MONTEGO BAY MARINE PARK

It is the largest marine reserve in the Caribbean and the first national park to be established in Jamaica. Created in 1992, the marine reserve stretches from Sangster airport to the islet of Sea Winds, some 15 ^km2, including the sand spit developed as a beach along the Hip Strip. It is established as a non-profit trust and NGO. Its aim is to protect Montego Bay's marine environment and resources, which comprise three marine environments: mangroves, seaweed and coral reefs. Each is home to numerous plant and animal species, whose survival maintains a fragile ecological balance. A guide to the rules to be respected by all, whether visitors, industrialists or fishermen, and the severe penalties for infringements, has been published. It is available from diving centers. The trust organizes coastal clean-up operations (over 21,000 plastic bottles have been recycled since its creation), and nature protection awareness programs for students and schoolchildren in Montego Bay. Tourists are warned not to touch the coral under any circumstances, as even the slightest contact can cause irreversible damage. Leave plants, shellfish and fish in the water, even if they are dead. Boycott handicrafts made from black coral or sea turtle shell (protected in Jamaica).