Improving enforcement and science through innovation in Gladden Spit & Silk Cayes Marine Reserve and Laughing Bird Caye National Park 

Grantee:

Southern Environmental Association 

Location:

Gladden Spit & Silk Cayes Marine Reserve and Laughing Bird Caye National Park 

Thematic Area:

Protection For Biodiversity

Timeframe:

July 2023 – June 2025

Funds from Belize Fund ($BZD):

$750,000.00

Co-financing ($BZD):

$382,733.55 

Project Goal:

To strengthen-ensure the protection of marine biodiversity in the Gladden Spit/Silk Cayes Marine Reserve (GSSCMR) and the Laughing Bird Caye National Park (LBCNP) while supporting Blue Economy growth 

Project Objectives:

  1. To strengthen SEA’s enforcement programs through improved monitoring systems and enforcement in LPCNP for the protection of biodiversity 
  2. To strengthen SEA’s science program through strategic scientific plan implementation for effective data collection in GSSCMR and LBCNP 
  3. To build awareness among community stakeholders regarding the importance of protecting marine biodiversity and the importance of alternative livelihoods, and entrepreneurship that supports the growth of blue economy businesses 

Expected Outputs:

  1. Updated management plans for GSSCMR and LBCNP. 
  2. long-range cameras with a supported solar photovoltaic system and boosted internet signal installed and operational on LBCNP and LWC. 
  3. Effective patrols in the Marine Protected areas conducted. 
  4. Park rangers trained to effectively conduct surveillance and enforcement in GSSCMR and LBCNP. 
  5. SEA is equipped with the necessary tools and housing needed to support the enforcement of MPA regulations in GSSCMR and LBCNP. 
  6. Science strategic plan developed. 
  7. Essential science equipment and supplies procured for data collection 
  8. Commercial fish species survey conducted. 
  9. Fish landings surveys conducted in GSSCMR. 
  10. Coral reef health assessed in GSSCMR and LBCNP. 
  11. Fish spawning aggregation in GSSCMR monitored. 
  12. Staff trained on commercial fish monitoring and spawning aggregation monitoring using visual techniques and underwater drones 
  13. Community participants trained in diversification and alternative livelihoods  
  14. Community participants trained in business plan development. 
  15. Increased awareness in stakeholder communities on the importance of biodiversity protection and conservation of marine resources.