Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve

September 28, 2012 By: Erin Block

Turneffe Atoll has been designated a Marine Reserve by Belize’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development, Hon. Minister Lisel Alamilla. This sets aside 325,000 acres of this unique ecosystem for environmental management, scientific research, sustainability, as well as species protection and promotion of catch and release sport fishing.

Read the press release below for full details.

News Release From Turneffe Atoll Trust and Turneffe Flats

September 25, 2012 – It’s official. The Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve was declared today by Belize’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development, Hon. Minister Lisel Alamilla.

This establishes Turneffe Atoll as Belize’s largest marine reserve and brings improved protection and much needed management to Turneffe Atoll.

The 325,000 acre Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve has been established through the hard work and dedication of several individuals and organizations including Turneffe Atoll Trust, The Belize Fisheries Department and Turneffe’s Fishermen.

Establishing the reserve makes it possible to sustainably manage the unique environmental, economic, and social aspects of the atoll and it will allow for:

  • Improved enforcement and sustainable management of Turneffe’s commercial fishery
  • Improved control and monitoring of future development.
  • Sustainable management of the atoll’s environmental, economic and social benefits for Belize.
  • Scientific research and monitoring for the atoll.
  • Support of catch and release sport fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and other sustainable tourism industries.

The mission of Turneffe Atoll Trust will continue to be driving conservation and other efforts leading to a healthy ecosystem at Turneffe Atoll supporting sustainably social and economic benefits for Belize and serving as a model for similar coastal marine environments throughout the world.

A huge Thank You to each and every Turneffe Flats guest who has helped make this happen and we look forward to enjoying the benefits of Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve with you in the years to come!