Conservation of the Belize Barrier Reef: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

 

Let’s face it! Our world is awesome! Belize is proud to be the home of the largest Barrier Reef in the Western Hemisphere, a haven for awesome and diverse marine life. The Belize Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Marine Site, and if you have ever had the good fortune to dive or snorkel in this area, you will understand why Charles Darwin declared it to be, “the most remarkable reef in the West Indies”. Charles Darwin, the originator of the theory of evolution studied “life” and its “origin” and found it in Belize’s Barrier Reef.

The Belize Barrier Reef is the longest in both the Northern and Western Hemisphere, linking the country’s coastline for almost 140 miles, an extensive wall made up of beautiful, live, coral organisms. The reef is the home of 70 hard coral species, 36 soft coral species, 500 species of fish, the West Indian manatee, green turtle, hawksbill turtle, loggerhead turtle, American crocodile, and hundreds of invertebrate species. The Belize Barrier Reef System includes 9 marine reserves:

·      Bacalar Chico

·      Caye Caulker

·      Gladden Spit & Silk Cayes

·      Glover’s Reef

·      Hol Chan

·      Port Honduras

·      Sapodilla Cayes

·      South Water Caye

·      Turneffe Atoll

Belize is also home to 3 of the 4 atolls in the northern hemisphere:

·      Glover’s Reef Atoll

·      Lighthouse Reef Atoll

·      Turneffe Islands Atoll,

Many government, international, regional, national, and local organizations work together to protect the reef, few of these include:

·      Forest Department

·      Fisheries Department

·      Southern Environmental Association

·      Coral Reef Alliance

·      Wildlife Conservative Society,

·      Natural Conservancy

·      Ecomar

·      Green Reef

·      Oceana

·      APAMO

·      PACT

·      Belize Audubon Society

·      Placencia Mooring Masters

The reef is Belize’s livelihood and without it Belize as we know it would not exist, therefore conservation of the reef is primal. The hard work of many of these organizations have resulted in the implementation of many conservation laws including:

·      Coral Reef Conservation Act (CRCA)

·      Fishing Regulation in the protected area        

o   Protecting parrotfish, grazers, Nassau grouper (an endangered species)

·      Banning spearfishing within marine reserves

·      No- take Zones in protected areas:

o   South Water Caye, Sapodilla Cayes marine reserves, and Pelican Cayes

The goals for protection of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserves include working with local fishermen to manage the use of the reserve, raising public awareness of the value of the ocean, and to maintain fishing regulations. Conservation of the Belize Barrier Reef not only allows for the growth and development of a diverse eco-system, but also for maintaining the aesthetic beauty for all divers to experience such an amazing wonder.

Many local organizations that call Placencia home are active in reef conservation.

Splash Dive Center facilitates many community projects such as Splash Kids Club, The Placencia Mooring Masters lion fish culling. Through Splash Kids Club, local children are given the opportunity to become professional divers, and are thought about the importance of reef conservation. The Placencia Mooring Masters is a community organization that protect Belize's Reef through the installation of anchor mooring buoys, to prevent permanent damage to the reef caused by dropped anchors and their dragging chains. Splash has paid for mooring buoys at Silk Cayes and Laughing Bird National Park and has provided dive equipment to assist with the installations.  Together we all can protect the Belize Barrier Reef.

Contact Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com to find out how you can help us protect the Belize Barrier Reef!

Your Top 3 ‘Must Visit’ Islands in Belize

Belize is a natural beauty filled with an array of diversity. In Belize islands are commonly called ‘cayes’, pronounced ‘keys’. This tiny English speaking country is certainly blessed with many beautiful and immaculate islands, which are but only a short distance away from one another. My top three must visit islands are: San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Laughing Bird Caye National Park.

San Pedro Ambergris Caye is known to be the largest of Belize’s offshore islands and the most developed island- here you can dive the Christ of the Abyss.  The town, San Pedro, is where you will find the most populated part of the island, equipped with an array of lodging, dining, shopping, and nightlife. The island is known as ‘La Isla Bonita’, translated in English as, ‘The Beautiful Island’, a nickname given by Madonna’s hit song, ‘La Isla Bonita’. Tours and activities on the island range from easy, moderate, to strenuous. Choose your adventure: have a relaxing sunset cruise with your loved one, or take a short boat ride out to the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, to snorkel or dive.  San Pedro is said to have been a Maya Trading Post, and the evidence of this exist today, be sure to visit the Marco Gonzalez Maya Site, and unfold the mysteries of the Mayas. With all this said, sure enough it is no surprise that this island has been rated the #1 Island in the world on TripAdvisor.

Take it easy and simply ‘Go Slow’ visiting Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker is located nearby to San Pedro Ambergris Caye, but it is a distinctive atmosphere to San Pedro- here be sure to dive the Hol Chan Marine Reserve for a great reef experience. Looking for paved roads? This cannot be found in Caye Caulker! Kick off your shoes and experience the island life, strolling on the sandy streets. This island has a laid back Caribbean vibe and is popular amongst backpackers, budget travelers and lately even honeymooners, looking for an island escape.  The friendly people of Caye Caulker gives Caye Caulker the nickname, ‘La Isla Carinosa’, translated in English as, ‘Charming Island’, and charming it is. Many locals as well as visitors enjoy the entertainment and swimming at ‘The Split Beach’, a narrow channel that has divided the Island in two. I definitely recommend experiencing the true meaning of Caye Caulker’s motto, “Go Slow”.

This upcoming ‘must visit’ island takes you to Southern Belize. Laughing Bird Caye National Park is located approximately eleven miles off the coast of Placencia Village, Stann Creek District. What is most unique about this island is that it stands on an elongated ridge of reef (faro). Due to its location and form it attracts an abundance and variety of coral habitats and marine life. Unlike, San Pedro Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker, this island is secluded, and uninhabited by humans. Laughing Bird Caye is a protected area and is also listed as a World Heritage Site. Diving, fishing, and snorkeling in this area, is a true natural marine experience that can easily be arranged through licensed tour operators such as: Splash Dive Center Belize.

Belize is a natural beauty and is filled hundreds of picturesque islands. However, if you are planning to experience Belize we do recommend visiting these top three ‘must visit’ islands.

Needing more information on Belize and its Islands be sure to contact Patty patricia@splashbelize.com  or visit us at www.splashbelize.com

September a Festive Month- Independence Day and Jump Up Time

Independence Day and Jump Up Time

Belize: Adorned in Red, White, and Blue, the sound of the marching bands and the loud trumpets can be heard, commemorating the history of what has become Belize. Belize is the Land of the Free, and by listening to Belize’s many national, and historical September Celebration songs including Belize’s National Anthem, we can feel the vibration of the drums and the rhythm of the proud patriotic march.

Belize gained its Independence on September 21, 1981 and it was on this day that the Belizean flag was raised, and the Belize’s National Anthem song by all inhabitants, who proudly called themselves: ‘Belizeans’ for the very first time. Today, the entire month of September is packed with events, all aimed at celebrating Belize. This year September celebration theme is “Belize in you, Belize in me, Land of the Free!”

The Celebration began with the National Song Competition that was held on Saturday, August 10. On this day Belizeans gathered to participate in a three-song category competition: Junior, Patriotic, and Carnival. The winning songs will be used extensively throughout this year’s September Celebration.

Other popular historical events that will be taking place this year September includes: Carnival Mass Camp, Queen of the Bay Pageant, Carnival Queen and King Competition, St. George’s Caye citizen parade, Carnival Jouvert, Carnival Road March, and on the 20^th midnight Belize Independence Ceremony and fire works display.

For many and myself included September is one of the best times to celebrate with locals and experience the patriotism of Belizeans. The Belize Carnival is one of the most colorful, energized, and creative, event in September. The soca and punta music on this day will have you shaking your bum as you view the bright, and picturesque costumes.  Plan on visiting Belize this September celebration and experience the festivities on this tropical Caribbean paradise. Be sure to check out the official Calendar of Events click here.

Learn more about Belize by contacting Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com and learn how you can be part of the celebrations!

Belize: Summer in December

Belize - Summer In December

Usually December means winter: one of the coldest seasons of the year. Fortunately this is not true for Belize. Belize is a tropical country all year-round! The average high in Belize during this time is is 80 F. (26 C.) and the average low is 71 F (21 C.).  Belize is the perfect escape from winter as it is a mere 2 hours flight from the United States of America.

Why not take a family winter vacation in the small tropical English-speaking land of Belize?

Who says that you cannot take a family dream winter vacation in the deep blue? The waters in Belize are warm and perfect for snorkeling or diving, even in December. Extend your summer days to December scuba diving, snorkeling, or just relaxing in the inner cayes near Placencia, Belize. Visit Belize’s Great Barrier Reef and the three atolls: Glover’s Reef, Turneffe, and Lighthouse.  You will surely not regret this winter vacation.

Forget about packing your sweaters and coats this winter and bring along your hiking boots or sundresses. Spend time on land exploring the natural beauty of the rainforest, the mysteries of the Mayan Temples, the largest cave system in Central America, and last but not least visiting the only Jaguar reserve in the world. With all the natural wonders found in this tiny country it is not surprising that 80% of the rainforest in Belize is under government protection. Belize is home to a diverse number of animals, birds, and other unique species.

As winter sets in the Northern Hemisphere many species of birds flock to warmer areas such as Belize. Why not join them?  If you enjoy birding I would definitely recommend visiting Belize. Belize covers 44.8% of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, uniting goals of conservation in the Central America Region and Mexico. Experience more than just the evergreens this winter in Belize.

Start planning your great winter escape today by contacting Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com

Summer in December awaits you in Belize!

Together in Conservation-Splash Dive Center 8th Annual Environmental Day

Splash Dive Center 8^th Annual Environmental Day

The Belize Barrier Reef is known as the longest in both the Northern and Western Hemisphere. As described by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN):

“It provides a classic example of the evolutionary history of reefs, contains superlative natural phenomena and areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance, and is one of the most pristine reef ecosystems in the Western hemisphere.”

Diving in the reef: it is no doubt that the beauty is an entirely new world filled with extraordinary habitats.

Charles Darwin in 1842 referred to this beauty as “the most remarkable reef in the West Indies”.  It is not surprising then that there is never a dull moment on the diving tours offered by Splash Dive Center in Placencia Peninsula, Belize.

The locals in Belize have stood their stance and continue to play a great part in the conservation of the reef today. It is for this reason that we can continue to offer the natural wild life beauty found in our Belizean Caribbean Sea. Splash Dive Center also contributes in the conservation of the reef by organizing its annual Environmental Day. This year Splash Dive Center will be hosting its 8^th Annual Beach Cleanup and Lionfish Hunt, where we are expecting over a 100 school kids to participate.

• Event: 8^th Annual Environmental Day
• Venue: Laughing Bird Caye National Park, Placencia
• Date: July 13, 2013
• Register/volunteer: contact Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com

Thanks to the strong support of both locals and visitors we can continue to give all our divers a natural untouched scuba diving experience in the Belize Barrier Reef. Through our beach cleanup and Lionfish hunt we aim at not only cleaning the environment, but also at teaching the community and children the impact of reef trash and the threat of the Lionfish to our reef. The kids will also have the opportunity to learn more on Belize’s marine life during a special presentation done by the senior members of the Splash Kids Club. In addition, they will have a moment to enjoy time at the National Park, a World Heritage Site

The beauty of natural wildlife is evident. As you head out on many of our snorkeling and diving tours you may spot the graceful and intelligent Bottlenose Dolphins. Belize is certainly an unspoiled beauty! Help us to keep our Caribbean Sea intact.

Contact Patty to book your tour at patricia@splashbelize.com or visit us at www.splashbelize.com to learn more about our diving tours. 

15th Annual Placencia Lobsterfest- It is Time for a Beach Party

It is Time for a Beach Party

Beach party, who called a beach party?

In celebration of the opening of the lobster season in Belize, the Placencia Peninsula will be having its 15^th annual Placencia Lobsterfest. The first Placencia Lobsterfest was in June 1998, it celebrated both the opening of the lobster season and the Placencia Fishermen’s Cooperative’s celebration of Fishermen’s Day. The Belize Tourism Board selected Placencia’s Lobsterfest as Belize Festival Of The Year For 2012!  Today, the celebration continues and has developed into an extravagant event that promotes food - a lobster galore, music, games, prizes, as well as a Lionfish tournament, in an effort to minimize the impact of Lionfish.

You do not want to miss out on an enticing local experience in the tranquil village-paradise of Belize!  On June 28 to June 30 the beach party commences at the beach front in Placencia village.  Culturally diverse dishes all containing lobster will be on sale and will be eligible to enter the Best Lobster Dish Competition. The savory taste of a diverse array of dishes is certainly a treat. Don’t worry if you are not into the taste of lobster, on sale will also be fish, shrimp, chicken, steak, pork and vegan dishes.   

Relax on the beach and sip on the local beer of Belize, Belikin, as you enjoy the sound of local DJ’s and musicians. It is time to kick back and relax on Belize’s #1 Beach Destination, Placencia!

It is time for a beach party! 

To get more information on Lobsterfest and other events be sure to visit www.splashbelize.com

7 Going on 8: Wonders of the World “The Great Blue Hole”

Vote for the Great Blue Hole as the 8^th Wonder of the World

History has it that the seven wonders of the ancient world were chosen by the Greek historian, Herodotus some 2000 years ago and consisted of man’s greatest creation. In 1997 CNN listed their seven natural wonders of the world, which included aquatic, geological, and astrophysical sites. Then followed the seven wonders of the modern world that was announced in 2007 including manmade structures around the world. Recently, it was announced by VirtualToursit.com that an eight wonder would be added to the seven wonders of the modern world. On the list of nominees for the eight wonder of the modern world is no other thanBelize’s Great Blue Hole, a diving mecca.

The Great Blue Hole is located only 65 nautical miles northeast of Placencia and easily accessible by boat. According to the Biography Channel, Jacques Cousteau, the most famous undersea explorer of the 20^th Century, visited Belize’s Great Blue Hole aboard the Calypso. He was determined to explore the bottomless pit of the Blue Hole, and the magic of the undersea world! According to Jacques Cousteau the Great Blue Hole is one of the top-ten scuba diving sites in the world.  We think it is number one!

The Great Blue Hole is extraordinary and truly a natural creation. This natural creation is said to have formed after the collapse of an underground cavern and cave system. It is a large strikingly circular sinkhole 1000 feet in diameter and over 400 feet deep. Diving the Great Blue Hole is anything but ordinary. The beauty is stunning as huge stalactites can be found at depths starting around 100 feet hanging from the ceiling of caves.

So why is it that Belize’s Great Blue Hole is not the 8^th Wonder of the World?

The Blue Hole is not only the most amazing natural creation; it is also part of Belize’s Great Barrier Reef System, the largest Barrier Reef of the Western Hemisphere. In order to protect this natural beauty and to preserve the experience given to each diver that attempts to explore the Great Blue Hole, it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

So be a part of naming Belize’s Great Blue Hole the 8^th Wonder of the World and visit http://bit.ly/18IZppZ to vote every day!

Interested in diving the Great Blue Hole? Contact Patty at patricia@splashbelize.com   to learn more.