Surfrider joined community partners to commemorate the 10th anniversary of La Cueva del Indio Marine Reserve with a day of action and environmental commitment.
On February 9, Surfrider joined residents of Arecibo, Manatí, and Vega Baja in a celebration of La Cueva del Indio on the north coast of Puerto Rico. La Cueva del Indio is a marine reserve that protects incredible coastal ecosystem and petroglyphs carved by the Taíno, the pre-colonial inhabitants of the island. The event was led by Defendiendo la Cueva del Indio 681, an organization that advocates for free and safe access to this invaluable ecological and archaeological site.
As part of the activities, Surfrider volunteers and partners installed signs that provide information and mark one of the westernmost points of Puerto Rico. These signs are part of the RIC (Coastal Interpretive Signage) program, which delineates areas of high ecological value, identifies recreational spaces, and offers information about the local fauna and flora, while promoting environmental education and appreciation of this valuable ecosystem.
Participants planted 25 coastal plants to strengthen the local ecosystem through local climate action. Planting native vegetation helps to naturally regenerate dunes and increases the coastline’s resilience to climate events. In addition, volunteers collected approximately 200 pounds of trash, significantly contributing to the cleaning and conservation of the area.
The event promoted the request for a management plan and the creation of a management committee for the reserve, aiming to ensure its long-term protection. Additionally, Surfrider and our partners continue to demand the reopening of access to the reserve, which has been illegally closed. This legal process is ongoing, led by Defendiendo la Cueva del Indio 681.
Marine protected areas like La Cueva del Indio play a crucial role in the fight against climate change, as they conserve natural barriers, including coral reefs, mangroves, and dunes, against coastal erosion and storm surge. They also preserve marine biodiversity, sequester carbon, and promote the sustainability of fishing resources. Proper protection and management of these areas ensures their long-term conservation and strengthens the resilience of our coastal communities against a changing climate.
We thank everyone who participated in protecting and celebrating this invaluable natural and cultural heritage. We remain committed to the defense and conservation of our resources! #CuevaDelIndio #MarineReserve #Arecibo #Conservation #FreeAccess #PuertoRico #DefendingOurHeritage #ManagementPlan #EnvironmentalJustice #ClimateChange #CoastalResilience
