CZMAI Hosts the Third Annual Coastal Awareness Week 2017

By: Samir Rosado, Coastal Planner

Coastal Awareness Week (CAW) 2017 was celebrated from March 20th to 25th 2017 under the theme Busi-
ness and the Environment: A foundation for Sustainable Growth. The purpose of the week of events was to i) Highlight the
need for synergy among Belizes economic, environmental and social development; and
ii) Increase public awareness on sustainable business and development practices in vari-
ous sectors. In an effort to share this information to the public in a manner that was both
thought-provoking and easy to understand, the CZMAI hosted six major activities spread
across six days. The events were a huge success and garnered support from both the public
and private sectors. Most notably we would like to acknowledge the tremendous support
from our main sponsors; The Inter-American Development Bank, Protected Areas Conservation Trust and World Wildlife
Foundation. The following are the major highlights from the weeks events.

Opening Ceremony
Coastal Awareness Week 2017 kicked off with the Official Opening Ceremony on March 20th 2017. The ceremony
was held at the CZMAI Training Room and was hosted by the CZMAI Marketing Officer, Mr. Chad Bowman.
... contd. on Pg. 3

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Celebrates 25

Years of Working in Belize
By: Arlene Young, Director
This year, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Be-
lizes membership in the IDB. To this end, the IDB is hosting a year-long celebration of activities to com-
memorate this significant achievement.
Earlier this year in March 2017, IDB kicked off its celebration by collaborating with CZMAI to sponsor and imple-
ment Coastal Awareness Week under the theme Business and the Environment: A key foundation for sustainable growth.
On July 26, 2017, the Climate Change and Sustainable Development Sector of
IN THIS ISSUE: the IDB and the IDB Country Office in Belize, in collaboration with the Government of Belize
Coastal Awareness Week 2017.....1 through the Ministry of Economic Development,
IDB25thyearofwork in Belize......1 Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce
Message from CEO.....................2 (MEDPITC), hosted a high-level panel discussion
Development sites inventory.......8 entitled Partners in Sustainable Development at
Coastal Planning Updates.........10 the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza in Belize
World Oceans Day 2017.............10 City. The panel discussion was moderated by Dr.
Sportfishing Program Update...11 Elma Kay, Administrative and Science Director of
Belize River Watershed Study.....12 the University of Belizes Environmental Research
Guest Article...............................11
Institute, included Dr. Lennox Gladden, ...
... contd. on Pg. 9
 Message from the CEO

Dear Partners, Colleagues, Friends:

I am pleased to share the first issue of CZMAIs semi-annual Coastline Newsletter with you for
2017. Through this medium, we have the opportunity and distinct privilege to communicate our
accomplishments and share the outlook for the foreseeable future as we continue to deliver on our
mission and purpose. We are working continuously and diligently to strengthen the Authority and
Institute so that we can improve upon our capacity to effectively fulfill our mandate for improved
coastal area management in this country.

The start of 2017 has been very promising so far, and has brought positive collaborations, new
partnerships and exciting opportunities, many of which would not have been possible without the
support of our Ministry, Board of Directors, staff and key partners, such as yourselves. Some high-
lights for the first half of 2017 year include:

Completion of Institutional Assessment and identification of strategic actions towards

strengthening the institutional structure and legislative framework for improved coastal zone man-
agement in Belize;

Development of a Short Term Road Map in support of coordinating the implementation of

the Belize Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan (2016); and

Improved implementation of broad-based education and stakeholder engagement activities

including, but not limited to, Coastal Awareness Week 2017 celebrated in partnership with the IDB
under the theme, Business and the Environment: A Foundation for Sustainable Growth

CZMAI remains deeply grateful for your continued support, interest and commitment. I encour-
age you to stay in touch with us throughout the year via our semi-annual Coastline Newsletter, and
by connecting with us on our website and social media.

With very best wishes,

Chantalle Samuels
Chief Executive Officer

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...continued from Pg. 1: CZMAI Hosts the Third Annual Coastal Awareness Week
Special invited guests included Dr. Lennox Gladden, Policy Coordinator, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Forest-
ry, the Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration; Mrs. Yvonne Hyde, CEO, Ministry of Economic
Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade & Commerce; and Dr Cassandra T. Rogers, Country Representative,
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The invited guests made several remarks on behalf of their ministries and
organizations which highlighted the importance of sustainably managing and using coastal resources for the growth
and development of Belize. Additionally, they highlighted the suc-
cesses that have been achieved over the past year including the of-
ficial adoption of the Belize Integrated Coastal Zone Management
Plan by the government of Belize. Finally, the occasion was used to
commemorate the important work of the IDB, who are celebrating
25years of partnership with Belize. Their contribution and support
to the development of Belize is immeasurable and thus it formed
one of the key foundation of the ceremony and the rest of the week.
Following the remarks CAW 2017 was officially declared open.

Belize Coastal Awareness Trivia Challenge

On Tuesday March 21st, CZMAI held the third annual Coastal Awareness Primary School Trivia Competi-
tion at the Bliss Institute for the Performing Arts. The purpose of the event was to raise awareness through knowledge
building and provide a forum for primary school students to learn about the Belizean Coastal Zone in a way that is
both informative and fun. This competition was broadcasted live on Love FM and featured participants from 7 pri-
mary schools throughout Belize City who competed for the grand prize of $500. Participating primary schools and
student representatives included:
All Saints Anglican School Roselyn Pech
Holy Redeemer R.C. School Jaden August
Hummingbird Elementary School Khalil Espat
St. John Vianney R.C. School Ashleigh Fermin
St. Joseph R.C. School Ashanty Mayen
St. Luke Methodist Primary School Samantha Alamina
St. Marys Anglican School Hazey Perez ... contd. on Pg. 4

CZMAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dr. Percival Cho (Chair) Yvonne Hyde Froyla Tzalam
Chief Executive Officer Chief Executive Officer Chairperson
Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Ministry of Economic Development, Association of Protected Areas
Forestry, the Environment & Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Management Organizations
Sustainable Development Commerce

Sharon Ramclam-Young Professor Clement Sankat Chantalle Samuels*(ex-officio)

Chief Executive Officer President Chief Executive Officer
Ministry of Natural Resources University of Belize CZMAI

Yashin Dujon (Vice-Chair) Andrew Roe Arlene Young*(ex-officio)

Cheif Executive Officer Executive Councillor Director
Ministry of Tourism & Belize Chamber of Commerce and CZMAI
Civil Aviation Industry

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... continued from Pg. 3: CZMAI Hosts the Third Annual Coastal Awareness Week
After the Final round was completed, points were tallied and the victorious student was Miss Samantha Ala-
mina, who represented St. Lukes Methodist Primary School. Miss Alamina completed the entire competition with-
out getting a single incorrect answer and therefore earned the grand prize of $500. The second prize of $300 went to
Mr. Jaden August, from Holy Redeemer R.C. School and Miss Ashanty Mayen of St. Joseph R.C. School took home
the third prize of $200. CZMAI would like to thank all the participants, teachers, parents, sponsors, and judges for
helping to make the event a success. We believe that though this competition we were able to share information on
major topics that relate to the sustainable use and management of Belizes coastal zone.

Seminar: Sustainable Business Practices & Risk Reduction

On Wednesday March 22nd, CZMAI held a panel discussion at the Radisson Hotel, Belize City. The seminar
focused on the topic Sustainable Business Practices & Risk Reduction. Guest panellists included Ms. Yorshabell
Cattouse, Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Jaime Williams, Development Finance Corporation,
Mr. Jackson Edwards, Long Caye, and special guest panellist Mr. Jake Kheel, Puntacana Group, Dominican Re-
public. The discussion was moderated by Ms. Amylin Mendez, Policy Analyst, Economic Development Council,
Public-Private Sector Dialogue, Office of the Prime Minister. In addition to our special guest panellist there was
also a presentation by Mr. Gines Suarez and Ms. Michela Seelig from the Inter-American Development Bank. Each
panellist gave a short presentation on their experiences from within the private sectors utilizing the principles of
sustainability and risk reduction. Following presentations, the floor was opened and there was a facilitated dialogue
between panellists and the audience, which included members of the NGO community, close collaborators, and
interested members of the public.

Tertiary Level Competition/Coastal Informational Fair

On Thursday March 23rd, CZMAI partnered with the IDB to host the first Tertiary Level Competition and
Business Fair. The competition, which was held at the Corozal Community Colleges Rudolph Wade Auditorium in
Corozal Town, focused on inspiring entrepreneurship through sustainability among tertiary level students. CZMAI
invited one group from each tertiary level institution across Belize to submit a product/service idea. Each group was
responsible for developing their business plan, mock product or service, marketing strategy, and product presenta-
tion. Groups were judged on the areas mentioned using criteria developed by a small focus group. The competition
was coupled with an informational fair during which participants gave their product presentations. Simultaneously,
CZMAI invited various organizations to host informational booths in an attempt to disseminate information to the
general public on their work. These organizations included:

...contd on Next Pg.

Page 4
 Protected Areas Conservation Trust
Inter-American Development Bank
Development Finance Corporation
Small Business Development Center BELTRAIDE
Atlantic Insurance
World Wildlife Fund
CZMAI
Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development
FOCUS
Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association
Belize Fisheries Department
Wildtracks
Oceana

CZMAI received submissions from four junior colleges. These groups were competing for a first prize of
$3000, second prize of $1500 and third prize of $1000. The participating schools and their product idea and mem-
bers were as follows:

Coco Artallery Corozal Community College

Members: Artemio Blanco, Emir Cabb, Giovan Guerra, and Luziary Trejo
Product Summary:
This groups project was focused around utilizing coconut trash to create beautiful works of art. This included figu-
rines, lamps, bowls etc.

Seagass Eco Fuels San Perdo Junior College

Members: Kelcie Alamilla, Heidy Caliz, Pablo Mendoza, Damaris Morales, and Dora Trejo
Product Summary:
This groups project entailed utilizing seagrass (sargassum sp.) for the production of methane gas to be used for
household consumption. Using bacterial bio-digestion, the seagrass is broken down and methane gas is produced
as a bi-product. The gas is then safe to use for residential purposes.

...contd on Next Pg.

Page 5
w

Marina Flora Centro Escolar Mexico Junior College

Members: Yuri Tzul, Esmeralda Cal, Rivaldo Gomez, Nicole Lopez, and Christian Ardon
Product Summary:
This group processed seaweed into gel form and used it to create various products including vinaigrette dressing,
shakes and food thickening agent.

Proyecto Icaco St. Johns College Junior College

Members: Vickie Menjivar, Chelsea Frutos, Juliet Ermeav, Areli Salgado, and Angel Espat
Product Summary:
This group focused on growing coco plum trees in vulnerable areas to prevent/reduce erosion. The fruits from the
coco plum trees would then be used to create an array of cosmetic product including exfoliants, sunscreens and mois-
turizers.
Judging for the competition was done by a small panel made up of individuals from organizations outside of
the CZMAI. This panel included Mr. Ishmael Quiroz, IDB; Mr. Jaime Williams, DFC, and Mr. Jorge Gentle, SBDC.
Each group was judged on their i) Written Business Proposal and ii) Product presentation. At the end of the compe-
tition points allotted for both portions of each submission was tallied and the winner was determined. At the end of
the competition the Proyecto Icaco group won first prize. Second was Seagass Eco Fuels followed by Marina Flora in
third. Finally, at the end of the competition it was announced that the IDB would award one student with a summer
internship opportunity with the IDB. The lucky recepient would chosen from a shortlist of students announced at the
end of the competition and would be selected based upon interviews to be conducted after the competition.

Coastal Awareness Week Awards Night

On Friday March 24th, the CZMAI hosted the Coastal Awareness Week Awards Night at the Radisson Hotel in Belize
City. Our hostess for the evening was Mrs. Anita Hamilton and musical entertainment was provided by the Panatics
Steel Pan band. The purpose of the event was to celebrate the officially close the week of activities and to recognize
close partners/collaborators that have been integral to CZMAIs work over the years. This years awardees are as fol-
lows:

In gratitude for their generous donations in support of Coastal Awareness Week 2017 the following organizations
were honored:
Inter-American Development Bank
Protected Areas Conservation Trust
World Wildlife Fund

...contd on Next Pg.

Page 6
In gratitude for their unrelenting support for the CZMAI and the advancement of the organizations objectives the
following individuals were honoured:

Mr. Abil Castaneda

Ms. Nadia Bood

In gratitude for their support of individual programme areas the following individuals/entities were honoured:

Belize Port Authority for their support of the Goff s Caye Management Programme
Land Information Centre for their support of the GIS Data Centre
Mr. Mike Heusner for his support for the Sportfishing Programme
Mr. Doug Thompson for his support for the Water Quality Monitoring Programme

Run for the Coast

To cap off the week CZMAI hosted the third annual Run for the Coast. The run took place in the wee hours
of Saturday March 25th from 5:30 am to 7:00 pm. This event was done in an effort to raise awareness about the value
of the Belizean coastal and marine resources. Through this 3 mile leisure run/walk from the BTL Park to the Baron
Bliss Lighthouse and back we are trying to encourage Belizeans to appreciate services that the coastal zone provides.
In this case that service is the aesthetics it provides that contributes to personal well-being. There were approximate-
ly 100 participants and prizes were issued to the first adult male, adult female and child and senior citizen. At the
conclusion of the run refreshments were provided to all participants.

Page 7
 Update on the Inventory of Development Sites for
monitoring the Belize ICZM Plan
By Maritza Canto, GIS Manager

The CZMAI Data Centre is currently creating an inventory to map development site in the cayes and
coastal areas; specifically, within the Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker and Central planning regions (Figure 1). These
activities include identifying land parcels within these areas and determining the current status of land use (residen-
tial, commercial, industrial etc). Collecting this information is useful for several reasons. First, knowing the land use
aids in determining the footprint of the building itself. Footprints can give an indication of the cumulative effects of
land use on the area and surrounding environment. Therefore, it can aid in the future planning and development of
these areas. Secondly, the information can aid in the identification of vulnerable areas once compared against other
datasets such as flood prone areas and topographical data. As a result, organizations such as the National Emergency
Management Organization (NEMO) of the National Climate Change Office can identify areas of critical importance
during storm events and areas in need of mitigation/adaptation interventions respectively with more precision. Final-
ly, the information will serve as a baseline for monitoring the implementation of the Belize Integrated Coastal Zone
Management Plan (BIZCMP). The BICZMP contains a spatially explicit zoning scheme that was created using the
ecosystem based approach and local stakeholder knowledge. Several zoning schemes were created for various coastal
resource use activities with coastal development being one. The current mapping effort will be used as a baseline to
be compared against future mapping efforts in order to determine whether or not development followed the zoning
scheme or if it deviated. Through other complementary activities (i.e. environmental monitoring and consultations
through the coastal planning programme) CZMAI will be able to determine the effects of the deviations on the envi-
ronment and communities.
The inventory includes various building and
structural information and other land use data which
will assist in monitoring adherence to ICZM zonation
and management guidelines.
Top to bottom: Ambergris Caye
To develop the inventory, CZMAIs Data Centre ap- Region, Caye Caulker Region, &
plied four steps: Central Region

1. Acquired Google earth Imagery, Aerial imagery and

Drone-captured still imagery for each planning region;
2. Retrieved the parcel data by region from the Land
Information Centre, Ministry of Natural Resources &
Immigration;
3. Created an overlay of the parcel data on the imagery and digitized buildings and piers within the planning regions
using Arc Map tool in the ArcGIS desktop. After digitization, each region was divided into zones based on zoning
schemes provided by the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan. A map was produced to illustrate each building
footprint and pier by zones;
4. Ground-truthing was conducted to validate data captured from aerial survey/drones;
5. Data gathered was manipulated and processed to produce meaningful spatial data.

Ground truthing activity on Caye Caulker was completed in June 2017. The Land Information Centre from the Min-
istry of Natural Resources & Finance provided technical assistance to the Data Centre during this activity. It took
approximately three weeks with a team of four members to complete the ground truthing activity for this region.
During the ground truthing activity, an Open Data Kit (ODK) Collect, which is a mobile application used to aid in
data collection and data processing. Data processing will result in the creation of a building footprint layer and land
use layer for this region. The data processing for this region is expected to take approximately two months.

...contd on Next Pg.

Page 8


... continued from Pg. 3: The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Celebrates 25 Years of Working in Belize
Policy Coordinator for the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries, the Environment, and Sustainable Development, Mr. Yashin Du-
jon, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation; Mrs. Carolyn Trench-Sandiford, President and
Executive Director, Belize Association of Planners/Caribbean Planners Association; Ms. Kay Menzies, Co-Chair,
Economic Development Council-Department of Public-Private Dialogue; and Mrs. Na-
talie Goff, General Manager, Development Finance Corporation..
The IDB/GOB high-level panel was attended by over 70 participants and involved
a dynamic discussion on Belizes development challenges and outlook for sustainable
growth, in the context of prior and existing IDB support to the public and private sectors.
The discussions also highlighted and how the Bank may continue to support national sus-
tainable development goals, highlighting the areas of natural capital, sustainable infrastructure, sustainable cities and
climate change.
At the forum, Ms. Annette Killmer, a key advisor in the Banks Climate Change and Sustainable Development
sector stated In Belize, where natural capital is at the core of economic and social development, mainstreaming
biodiversity and integrating it in key economic sectors with measures to strengthen resilience to climate change
is paramount for sustainable development. Ms. Kilmer further stated that the IDB strongly supports the Govern-
ments Growth and Sustainable Development Strategy, its Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan, and its Sus-
tainable Tourism program.
CZMAI looks forward to working more
closely with IDB to support implementation of the
ICZM Plan in 2017 and beyond and commend them
on the 25th Anniversary of working Belize!

Page 9
 Updates from the Coastal Planning Unit
By: Kleon Coleman, Research Technician

The Coastal Planning Unit has the task to carry out the activities related the ICZM plan.
The plan is in its effectuation stage since it was ap-
proved by the Government of Belize in August 2016.
This phase runs simultaneously with the implementation phase. Cur-
rently, the unit is engaged in two major activities: i) reactivation of the
Coastal Advisory Committees (CAC) for the nine coastal planning
regions; ii) To implement a short term road map of activities from
the plan which can be accomplished within a short period.
With regard to the reactivation of the CACs, to date the
Coastal Planning Unit has held five (5) out of the nine (9) regional
CAC meetings; namely the South-Northern, Southern, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Northern and Caye Caulker Regions.
The purpose of these meetings was to discuss with the CACs what the role of the committee will be going forward.
In the past, the activities of the committees were focused on the creation of the Coastal Zone Management Guide-
line (CZMG) for each planning region. However, since the plan has been adopted by the Government of Belize the
committees roles will be to help the CZMAI to monitor and implement the ICZM plan and CZMGs. During these
meetings, the committees were presented with a brief history of CZMAI and the ICZM plan, how it was developed
and the benefits of the Plan. They, were also presented with the terms of reference for the committee which included
roles, function and the membership.
The Unit is also working to implement a Short Term Road Map of activities to implement the plan. The ob-
jective of road map is to identify activities from within the (ICZM) Implementation Plan that can be accomplished
in short term. The activities presented in the Road map were prioritized according to four (4) major criteria;
Finance, Activity Timeline, Collaboration, and Institution Capacity. The four (4) major criteria were then broken
down into sub categories. These included associated Cost, availability of Funds, accessibility of Funds, time Invest-
ment, priority, relative Time to Completion, potential for Collaboration, amount of Partner Agencies Required,
on-going activities related to activity, equipment availability, In-Country Technical Capacity and Necessity for Ex-
ternal Technical Support for Consultancy Services. After the allocation of the prioritization scores, the lowest overall
scores were considered higher priority. The road map aids in identifying priority activities that the CZMAI can work
towards implementing the ICZM Plan with greater efficiency.

World Oceans Day 2017

By: Chad Bowman, Marketing Officer
World Oceans Day has been promoted globally by The Ocean Project since 2002. In 2008,
The United Nations officially recognized June 8th as World Oceans Day and has since been cele-
brated annually. So why dedicate a day to celebrate our oceans? The oceans contribute to our everyday lives
in many ways by helping to generate some of the oxygen we breathe, regulate our climate, provide us with food and
medicine, and help us keep a sound mind by the beauty it displays. The five oceans of the world connects us globally
and Belize, being bounded to the East by the Caribbean Sea with its diverse marine coastal zone, plays an integral
role in ensuring the preservation and protection of healthy oceans for present and future generations. As the leading
authority tasked with the responsibility of managing Belizes coastal zone, the Coastal Zone Management Authority
and Institute (CZMAI) has been actively organizing and participating in activities to raise awareness, protect and
celebrate Belizes coastal and marine resources as our contribution to maintaining healthy oceans. CZMAI decided
to shape its 2017 World Oceans Day activities around this years theme, Our Oceans, Our
Future and participated in activities which promoted early childhood sensitization of the
need for healthy oceans to preschool children.
...contd on Next Pg.
Page 10
 Children are often excluded from initiatives promoting sustainable practices because limited considerations
are given to their role in safeguarding the environment. It is, however, never too early to engage in sensitization activ-
ities about the worlds oceans and our environment with our children as they can develop a passion for the cause at a
young age and influence decisions made by their parents and guardians. Reaching out to this demographic class can
be deemed necessary, as the earlier they can understand the importance of safeguarding our resources, the higher the
likeliness that they will live to protect our resources such as the oceans.
CZMAI delivered a combination of reading, dramatization, and video
activities to six pre-schools across Belize City( ). The activities were geared towards
igniting a love for the oceans within each child that was present. The kids got an
opportunity to learn about the five oceans and the organisms that exist in it from
characters dramatized by CZMAIs staff. In addition, short video clips were shown
to the children, which included videos from well-known cartoon shows such as The
Bubble Guppies. These videos highlighted anthropogenic impacts and informed the
children of how to minimize or eliminate the adverse effects human actions can have on the oceans and those life-
forms that depends on the ocean, including humans. Furthermore, the children were asked to colour pictures of dif-
ferent underwater creatures. Following this the pictures were placed on a background provided by the CZMAI which
depicted an underwater sea scape. The idea behind the activity was that the children would have their very own ocean
with creatures and that it was their job to take care of it and keep it safe.
World Oceans Day is celebrated once a year, but the awareness should be
active in each and every one of us every day, through the way we live our lives. It is
estimated that 80% of marine pollution is land based, stemming from sources such
as: agricultural run-offs, discharge of nutrients and pesticides and untreated sewage
including plastics. Acknowledging that
we may never be 100% pollution free
and may not have a direct impact on minimizing all the sources of marine
pollution; everyday behaviour such as the management of garbage can go
along way if everyone joins in. Lets save ourselves by saving the oceans.

Progress in CZMAIs Sport Fishing Program

By: Victor Sho, Sportfishing Programme Coordinator

Hello all;
Im, Victor Sho, the sport fishing program coordinator at the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute
(CZMAI). Like the title implies Im here to fill you in on everything fishy! So lets begin. CZMAI sport fishing pro-
gram has seen some major improvements since the last newsletter; from meeting with stakeholders, participating in
outreach activities to engaging in capacity building, we are here to improve the industry.
In January of 2017 we continued to engage stakeholders from across the country to not only listen to their concerns,
but also work along with them to develop potential solutions, both in the short term and long term. How will we im-
plement these solutions? In the short term we will work with stakeholders to address region specific concern. In the
long term we intend to gain a stronger legal frame-work to enable us to do more for sport fishing; this will be done
through legislative and institutional assessment we are undergoing. In order for us to know what legal mechanisms
we need in our regulations and parent act, we requested that the consultants hold sport fishing focus groups with our
stakeholders. In this way, all the potential changes will be geared towards the needs of the stakeholders; so we can
better serve them. The last focus group was held in July 2017, were looking forward the results of this consultation.
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Apart from working on the regulations, we have also been pro-active in reaching out to partners. CZMAI is developing
a working relationship with the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust (BTT); its a research base NGO located in Florida, USA.
BTT have done extensive research on bonefish, tarpon and permit within Belize, Caye West, the Bahamas and other
countries. This relationship will help us gain access to their expertise and will help us to make better science-based de-
cisions. One CZMAI staff member will be attending the Bonefish and Tarpon Trust 8th Annual International Science
Symposium in November 2017; not only will this give Belize representation at this level, but it will also prove to be a
good chance to network and attract potential researchers to Belizean waters. CZMAI is also working along with the
Belize Tourism Board (BTB) to reach out to new tour guides. Every year BTB works along with partners to implement
tour guide training courses across the country, CZMAI will work with BTB to deliver short sessions on the laws and
regulations of the sport fishing industry as well as best practice techniques for sport fishing.
CZMAI has also recognizes that apart from expanding the capacity of its stakeholders, there is also a need to do the
same for its staff. To this end, CZMAI has sought different training opportunities that would help better equip the
sport fishing coordinator carry out his duties. One such training opportunity came in the form a Conflict Resolution
and Negotiation Workshop hosted by the Environmental Research Institute of the University of Belize. The workshop
was geared towards equipping the participants with various techniques to better resolve conflicts and hold negotia-
tions with emphasis on resource base conflicts; much like the kind youd encounter when working with the different
stakeholders and their corresponding interest as it relates to sport fishing.
CZMAI will continue to work towards improving the sport fishing industry with which it has been entrust. We plan to
do so with the help of our partners (both international and domestic), our stakeholders and the general public at large.
Until the next newsletter, we will continue to serve the people of Belize.

Belize River Watershed Study

By: Gilbert Andrews, Environmental Lab Technician
As Belizeans move deeper into the 21st century a number of issues ought to be taken into consid-
eration, but today I will direct my thoughts on how important it is for Belizeans to protect and pre-
serve the Belize River. According to one of our country heroes, Philip Stanley Wilberforce Goldson,
The time to save your country is before you lose it. The Belize River provides freshwater which is vital to the existence
of all organisms in the area. However, this valued resource is constantly being threatened by a growing human popula-
tion which puts additional pressure on this resource through its increasing demand for high quality water for domestic
and economic purposes. The quality of which is influeneced by human activities and natural processes.
If we, the local citizens, do not preserve and protect our waters we will have the remnants of what was once a
quality River. As we look around at how agriculture and big industries in other countries discharge large quantities of
waste into rivers and lakes, we must take note of the adverse effects of these activities on these environments and try to
avoid them. For example, pollution of this kind can alter the water pH and provide excessive bacterial nutrients, this
often compromise the ability of natural processes to inactivate and destroy pathogens, which also affects their phys-
io-chemical characteristics. If we dont protect and preserve our natural resource we will become victims very soon.
As was mentioned in our December issue of the Coastline Newsletter, the CZMAI is conducting a pilot study
on the Belize River looking at changes in water quality associated with land use activities up stream. To do this,
CZMAI is using YSI Exo II sondes to do hourly measurements of the fol-
lowing parameters; pH/ORP, Temperature, Conductivity, Dissolved Oxy-
gen, Chlrophyll and Turbidity. These measurements will be measured for a
year in order to account for seasonal changes and nutrient loading events
caused by weather events. Loggers were installed on October 21st 2016,
therefore, to date we have collected 8 months of data. At the beginnning
of the study three sondes were installed at various points along the Belize
river. However, due to circumstances beyond our control two of the loggers
had to be removed from the river for various reasons.

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Page 12
As a result the only remaining sonde was the one installed at the mouth of the Belize River. We believe that this data is still
very valuable and can give an indication as to the quality of the water that is released into the coastal zone. The data sets
are very large and therefore only very basic analysis has been done so far. With regard to descriptive statistics, over the
time period from November to July 6534 measurements have been recorded. This accounts for one measurmenet taken
every hour, with a few measurements missing which would account for instances when the sonde had to be removed in
anticipation of an extreme weather event. Followinf these events however the sondes were immediately returned to the
site in order to capture nutrient loading which usually occurs after storms since headwaters would experience flooding.
With regard to variation, the standard deviation for many of the variables would suggest that there is high variability
acroos the mea-
sured variable.
This would seem
to be confirmed
by the minimum
and maximum
measurments
indicated in the
table. Howev-
er, in reality the
variation is not
as great. Spiked
measurments
that show up as
maximum and
minimum values are actually representative of outliers that have occured during the time period. These include mea-
surements that may have been recorded during calibration. Additionally, there was an instance when nitrient levels
were high at the river mouth which caused the sonde to be overrun by algae and barnacles. Although this even can
be identified by the chlrophyll measurements, other probes were effected due to the overwhelming presence of the
barnacles. Therefore producing spriked or faulty measurements that may have skewed the statistics. Once the data set
is completed, however, these values will be removed in order for us to get a true sense of what the various parameters
actually were. Additionally, the data collected for each parameter will be compared against precipitation and flow data
for the period, therefore giving an indication of changes in water quality during loading periods. Finally, looking at
the mean values for each parameter we see that the water quality in this area is in good condition. The average value
for chlorophyll being less that 5 is indicative of little to no P-loading in the area. Phosphorous is often used as an indi-
cator for pollution, since it is limiting nutrient in natural systems. Chlorophyll levels correlate to P levels in the system
therefore the average low levels gives a good indication. The temperature and pH are pretty much where you would
expect it in an estaurine environment as well as the Salinity and Total Dissolved Solids. Dissolved oxygen is high which
is good for species that live in the area as well as the turbidity. These values would suggest that potential changes in
water quality as a result of land based activities such as catttle ranching and agriculture is either a) being regulated by
natural features along river banks or b) is manifesting itself in the sediments or species that inhabit the river. Futher
test would be necessary in order to determine the true pituce. I reiterate, however, that these inferences are solely based
on a very basic snapshot of the data.
Lets clamp down on any form of pollution; be it disposing of agricultural, chemical, or sewage waste in the river. If
we keep polluting the Belize River we will soon be faced with a food shortage. In simpler terms, we will have no fish to
eat and no water for human consumption. Let us do our part by protecting and preserving our river, so we can boast
today and keep boasting tomorrow that we have the best water in this region. Belizeans you decide, do you want to lose
it all? Or will we protect and preserve it?

Page 13
 Guest Article: Summer Internship Opportunity with the IDB
By: Giovan Guerra, Corozal Junior College

As a follow-up to an activity that took place during Coastal Awareness Week 2017, as mentioned in the arti-
cle CZMAI Hosts the Third Annual Coastal Awareness Week 2017, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB),
a major sponsor of the week, offered an internship opportunity to one deserving candidate that would be chosen
from a shortlist of students who participated in the competition. During the judging of product presentations, the
judges identified two students from each group that stood out. These students were then interviewed by the IDB and
Mr. Giovan Guerra from Corozal Junior College was selected as the successful candidate. Giovan spent six weeks at
the IDB Country Office in Belize City, where he was attached to the Private-Sector desk supporting the Multilateral
Investment Fund portfolio as well as the Economics unit. The following is a first-hand testimonial of his internship
experience with the IDB:

My name is Giovan Guerra; I live in Orange Walk Town. Currently, I am in pursuit

of an Associate Degree in Business Economics. This past summer, I was an intern for the
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for a total of six weeks. I was introduced to the
Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) portfolio and the work of the Economics Unit.
I got the opportunity to gain practical experience at the IDB in Belize City. For the most part,
internships are meant for individuals to get practical experience and be self-aware of their
potential work place. While my experience at the IDB was no different in this regard, I had
no idea the impact it would have on me personally. The experience was a memorable one,
from the start to finish. From sending the letter of interest to then being interviewed for the
position and to finally being told I was selected, all formed part of new moments in my life.
The staff members were truly welcoming from day one, and the bank got me exposed to meetings, conferences,
and an overall working environment sensation. I developed awareness for the projects that the bank has ongoing and
engaged in small tasks that had to be performed on a regular cycle by the economic sector. I had several assignments
spread out for all working weeks which made way for me to gain knowledge, skills, life lessons and values which have
become a part of my student/professional life.
I placed into practice my educational skills in all the work assigned. All those years of using and practicing
excel, word processor, and PowerPoint software were all finally put to use towards actual physical tasks that were im-
portant to a real job setting. Being in a classroom versus real life, work was a bit overwhelming to me; knowing that
my outputs performed werent going to be graded but that it was going to be used for the banks purpose which had to be
as accurate as possible- is where the real thrill occurred. I gained confidence in knowing that I am capable of handling
assigned duties plus responsibilities.
The internship program passed my original expectations and gave way to an environment I would have never
been a part of if it was not for being selected as the candidate. Within that knowledge, I realized key factors that I need
to improve so as to enhance my professional life in the near future. Issues that previously seemed simple and unimport-
ant are those that need I need to strengthen and correct.
Ultimately, after I went through that little adventure I felt part of something with a great value. Being an intern
at IDB is a milestone! I know its the beginning of where I want to be and the type of organization Id like to be a part
of someday. To anyone who is given the opportunity of being an intern at the IDB or any other place, my only words
would be It will impact your life.

CZMAI takes this opportunity to congratulate Giovan on his successful internship; and, applauds the IDBs
commitment to the sustainable development of Belize including their support of our efforts to sustainably manage
Belizes coastal and marine resources inclusive of activities like Coastal Awareness Week. Through this internship
the IDB provided a platform for the promotion of inclusiveness through mentoring and recruitment. We look for-
ward to working with the IDB to provide similar opportunities in the future.

Page 14
SPECIAL THANKS

CZMAI SERVICES

Page 15
 MISSION STATEMENT:
Our Mission is to lead the sustainable use and planned development of Belizes
coastal resources through increased knowledge and the building of alliances
for the benefit of all Belizeans and the global community.

CZMAI TEAM
Chantalle Samuels Chief Executive Officer
Arlene Young Director

FINANCE, ADMINISTRATIVE, & OPERATIONS

STAFF
Rosanne Constantino Administrative Officer
Whitney Requena Accounts Clerk I
Kachiri Flores Administrative Clerk
Hazel Oshon Janitress
Jason Ferguson Ranger/Boat Captain
Kashiff Stevens Assistant Boat Captain
David Sedasey Driver

MARKETING
Chad Bowman Marketing Officer
Monique Goldson Sales & Marketing Assistant

SPORTFISHING
Victor Sho Sportfishing Coordinator

GIS DATA MANAGEMENT

Maritza Canto GIS Data Manager
Andria Rosado GIS Technician

COASTAL PLANNING
Samir Rosado Coastal Planner
Gilbert Andrews Water Quality Analayst
Kleon Coleman Research Technician
Ellis Requena Boat Captain/WQ Assistant