Tag:
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Conservation
Stakeholders Condemn Dredging Activity Near Mexico Rocks
Dredging activity observed near the Mexico Rocks recreational zone, located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, has sparked outrage and concern among environmentalists and tourism stakeholders. They are alarmed at the potential impacts such activity may have on the sensitive marine ecosystem and are demanding clarity regarding the project's authorization and the environmental safeguards in place. Mexico Rocks is recognized as a vital component of the Belize Barrier Reef System. To bring further attention to the issue, the San Pedro Tour Guide Association called a stakeholder meeting on Thursday, June 19th, to collectively voice their concerns.
Conservation
“Protected” in Name Only: Belize’s Marine Reserves Under Threat
The turquoise waters around Cayo Rosario sparkle with life and beauty. It is part of Belize’s Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a place many consider sacred ground for biodiversity, fishing, and tourism. So when an overwater development project was approved inside the reserve and commenced construction, it sparked national outrage. How could something so destructive be allowed in one of our most treasured marine protected areas?
Environment
Sargassum Response Downgraded; Large Amounts Still Drifting In
San Pedro Town continues to battle the persistent influx of Sargassum, with the sanitation department, supported by additional staff, working daily to keep the beaches clear of the brown seaweed. Over the past week alone, the department reported removing 104 tons of Sargassum from the downtown shoreline. Despite the ongoing challenges, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has recently downgraded its response level from Code Red to Yellow, while significant quantities of the seaweed continue to wash ashore.
Education
San Pedro Roman Catholic Primary School Hosts Education Fair
On Friday, May 30th, the San Pedro Roman Catholic Primary School hosted an education expo showcasing a variety of island initiatives, local businesses, and engaging activities for students. The event featured booths from financial institutions, environmental organizations, and government agencies. Held from 9AM to midday, the fair welcomed students from various class levels, who interacted with exhibitors and participated in hands-on learning experiences.
Community and Society
Stop Order on Cayo Rosario Development Project Still in Effect
The stop order issued to halt construction on a tourism development at Cayo Rosario, a small mangrove island off the northwest coast of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, remains in effect. The Central Building Authority (CBA) confirmed on Wednesday, May 21st, that the directive is still active. The stop order cites several structures erected on the island without the necessary permits.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Opens Marine Education Center
On Wednesday, May 14th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve officially opened its new Marine Education Center, located on the ground floor of its headquarters in downtown San Pedro. The long-anticipated event welcomed a diverse group of attendees, including primary school students, representatives from the Belize Tourism Board, tour guides, local leaders, and specially invited guests. The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked the official opening of the education center to both guests and the public.
Community and Society
Azaliah Ortega wins Hol Chan’s Annual Primary School Trivia Competition
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve hosted its Annual Primary School Trivia Competition on May 14th at the Lion’s Den. A highlight of the much-anticipated Reef Fest, the event aimed to foster environmental awareness and stewardship among young students. It drew enthusiastic participation from six local primary schools across Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Launches 2025 Reef Fest
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve officially launched its annual Reef Fest over the weekend to promote environmental stewardship and community engagement. The festivities began on Saturday, May 10, with a large-scale beach cleanup along the northern coastline of San Pedro, near important sea turtle nesting areas. A volleyball competition took place the following day.
