Monday, December 2, 2024
Tag:

Mining Unit

SPTC supports traditional dredging along Hol Chan Marine Reserve near Secret Beach

Following several reports of illegal dredging within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve near the Secret Beach area of Ambergris Caye, the Mining Unit in the Ministry of Natural Resources has launched an investigation to deter the unauthorized activity.

Mining Unit addresses irregular dredging on Ambergris Caye

Over the past weeks, dredging has been ongoing near the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, within the vicinity of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR). While these dredging projects, mainly for sand, have permits and one is under the consent of The San Pedro Town Council, a few irregularities have caught the attention of the Mining Unit in the Ministry of Natural Resources. The Unit, which is responsible for allowing dredging, is addressing alleged reports that no silt curtains are being installed within these areas as required. Failure to comply with such regulation can lead to fines or even the revocation of permits previously granted.

Illegal dredging activities halted on San Pedro lagoon

Concerned citizens claimed that heavy machinery, including a Caterpillar excavator, had allegedly been used to construct an approximately three-mile channel heading north. The Department of Environment (DOE) confirmed to The San Pedro Sun that the proprietors, believed to be Bob Dhillon and David Mitchell, did not have the required permits for such an activity and the persons carrying out the excavation were verbally ordered to cease operations until an inspection is conducted.

Ministry of Natural Resources says no dredging authorized at dock by Ruby’s Hotel

The presence of a dredging machine parked next to the dock has raised concerns since the new proprietors of the property, San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi (SPBE), have expressed plans to dredge the area to make way for a new boat terminal.

Investigation launched into dredging at Hol Chan Marine Reserve northern extension

The Ministry of Natural Resources, via its Mining Unit, has begun investigating claims that unauthorized dredging is taking place within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Expansion zone on the west coast of Northern Ambergris Caye.