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MANAGING THE RMTP RESERVE
In an effort to protect some of the healthiest elkhorn
corals and the surf that breaks over them, the Reserva Marina Tres Palmas was established in January 2004. This marine reserve, the first on the mainland of Puerto Rico, was established through a community-driven effort.
Protecting Rincón’s coastal and ocean resources is a priority because they are the "economic engine" of the community's economy. With funding from NOAA's Coral Reef Conservation Program the development of a management plan for the marine reserve commenced in 2005.
Developing the plan
Dr. Manuel "Manolo" Valdés-Pizzini and his team from CIEL facilitated the process to create the management plan.
The development of the management plan was guided by a Steering
Committee with representatives from local and Commonwealth government, fishers, educators, scientists, local business, and community groups. A group of Technical
Advisors ensured the legal compliance and scientific validity of the plan.
The process to create the management plan emphasized diverse and extensive public
participation in many forms.
The Management Plan for the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve was completed in 2008. The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) approved the plan shortly after its completion and the document is now being evaluated by the P.R. Planning Board.
The management plan mandates that a Management Board (Junta de Manejo) be constituted to collaborate
in the management of the reserve, jointly with the DNER. The board must have
members that represent different groups and interests related to the reserve
in Rincón, as well as DNER officials.
The DNER also approved an Administrative Order prohibiting the collection of
any marine organism, either living or dead, in the area of the reserve.
What Is a Management Plan?
A management plan is a guide for the conservation of ecosystems, natural and cultural resources for a specific area defined by legal processes based on scientific criteria and the management of resources. The plan provides a description of the area and region, summarizes scientific research for the area, and presents and discusses critical issues, problems, threats, relevant activities and conservation opportunities. It is a working plan that will guide the day-to-day activities of the reserve to comply with the goals and objectives for the reserve. The plan will be created through a collaborative process between government agencies, NGOs, stakeholders, and citizen participation
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