Abstract

As a Party to RAMSAR and the Cartagena Convention, including the SPAW Protocol, Barbados has agreed to protect endangered species and their habitats. The establishment of a protected area for endangered hawksbills nesting at one of the most important rookeries in the Wider Caribbean is an important step in this regard. A scientific study of at-sea hawksbill behaviours observed during the nesting season and documentation of the overlapping use of the same marine areas by stakeholders, has resulted in the drafting of protected area boundaries and area-specific regulations along the south coast of Barbados. Regulations for fishing gear and practices, anchoring practices, allowed vessel types, vessel speeds and disturbance of sea turtles by SCUBA divers have been devel-oped. Consultations are now needed with Government policy makers and scientists, regulatory and enforcement agencies, key stakeholders and the general public, to review the proposed boundaries and regulations, pass legislation and support the development and implementation of a management plan. This consultation process would enhance public awareness, increase support for the proposed marine protected area and nurture potential co-management opportuni-ties.

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