By Zoila Palma: Belize is taking another major step toward securing the long-term health of its marine resources, as the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation and the Belize Fisheries Department reaffirmed the essential role that well-managed fisheries play in the country’s Blue Economy.
With fisheries deeply tied to national food security, cultural heritage, and the livelihoods of thousands, officials emphasized that sustainability remains central to ensuring a resilient and nature-positive future for Belize.
On November 20, 2025, the Ministry hosted a technical workshop led by renowned fisheries scientist Dr. Kendra Karr, who presented the results of extensive multi-indicator baseline assessments for lobster, conch, and finfish.
Drawing from nearly five decades of data—spanning 1977 to 2024—the analysis incorporated both fishery-dependent and fishery-independent sources, offering one of the most comprehensive scientific baselines to date for Belize’s most economically important marine species.
The workshop convened a wide cross-section of co-management partners, fisher representatives, academic institutions, NGOs, and government agencies including the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future. Their collaboration ensured that scientific findings were paired with local knowledge and practical management insights. Participants also reviewed updated draft management plans for lobster, conch, and finfish—critical documents that will guide policies aimed at strengthening the resilience and economic viability of each fishery.
The session served as an important platform for aligning stakeholders around shared priorities while reinforcing the importance of joint action across communities, institutions, and sectors.
The post Belize strengthens Science-Based approach to Sustainable Fisheries Management appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: Belize is taking another major step toward securing the long-term health of its marine resources, as the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation and the Belize Fisheries Department reaffirmed the essential role that well-managed fisheries play in the country’s Blue Economy. With fisheries deeply tied to national food security, cultural heritage,
The post Belize strengthens Science-Based approach to Sustainable Fisheries Management appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
