For immediate Release

CZMAI Management of Goff's Caye Closer to Realization: Management Agreement signed with Ministry of Natural Resources

Belize City, Belize, Thursday, July 1, 2004-On Tuesday, July 6, 2004, theChairman of the Board of Directors of the Coastal Zone Management Authority (CZMA), Mr. Hugh O'Brien and the Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. John Briceño, signed a management agreement for Goff's Caye. This agreement allows for the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) to implement management mechanisms necessary to ensure the sustainable use of the resources of the caye and surrounding area.

Cabinet endorsed CZMAI's management of Goff's Caye on February 17, 2004. This approval was in recognition of the urgent need to implement measures to protect the Caye and its ecologically sensitive habitats, while sustaining the livelihoods and recreational destination of hundreds of Belizeans. The reefs surrounding Goff's Caye is considered to be the best representative of reef systems in Belize. Every week, over 500 tourists visit the caye to relax on its sandy beach or snorkel the surrounding reefs. Since 1999, the CZMAI has been conducting monitoring at Goff's Caye and this research has shown that human related activities are causing negative impacts to the caye and surrounding habitats. The lack of on site management of the caye has been attributed to the deterioration of the resources.

CZMAI implemented some basic measures to reduce these impacts under the Conservation of Goff's Caye and Reef Habitat Program (ConGREH) including tour guide training, installation of mooring buoys, public awareness initiatives and a carrying capacity study. However, further measures must be executed if the resources are to be sustained and safety of visitors ensured. These measures include infrastructure development such as docking facilities and refurbishing of the existing structure, the installation of environmentally sound toilet facilities, a garbage disposal system and public awareness and education initiatives. On site management will also ensure the proper organization of visitors' activities and the development of a carrying capacity limit. In addition, rangers will be on duty to oversee the safety of visitors as well as the protection of the natural resources.

A fee structure of US$10.00 for non-Belizean visitors will be implemented to carry out these measures. Further consultations will be held with key stakeholders to ensure input and support for the management system.

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