their input.