Community-based coral reef conservation in the Bay Islands of Honduras

The evolution of a community-based marine conservation effort in the Bay Islands serves as a valuable example toall islands that face similarly conflicting economic and environmental pressures. Like many small developing tropical islands, the main island of Roatلn is undergoing rapid development to accommodate a surge in nature tourism. As the traditional fish and shrimping industries have dwindled, the islandʹs economic base has become increasingly dependent on the growth of reef-based tourism. With pre-existing environmental policies that were insufficient in scope as well as in implementation, the coral reef ecosystem began to suffer severe impacts. Recognizing the critical importance of maintaining the health and quality of this system, yet with no support from the national or local governments, two communities organized among themselves to create and manage a marine protected area. While several recent developments threaten its continued success, this case study nevertheless provides valuable lessons concerning the early processes of building consensus and reserve organization, as well as future potential issues that may arise and threaten such efforts.