Tag:
Belize Barrier Reef
Environment
Recent Coral Bleaching Event
The Fisheries Department informs the public of the recent bleaching events impacting Belize’s reefs. These events are not uncommon and over the past decades have been caused mainly by a rise in seawater temperatures in combination with chronic local stressors and practices. This trend in occurrence and severity of mass coral bleaching events has been continuous. As such, a “prescription” for a “cure” is unavailable, hence, there is the need to rely on approaches that support the ability of coral ecosystems to become more tolerant, resistant, and resilient to their external stressors.
Community and Society
Caye Caulker residents, Sol Sisters, kayak a length of the reef for charity
A pair of brave and dedicated athletes named Sol Sisters are heading south, kayaking the length of Belize’s Barrier Reef. The duo, Elizabeth Meeker, 53, and Leigh Ann Epperson, 57, started this challenge dubbed ‘Going the Distance 2023,’ from the Blu Zen Resort north of Caye Caulker on Wednesday, June 28th, and plan to reach the end of the reef system and return to the island in about six days. They intend to raise awareness about Belize’s marine beauty and raise funds for the Ocean Academy and the Humane Society in Caye Caulker.
Conservation
Ecomar launches Belize Barrier Reef Watch program
The non-profit organization Ecomar is engaging stakeholders in its Belize Barrier Reef Watch program to raise awareness about the need to protect Belize's marine resources. The project aims to monitor and help protect the barrier reef with the public's assistance.
Community and Society
Reef Week 2023 to be celebrated under the theme: For health, wealth and pleasure, our reef is a treasure!
In March 2023, local non-governmental organizations, tourism partners and allies from the business community will host a series of fun, educational and civic-minded events to celebrate the many ways the Belize Barrier Reef contributes to the national economy and to the Belizean identity.
Environment
Sailboat stuck on reef may not be removed
A 35-foot sailboat named ‘Ramblynn,’ which ran aground on the reef in the Tranquility channel off Ambergris Caye in March this year is likely to remain there forever.
Environment
The protectors of Belize’s coastline; Belize Barrier Reef and mangroves
As Category 1 Hurricane Lisa was battering the country's old capital, Belize City, on Wednesday, November 2nd, the barrier reef along the coastline was roaring as it held back the distant waves. Thanks to our ever-present reef, the storm surge on Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and other coastal communities were minimal within the hurricane's radius, and our island home only experienced minimal damage from Hurricane Lisa.
Conservation
Oceana Belize recognizes Dr. Rachel Graham and Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts 2022 Ocean Hero Awardd
Marine conservationist Dr. Rachel Graham, well known in San Pedro Town and throughout Belize, was one of the recipients of Oceana Belize's Ocean Hero 2022 award. The other champion of the sea awarded with the prestigious recognition was marine ecologist Dr. Leandra Cho-Ricketts. The extraordinary Belizean professionals were recognized at the 12th annual award ceremony that was held virtually on Thursday, September 29th.
Conservation
Information session on Belize’s response to Stony Coral Tissue Loss and other diseases affecting the reef held in San Pedro
A presentation over the weekend in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, was held to raise more awareness about the Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease and other conditions affecting the Belize Barrier Reef. The first informative session was on Friday, July 15th, at the San Pedro Town Council conference room and was facilitated by the Fisheries Department and other partner organizations. Tour guides and operators eager to learn about the diseases killing coral reefs and what is currently being done in Belize to tackle the plagues attended the presentation.
