Peravia, D.R. – The Dominican Navy has significantly bolstered its safeguarding of the Baní (Calderas) Dunes, deploying a substantial contingent of sailors to conduct military exercises while simultaneously monitoring this vital natural monument. Vice Admiral Juan Bienvenido Crisóstomo Martínez revealed that 288 sailors recently participated in rigorous hardening marches and training exercises at the site. These activities not only enhance military preparedness but also serve to deter environmental crimes, including deforestation, illegal farming, and unauthorized sand extraction. Crisóstomo Martínez underscored the Navy’s commitment to prioritizing the Dunes, merging defense readiness with ecological conservation. This initiative complements President Luis Abinader’s broader strategy to formalize the legal ownership of national parks and protected areas by transferring their titles to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. The first phase of this plan encompasses Loma Novillero National Park and Los Haitises National Park, with the Calderas Dunes potentially being integrated into the expanded framework. The move aims to improve management and curb illegal appropriation of these critical natural reserves.
Dominican Navy doubles protection of Baní Dunes amid environmental threats
