The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) and the Placencia Tour Guide Association (PTGA) recently concluded marine conservation training for tour guides in southern Stann Creek. The trainings, which are part of the BTIA’s pilot project Developing the Next Generation of Marine Conservationists, were co-financed by the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future.
The two-day training consisted of workshops that aimed to improve the understanding and attitudes about marine conservation. Additionally, guides who participated in the training were given information that would help to improve their tour packages as well as the best practices for interacting with the marine eco-system.
Day One Marine Conservation Training
The first day of training which took place on 11 Dec 2024 targeted fourteen marine-focused tour guides. Local historian and veteran tour guide/dive master, Carlton Young, presented on marine biodiversity. He specifically focused on fish reproduction and feeding; and the ecological and archaeological history of Placencia, whilst detailing the development within the village.
Day Two Marine Conservation Training
The second day of training on 12 Dec 2024 targeted thirteen land-focused tour guides. Presentations were made by veteran birder and tour guide, Christian Bech and coral practitioner and experienced tour guide, Mariko Wallen. Bech covered marine biodiversity, specifically focusing on sea birds, turtles, and sting rays. Wallen highlighted the effects of climate change on the coral reef eco-system with an emphasis on land and marine connectedness.
Both workshops also shared information about the Blue Bond and Blue Economy and skill building in conducting online research. Tour Guide Training Consultant, Godwill Torres was the facilitator for that module.
About the BTIA Marine Conservation Project
The BTIA’s project is Developing the Next Generation of Marine Conservationists. It aims to implement a comprehensive classroom instruction package and field visits for over 400 upper-division students. It will also offer training workshops for tour guides from eight communities in southern Belize.
Image: Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA)
