Placencia Residents Defeat Island Erosion on South Silk Caye

Coastal erosion has always been a monster, claiming small islands, eradicating natural habitats for marine life, and disrupting communities and their livelihood for as long as can be remembered, but in Belize, the combined efforts of over 250 Placencia residents were able to defeat that monster through a joint conservation effort which was able to reclaim South Silk Caye.

Today, the small island which has been a major means of income for Placencia residents, as well as a recreation spot for locals, is a testament to the priceless, unmatched, and valiant efforts that Belizeans are willing to contribute towards the protection of what matters most to them. After two months of voluntary and arduous work, South Silk Caye is back to being intact and is now fully protected against the aggressive waves by a 135-foot, wall barricade. The barricade, made from huge slabs of stone, was secured into place manually by locals with the assistance of technical experts. On July 23^rd, amid the sweet sounds of Garifuna drumming, a short prayer, and a ceremony, South Silk Caye was officially reopened, thanks to the quick action of local environmental watchdogs.

While Belizeans and even visitors to Belize are proud of the successful conservation effort, our very own Marketing Manager at Chabil Mar, Larry France said that he, ‘’was personally pleased with how the community in Placencia came together to save Silk Caye.’’ France added that the level of support and commitment among the Placencia community is nothing short of inspiring and must be commended.

Two months ago, South Silk Caye, situated 22 miles east of Placencia Village, was thrust into the spotlight after local tour guide and fisherman Eworth Garbutt made a public plea for assistance from the local community to save Silk Caye which was disappearing fast. Like its siblings, Middle Silk Caye and North Silk Caye, which have already fallen victims to coastal erosion, the caye was also being swallowed up by the sea in huge chunks.

Garbutt eventually managed to convince stakeholders to take matters into their own hands and rebuild the caye, however that was later met by resistance by the Government who insisted that Garbutt and his team were in contravention of Regulations 15 (1) of the Fisheries Act, Revised Edition 2000. That particular regulation had stated that because the caye was located inside a marine reserve, it required approval from the Fisheries Department as well as an EIA by the Department of the Environment. At the time Garbutt was taken into custody but was later released without any charges. A meeting between him and government officials was able to figure out a plan of action on how the parties involved could work together for the greater good.

South Silk Caye can be found on the outer reef, straddled with coral formations, rich marine wildlife, and an amazing view. The Caye has been a major attraction for visitors and locals alike who would take the 1.5 hours boat ride to swim side by side with whale sharks, outside of the reef, and other marine animals, such as nurse sharks, rays, and sea turtles, that are known to hang around the island.