Abstract

The creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is a major component of sustainable development in Grenada, allowing for human use of marine and coastal resources without progressive degradation. Integrated management of the multiple zoned Molinerel Beausejour MPA allowed for the empowerment of adjacent communities and built capacity for contributing to the decision making process. Through consultation, issues arising from user conflicts were addressed and the advice obtained made it possible to geographically demarcate the zonation pattern. Consultation with the community and major resource users allowed for the establishment of a system of moorings at positions appropriate foryachts, dive boats and charter boats, minimi7.ing potential conflicts with the traditional use of the area for fishing. Continued and systematic consultation with community and other stakeholders elucidated the need for solid waste management in the area. This resulted in a joint approach to the problem by the Environmental Health Department, Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority, and the MPA project. A simultaneous beach, coastline and underwater cleanup resulted in beach shoreline operations being handled by community and school groups, and day boat charter companies. The Grenada SCUBA Divers Association and other local dive operators handled the under water operations. The cleanup campaign acted as a catalyst forcontinued and greater community participation in the management of the MPA. Meetings with representatives from the communities were held to raise the awareness of the MPA and the importance of the marine reserves zones. At these meetings the concerns of those affected by the restrictions inherent in reserve areas were considered and the possibility for altemative sources of income examined.

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