Quintana Roo officials propose ecotourism in Manatee Sanctuary

The Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Natural Areas of Quintana Roo (Ibanqroo) is working to modify the Management Program for the Manatee Sanctuary State Reserve in Chetumal Bay. The goal is to allow and regulate ecotourism activities within certain sectors of the Protected Natural Area.

The proposal is being developed by a sub-council including representatives from Ibanqroo, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa), the Quintana Roo Secretariat of Tourism (Sedetur), and the Chetumal Technological Institute (ITCH). The bay has been an environmental protection zone since 1996 to conserve the habitat of the West Indian manatee, an endangered species.

The current stage involves analysis by the sub-council. Before any final approval, the proposal must undergo a public consultation process. Specific authorized activities and locations have not yet been detailed.