Abstract

Parque Nacional del Este is one of the most important protected areas of the Dominican Republic. Its marine areas function as nurseries and natural shelters for important fisheries species, but fishing in critical areas, capture of animals at immature stages of their reproductive cycles, use of massive fishing methods, and overfishing in general constitute serious threats to their productivity. As part of a project designed to study marine mammals and their habitats, an education program was developed directed towards key actors in the conservation of these ecosystems in the coastal communities near the park. The conservation of these habitats will decisively influence the fisheries resources of the region, while at the same time preserving the marine mammals. The program includes punctual and continuous educational actions. The first include a series of talks, theoretical and practical courses, as well as workshops; are directed towards different socio-economical, academic and age groups of the community; and the subjects treated include general marine science and the resources of the park, ranging from basic oceanography, marine biology, and good conservation practices. 181 people participated in this program from the communities of Bayahibe, la Romana and Boca de Yuma, and their ages varied from 11 to 54 years old. A high level of awareness about the conservation of the natural resources of the park was raised, and in many cases their active participation in the marine conservation project was achieved. The volunteers of the marine mammal program is the best option for the continued and personal education of the people of the community, increasing their level of awareness and at the same time allowing them to get involved and contribute to the research and conservation efforts directed towards the natural resources of PNE. The success of this program has made it possible for it to be replicated and extended to other coastal communities, making it possible for a total of 1,325 participants to benefit from it during 2006 - 2007.

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