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Marine Management
Coral reefs are very important for humankind from an economic, scientific, and recreational point of view. They act as a valuable food source for millions of people, a protector of land, a dwelling place for thousands of marine organisms and a naturalist's paradise.
In recent years, coral reefs have suffered a dramatic decline around the world. About 20% may already have been degraded beyond recovery. Unless an effective management system is implemented, it has been predicted that more than two-thirds of the world's coral reefs may collapse ecologically within this century. Increased awareness of the importance of conservation activities will become an urgent priority to ensure the safety of such an extraordinary marine resource.
The Saba National Marine Park
The Saba National Marine Park was established in 1987 with the objective to preserve and manage Saba's marine resources. The Marine Park was not developed to repair a damaged environment but rather to ensure the continued quality of an extraordinary resource for the benefit and enjoyment of everyone. The Marine Park circles the entire island from the high-water mark to a depth of 60 m (200 feet), including the seabed and overlying waters. A zoning plan divides the Marine Park for various recreational and commercial uses. A system of permanent mooring buoys facilitates diving and prevents damage to corals. One of the few self-sustaining marine parks anywhere in the world, the Marine Park raises revenue through visitor fees, souvenir sales, and donations. The Marine Park is administered by the Saba Conservation Foundation, a not-for-profit organization with a mission to contribute to the development and preservation of Saba's natural and cultural heritage.
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© 2005 Saba Conservation Foundation -- Photos ©2005 Dos & Bertie Winkel |
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