Conservation
ACES Wildlife Rescue Continues to Provide Critical Care for Injured Wildlife
ACES Wildlife Rescue in San Pedro has been responding to injured and displaced native animals across the Northern Cayes through a dedicated rehabilitation and release program that has served Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker since 2010. Operating as a non-profit permitted by the Belize Forest Department, the organization provides 24-hour emergency response and long-term care for wildlife affected by human activity and habitat loss.
Conservation
Stakeholders review climate adaptation priorities for San Pedro and Caye Caulker
The National Climate Change Office conducted the second round of validation consultations for Belize's Multi-Sectoral National Adaptation Plan (MNAP) on March 5th at El Fogon Restaurant in San Pedro Town. Project Manager Jasmine Tzul, Adaptation Officer Jose Marin, and National Consultant Joshua Romero led the event, which also featured an online presentation by Sascha Mahawelatanne Goonese, lead consultant from Metroeconomica in Spain. About 30 participants from various local sectors gathered to review initial adaptation priorities and offer feedback.
Conservation
Authorities Issue Warning After Multiple Manatees Killed by Boat Strikes
The Belize Fisheries Department issued an urgent warning on March 3, 2026, to all vessel operators after several recent manatee strandings across the country. In February, eight manatees were reported stranded in areas including Corozal, Belize City, Placencia, Gales Point, and Hopkins. Authorities confirmed that three of these cases—one adult male and two adult females, found on February 11th, 14th, and 16th—resulted from boat strikes.
Conservation
Belize Fisheries Department Urges Heightened Caution Following Multiple Manatee Strandings in February
The Belize Fisheries Department is issuing a serious and urgent reminder to all vessel operators following multiple manatee strandings recorded across the country during the month of February 2026. The Belize Marine Mammal Stranding Network documented eight manatee strandings in Corozal, Belize City, Placencia, Gales Point, and Hopkins. Of particular concern are three confirmed cases in which injuries consistent with vessel strikes were identified.
Environment
Opposition Emerges Over Proposed International Airport on Ambergris Caye
The proposed development of an international airport north of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, has sparked mixed reactions among residents. While some islanders support the initiative, others have begun voicing opposition. An online petition has been launched to gather signatures against the project, which would allow private jet owners to fly directly to Ambergris Caye from international destinations.
Conservation
Barge Activity Near Mexico Rocks Raises Environmental Concerns
Barge activity near the Mexico Rocks protected area in northern Ambergris Caye has once again drawn public concern, months after a controversial dredging project in the area came under heavy scrutiny. The dredging initiative, approved in June 2025, was intended to facilitate the passage of barges transporting construction materials and other goods. At the time, tourism stakeholders and environmental advocates questioned the decision, arguing that the area is environmentally sensitive and that such activity could jeopardize coral formations within the nearby marine reserve.
Environment
San Pedro Mobilizes Ahead of Expected Heavy Sargassum Season
On February 24th, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) urged community partners to begin preparations for the upcoming sargassum season. Early windy conditions in February brought the first influx of the brown seaweed to the shores of San Pedro. According to reports, the 2026 season is expected to bring large amounts of sargassum to the region, and collective efforts will be required to keep the island’s main beach areas as clear as possible.
Environment
IDB-Funded Wastewater Project Moves Forward for Caye Caulker
Plans are moving forward to upgrade Caye Caulker’s sanitation infrastructure, following the Cabinet’s approval of a US$10 million loan to build a wastewater collection and treatment system for the island. The project will now seek approval in the House of Representatives and proceed under a sovereign-guarantee financing agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).