In the proposed expansion the authority has included Cangrejo Shoals and places it within the protective boundaries of the world famous reserve. The subject in question brought out fishermen, tour guides and the interested community members to participate in the discussion and listen to the proposal.
It is fact that the formation of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve was primarily as a community-based initiative due to concern over the high level of uncontrolled, often destructive fishing and diving activities in the area. Presently the entire reserve covers approximately 6.3 square miles and is divided into four zones: Zone A – The Reef (1 sq. mi..); Zone B – The Sea Grass Beds (2.3 sq. mi..); Zone C – The Mangroves (.98 sq. mi..) and Zone D – Shark Ray Alley (2 sq. mi..).
Billy Leslie, president San Pedro Tour Guide Association, said that the proposed expansion has been a request submitted by the association and other various entities to the past People’s United Party administration. According to him the association requested that this area to be protected. As it is, Hol Chan reserve covers a tiny patch area of mangroves and we are continuously seeing the pressure from various developers eager to build.
According to Reserve Manager, Miguel Alamilla the sole purpose of the request was to sensitize the public and get feedback in regards to the proposal. He said that we want to secure the mangrove and sea grass allowing them to remain intact while protecting the coastal and marine habitats from commercial fishing will save and protect valuable species such as the queen conch and the spiny lobster.
