Empowering Fishing Communities in the MAR Reef

The Community Fisheries Program supports the active participation of organized groups of fisher men and women in fisheries management and recovery. Involving local community fishers has had a positive impact on being able to demarcate the fish recovery sites, a best practice that has proven to be an effective mechanism to restore and sustain ocean ecosystems.

As you all know, Punta de Manabique Wildlife Refuge, in Guatemala, has three fish recovery sites, two in La Graciosa Bay, Mono Rojo and Punta Gruesa, and one in Santa Isabel Lagoon. After two experts in the subject recommended moving the buoys to enlarge the fish recovery sites, a consensus took place between the National Council of Protected Areas -CONAP- entity that manages the area and the Community Development Committee -CODECO- from the communities of La Graciosa, Punta Gruesa and Santa Isabel. On March 29th-2016 two buoys from the fish recovery site in Mono Rojo and on May 18th-2016 two buoys in Punta Gruesa, located in La Graciosa Bay, were moved closer to the mangroves to enlarge the site which is a positive accomplishment within the area.

This only proves that the communities of fishers are willing and understand the importance of managing their resources in a sustainable way, ensuring the livelihoods of their future generations.

Having the communities understand the importance and benefits of fish recovery sites, keeping them informed and involved in the process will only help this initiative keep moving forward.

With your help, we have been able to promote and develop fish recovery sites throughout the region.

Thank you for your support.