On September 3, 2016, the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) informed that a civilian vessel ‘Rumba’, which was registered in Delaware, USA, was grounded on the Belize Barrier Reef in the area of Hatchet Caye located east-northeast of Placencia. Following the incident, a formal Environmental Damage Assessment was made which resulted in the Department of the Environment (DOE) charging Rumba a fine of $31,500. According to a spokesperson for the DOE, Rumba damaged 3% of corals in the secured area, and the fine has been paid.
This is the third vessel to be grounded in Belizeans waters this year. The DOE reminds the public that coral reefs are significant to the health of the ocean. The reef protects the shoreline from erosion, and humans from storm damage.
You can help save the reef by disposing trash properly, reducing pollution, practice safe and responsible boat driving, being cautious when diving or snorkeling, and by supporting conservation organizations.
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