Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), the leading international conservation organization dedicated to protecting bonefish, tarpon, permit, and their habitats, announced on October 24, 2024, a $1 million USD investment to ensure the long-term health of Belize’s flats fishery. The funding, along with technical support, will go toward local scientific research, community and school education, and capacity-building partnerships with Belizean NGOs, marine protected area (MPA) managers, and government agencies.
Unveiled during Belize’s 10th annual Coastal Awareness Week, which is organized by the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) for the Belizean public, BTT officials said that they were pleased to share this news and to help bring attention to the economic significance of the flats fishery to Belize’s GDP.
Highlighting BTT’s commitment to supporting coastal conservation and sustainable fisheries, Kellie Ralston, BTT Vice President of Conservation & Public Policy, said, “Belize is a renowned destination for anglers seeking bonefish, tarpon, and permit, making conservation of its flats fishery and critical nursery habitats a top priority for BTT, and a sustainable economic development imperative.”
With sustainable economics top of mind, BTT’s Ralston also serves as a technical advisor to CZMAI, contributing to the agency’s work on updating the country’s sportfishing regulations. Citing a recent economic study commissioned by Turneffe Atoll Trust Ralston added, “It was reported that in 2022 the annual economic contribution of flats fishing to Belize is upwards of $240 million BZD. This breaks down to over 4,500 full time jobs and as much as 10% of all tourism overnight spending.”
BTT’s $1 million, three-year commitment will support projects designed to enhance the resilience of Belize’s flats fishery. These efforts will include expanding scientific research to gain a deeper understanding of bonefish, tarpon, and permit populations, as well as their habitats, movement patterns, and vulnerabilities to threats such as climate change and unsustainable coastal development.
Flats Fishery Conservation and Education
In addition, BTT will broaden educational programs in collaboration with local schools, coastal communities, and conservation groups to promote sustainable fishing practices and highlight the essential role the flats fishery plays in Belize’s marine ecosystems and economy. The initiative will also focus on building the capacity of local NGOs and MPA managers to implement effective conservation strategies, engage stakeholders, and advocate for policies that safeguard Belize’s coastal resources.
BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie stated, “Belize’s flats fishery and barrier reef are global treasures, essential to the health of marine ecosystems and the nation’s economy. Our multi-year, $1 million investment will advance scientific knowledge, engage local communities, and support resource managers in their daily efforts to preserve this unique environment for Belizeans and for flats anglers the world over.”
BTT’s investment will complement the NGO’s ongoing local conservation efforts through close collaboration with both private and public sector partners including CZMAI, the recently launched Belize Flats Fishery Association and many individual guides, fly fishing lodges, and various community-based organizations.
This morning on live television, BTT’s Kellie Ralston made this $1 million USD announcement to the public while also describing the science, community and policy work of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust in Belize and throughout the Caribbean Sea. “The commitment we are making to the country of Belize is $1 million USD over three years … partnerships are really key. The end goal is sustainable fisheries in Belize. There are beautiful natural resources all around us that are all connected. With this commitment over the next three years, we are going to see some really great advances in both science and policy that will ensure sustainable fisheries for the future,” Ralston shared with the morning show anchors.
In closing, BTT’s Lysandra Chan shared, “As a proud Belizean, I am thrilled that this initiative will help us reach our shared goal of protecting the flats fishery, which is both an ecological treasure and a key driver of Belize’s tourism industry. By working together, we aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital ecosystem for present and future generations. It is always heartening to see multiple generations of families and friends—whether Belizeans or visitors—enjoying the rich bounty of our iconic flats.”
