Fishermen, tour operators, and coastal residents across Belize are voicing strong opposition to proposed expansions of marine no-take zones, arguing that existing protected areas already suffer from critically inadequate enforcement. The growing consensus among stakeholders emphasizes that creating additional restricted zones without addressing current enforcement failures would be counterproductive to marine conservation efforts.
Isela Martinez of the Blue Water Fisherman Association highlighted the prevalence of illegal activities within current protected areas, stating, ‘Without proper enforcement, it is like we are not doing anything.’ She joined other industry representatives in calling for meaningful consultation before implementing new restrictions.
Nigel Martinez, Director of the Belize Federation of Fishers, criticized the consultation process as insufficient, noting that proposed zone changes would affect hundreds of livelihoods. He emphasized the need for broader stakeholder representation in decision-making processes.
Coastal residents like Paula Jacob Williams from Punta Negra Village expressed frustration with the deteriorating state of existing protected areas. ‘Why should we protect more when we are not taking care of what we have already?’ she questioned, describing the decline of marine life in zones that lack proper protection.
Michael Peralta, a flyfishing guide from San Pedro, pointed to contradictory enforcement practices, noting that while fishing restrictions are imposed, sediment-dumping by barges continues unchecked. This inconsistency underscores the need for comprehensive enforcement strategies rather than simply expanding restricted areas.
The collective message from Belize’s fishing communities is clear: effective enforcement of current regulations must precede any expansion of marine protected areas to ensure both ecological sustainability and community livelihoods.