The Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), a prominent international conservation organization, has announced a $1 million commitment to flats fishery conservation in Belize. According to an official release, this funding marks the next phase of BTT’s efforts in Belize, which began in 2006 with a focus on bonefish and permit science. This investment represents a three-year initiative aimed at supporting projects designed to enhance the resilience of Belize’s flats fishery.
Various initiatives will be undertaken as part of this conservation effort, including expanding scientific research and broadening educational programs in collaboration with local schools, coastal communities, and conservation groups. These joint efforts are expected to promote sustainable fishing practices and emphasize the crucial role that the flats fishery plays in Belize’s marine ecosystem and economy.
The shallow waters along the Belizean coast, known as flats, are vital for the multi-million-dollar fly-fishing industry. Fly-fishing guides in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, are eager to learn how the new funds will be utilized to protect these flats, which are continually threatened by extensive tourism development. One notable guide and fly-fishing instructor, Omar Arceo, referred to as San Pedro’s “Doctor of the Flats,” has been a long-time advocate for the conservation of these coastal areas.
Arceo expressed his satisfaction upon hearing that the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) plans to invest in projects to conserve the flats. “We need to protect these areas, as they serve as habitats for endangered marine species like bonefish, tarpon, and permit, while also providing livelihoods for thousands of Belizeans,” he stated. “As always, I am ready to collaborate with anyone working on initiatives that promote fly-fishing and environmental conservation. It is essential to care for our environment, and every effort is vital for the sustainable management of our natural resources.”
He highlighted that large development projects around Ambergris Caye have threatened many of the flats over the years. Arceo urged local and national leaders to carefully examine these issues, as the damage done to the flats in the name of development may be irreversible. He reiterated that without the flats, species such as bonefish, tarpon, and permit will disappear, leading to the decline of the fly-fishing industry, significantly contributing to the national economy.
The BTT, an organization dedicated to protecting bonefish, tarpon, and permit and their habitats, announced in a press release that a significant investment from a millionaire donor aims to ensure the long-term health of Belize’s flats fishery. According to the BTT, this funding and technical support will be allocated for local scientific research, community education, and school programs. Additionally, it will foster capacity-building partnerships with Belizean non-governmental organizations (NGOs), marine protected area managers and government agencies.
This investment was revealed during Belize’s 10th Annual Coastal Awareness Week on October 24th. BTT officials shared the news at the event organized by the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI). Kelly Ralston, BTT’s Vice President of Conservation and Public Policy, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting coastal conservation and sustainable fisheries. “Belize is a renowned destination for anglers seeking bonefish, tarpon, and permit. Conserving its flats fishery and critical nursery habitats is a top priority for BTT and an essential component of sustainable economic development,” Ralston stated.
Ralston, who also serves as a technical advisor for CZMAI, contributes to the agency’s efforts to update the country’s sportfishing regulations. Discussing the lucrative fishing industry, she noted that in 2022, the annual economic contribution of flats fishing to Belize was over BZ$240 million. “This translates to more than 4,500 full-time jobs and accounts for as much as 10% of all overnight tourism spending,” Ralston added.
BTT President and Chief Executive Officer Jim McDuffie expressed that Belize’s flats fishery and the barrier reef are global treasures, vital to the health of marine ecosystems and the nation’s economy. He stated, “Our multi-year, $1 million investment will advance scientific knowledge, engage local communities, and support resource managers in their daily efforts to preserve this unique environment for Belizeans and flats anglers around the world.” This investment in flats conservation is also expected to complement the NGO’s ongoing local efforts through close collaboration with both private and public sector partners, including the CZMAI and the recently launched Belize Flats Fishery Association. Additionally, it involves various guides, fly-fishing lodges, and community-based organizations.
Lysandra Chan from BTT, a proud Belizean, shared her excitement about this initiative, emphasizing that it will help the agency achieve their shared goal of protecting the flats fishery, which is both an ecological treasure and a key driver of Belize’s tourism industry. “By working together, we aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital ecosystem for present and future generations,” she stated. Chan added that it is gratifying to see multiple generations of families and friends—both Belizeans and visitors—enjoying the rich bounty of the country’s iconic flats.
