At the start of day three, we got the opportunity to go snorkeling in
the mangroves. Despite the rainy weather, we all had a great time
observing the plants and animals in this unique habitat. We learned that
mangroves provide an important home for many species of animals -
particularly juvenile fish, sharks and invertebrates. During our first
snorkel at La Chance Rocks we observed an ongoing construction project
in an area north of Alice Town called Bimini Bay. Our instructors told
us that the project in progressing quickly and they have added many news
homes, a sea wall, a beach and a harbor just since the project began.
The next phase of the project is scheduled to include lots more new
homes and an 18-hole golf course that could put a lot of the mangroves,
including the area where we snorkeled, in jeopardy.
When we visited the Bimini Biological Station (Shark Lab) we learned about how the destruction of this vital habitat may have a negative impact not only on the species living in Bimini, but the Caribbean at large. We discussed this matter with a few Biminites at the straw market in Alicetown. Many of them related to us that they have lost business to the new shops at Bimini Bay and have noticed that the dredging for the new harbors have already had an impact on the islands reefs, as well as conch and lobster populations that are so important for the islands economy.
Can you think of ways that the natural resources of Bimini can be preserved, while providing jobs and economic growth for the people of Bimini?
When we visited the Bimini Biological Station (Shark Lab) we learned about how the destruction of this vital habitat may have a negative impact not only on the species living in Bimini, but the Caribbean at large. We discussed this matter with a few Biminites at the straw market in Alicetown. Many of them related to us that they have lost business to the new shops at Bimini Bay and have noticed that the dredging for the new harbors have already had an impact on the islands reefs, as well as conch and lobster populations that are so important for the islands economy.
Can you think of ways that the natural resources of Bimini can be preserved, while providing jobs and economic growth for the people of Bimini?
Educating local people about the importance of conservation and getting their backing for local protected areas is a good place to start.
Once protection is in place there could be increases in tourists wanting to visit the protected area, perhaps increases in sport fish, birding oppertunities, and other things that will draw in visitors and provide jobs and economic growth for the local people.
I know this model has worked in other places, so I hope that people in Bimini will consider it.
The local government usually controls building and building codes. If the local government mandates that the developers follow certain rules and regulations which wouldn't adversely affect the natural resources, the developers would be forced to follow those rules. The developers, if they were truly concerned, could willingly adjust their waterfront projects to keep a natural boundary between the project and the bay.