Tag:
Lighthouse Reef Atoll
Environment
Belize Aggressor removed from Lighthouse Reef; damage assessment commences
The diving vessel Belize Aggressor IV, which was stuck at Lighthouse Reef, has finally been removed. The Belize Port Authority (BPA) said on Monday, November 27th, that the vessel was successfully refloated after being grounded near the Aquarium Dive Site for around ten days. An in-depth assessment of the damage to the coral reef is now underway. Following that, a fine will be assessed for the damage caused by the diving vessel.
Police News
Belize Coast Guard find marijuana packages floating near Lighthouse Reef
During a patrol at Lighthouse Reef Atoll on Thursday, January 13th, the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) spotted a sack of 36 packages floating on the water. Upon retrieving the items, it was discovered that the packs contained suspected marijuana. No one was found in the area during the patrol.
Community and Society
Belize’s Shark Conservation efforts highlighted on The Ellen Show
Under the Ministry of the Blue Economy and the collaboration of local and international experts, Belize has been making significant efforts to protect marine species. One milestone that became a reality on June 25, 2021, was the establishment of a protected area of 1,500 square miles around Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Glover’s Reef, and Turneffe Atoll, where shark fishing is no longer allowed. The country’s efforts in shark conservation were discussed by shark expert Dr. Demian Chapman when he was a guest on the popular United States television show, The Ellen Show.
Conservation
New regulation introduced to protect shark populations in Belize
Shark fishing around Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Glover’s Reef, and Turneffe Atoll will no longer be allowed after the Government of Belize (GOB) officially banned this practice on June 25th. This new regulation was announced by the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Civil Aviation. It is welcomed by many environmental organizations, who believe the move will establish a haven for sharks across an area of approximately 1,500 square miles.
Environment
Owner of Samahdi Yacht issued six-figure fine for coral damage at Lighthouse Reef Atoll
Video footage filmed by local divers at the site known as ‘The Aquarium’ at Long Caye in Lighthouse Reef Atoll, depicted the alleged destruction of live corals by the anchor of a large yacht called Samahdi on Sunday, February, 9th. By the time rangers of the Belize Audubon Society and elements of the Belize Coast Guard responded to the reports, the vessel had left. Its owner, who was not on the yacht at the time, reportedly has since been in contact with the Government of Belize to address the unfortunate incident. Following an assessment from the Department of the Environment (DOE), it is alleged that a $150,000BZ fine was issued for damages caused by the yacht.
Environment
Shark fishing continues; MarAlliance calls for drastic legislation changes
Shark fishing has resumed at Lighthouse Reef Atoll according to reports made to MarAlliance, a non-governmental organization based in San Pedro Town.
Environment
Puerto Azul Luxury Resort in limbo
The proposed development of the Puerto Azul luxury resort on the Lighthouse Reef Atoll got a lot of media attention when its promoters hosted...
Conservation
Coast Guard confiscate gill net on Lighthouse Reef Atoll
On Saturday, February 21st the Belize Coast Guard, with the assistance of the Belize Audubon Society, confiscated a gill net illegally placed off of...
