Montego Bay Marine Park Trust: Guardians of the Bay

The Montego Bay Marine Park Trust stands as a beacon for marine conservation in Jamaica. Established in 1991 after nearly three decades of advocacy, the Trust oversees Jamaica's first marine park, a 15-square-kilometer protected area encompassing diverse ecosystems like coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. The Trust's mission is to conserve and restore Montego Bay's coastal resources for the benefit of the community and the nation. It achieves this through public education programs, financial support, diligent monitoring, and proactive enforcement. The organization collaborates with government agencies, including the National Environment and Planning Authority (NEPA) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, to align its efforts with national objectives and international treaties. The park itself is divided into different zones with varying levels of protection, including two Special Fishery Conservation Areas: Bogue Island Lagoon and Airport Point. These sanctuaries aim to reduce fishing intrusion and promote the restoration of marine habitats. Visitors can explore the underwater wonders of the Montego Bay Marine Park through snorkeling and scuba diving. Regulations are strictly enforced to protect the delicate ecosystems, and several tour operators offer excursions that comply with these guidelines. The Trust also engages in various projects, such as wetland replenishment and the Care & Protect Jamaica program, to further enhance environmental awareness and conservation efforts.