Seacology staff visited the project in March 2022. We witnessed a stunning contrast between the protected area and just outside, where storms and rising sea levels make the waves literally lap at the edges of coastal infrastructure. A group of schoolkids was visiting the site too – young local athletes participating in Play for the Mangroves. They attended a presentation about mangroves and their importance, then hit the water with pool noodles and snorkeling masks to see first-hand the teeming underwater life. After some conditioning drills on the beach, the kids received volleyball and baseball equipment, as well as uniforms. Their excitement about what they learned and experienced was contagious.

Our project partner and members of the local fishing community, who continue to be involved in ecotourism and conservation at Boca Chica, decided not to establish a formal fishermen’s coop. Due to continued erosion, project partner Fundacion Verde Profundo is implementing a “green breakwater” program, using a proven mangrove replanting technique to bolster protection of the area.

Three recent tropical storms damaged many of the mangroves planted thus far, but our nonprofit partner resumed planting after hurricane season was over, in November 2021. They are using new techniques to avoid this type of loss in the future. They have hired fishermen’s co-op members to build 16 ReefScaper domes, which support improvement of the marine ecosystem. FVP staff and fishermen are also building a prototype 12-foot plywood and fiberglass canoe (pirogue). Fishermen and volunteers participated in five mangrove cleanups.

Two fishermen are providing stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and kayak experiences, such as paddling at sunrise and exploring mangroves. The tours include information about mangroves, seagrass, and coral, and the overall project. Youth in the fishers co-op are very excited about getting SUPs, canoes, pedal boats, a sailboat, and masks and fins for snorkeling. An experienced person is now managing rentals and excursions, and co-op members will get business management training soon. There are plans to buy locally built 12-foot plywood and fiberglass pirogues, which will be competitively priced compared to imported canoes. The fishermen will help build the canoes.

Project partner NGO Fundación Verde Profundo (FVP) has focused on connecting with organizations that offer training for co-op development. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, this has not been easy. Nevertheless, FVP has held 11 meetings with the fishermen’s association, sharing documents and videos to help them understand the nature and goals of a co-op. FVP is also receiving guidance from the Dominican Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture. National mangrove expert Pedro Martinez gave excellent feedback to FVP and helped to identify an area suitable for a mangrove nursery at La Matica Mangrove Island. Fishermen’s association members participated in a mangrove clean-up with young volunteers.