What is a Marine Protected Area (MPA)?

June 15, 2017

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are marine waters set aside to protect or conserve marine life, and its associated habitat. MPAs have varying levels of protections and allowed uses, from “no-take” zones to those that allow some forms of fishing. Just as parks on land protect wildlife and habitat from overdevelopment and hunting, these underwater parks preserve stunning marine ecosystems for future generations to observe and enjoy.

ReefCI is located in a Marine Protected Area (MPA) known as the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve Park! The Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve Park, is located at the southern end of the Belize Barrier Reef system. The reserve is separated by three zones; conservation, preservation and general use zone. Just by coming on a trip with ReefCI you are supporting Marine Protected Areas as part of your trip cost goes to protecting and patrolling of these vital marine conservation areas. The following further explains MPA’s but in cartoons!