From Bonefish & Tarpon Trust:
Fort Lauderdale, Fla – Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Belize have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration on science, education, and conservation capacity building in support of Belize’s iconic flats fishery and coastal ecosystems. The signing took place during BTT’s recent 8th International Science Symposium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, an event attended by anglers and advocates from across the Caribbean Sea.
“For us, this partnership reflects shared commitment to safeguarding coastal ecosystems, protecting critical species, and ensuring conservation is guided by science and collaboration,” said Ralna Lewis, Marine Conservation Director, WCS-Belize. “So this MOU not only symbolizes mutual goals but inspires action that strengthens our communities to sustain fisheries and preserve biodiversity for generations to come.”
Jim McDuffie, BTT President & CEO, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for the partnership, saying: “WCS in Belize is renowned for its outreach, stakeholder engagement and institutional capacity building in the public and private sectors. As BTT’s own mission impact grows in Belize and across the region, we are thrilled to collaborate and look forward to the great work we will do together on behalf of the country’s natural resources and all who rely upon them.”
The agreement creates a framework for coordination across several key areas, including research on critical habitats for bonefish, tarpon, and permit; education and outreach for schools and communities; and advocacy for responsible coastal development and sustainable tourism. The MOU also envisions expanding conservation and economic impact through training and professional development opportunities for Belizean fishing guides and community partners, with a focus on empowering women in both commercial and recreational fishing.
“We have been very fortunate to establish a really strong relationship with WCS in Belize,” said Kellie Ralston, BTT Vice President for Conservation and Public Policy. “Formalizing our growing partnership with WCS-Belize reflects the power of shared science, shared purpose, and the shared belief in the critical importance of fishers, fishing guides, and their families for conservation success.”
Highlighting the shared focus on strengthening conservation outcomes, Nicole Auil Gomez, WCS Belize Program Director, expressed support for the collaboration: “WCS Belize welcomes this partnership with BTT as we work together to support sustainable use and stewardship in two of Belize’s iconic marine protected areas—South Water Caye and Glover’s Reef.”