A significant step towards protecting sea turtles and their habitats has been taken with the designation of 23 polygons of the Jalisco coast as Protected Natural Areas. The declaration, announced by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), aims to safeguard these vulnerable creatures and their nesting sites.
The protected areas, covering a total of 893,170.382 square meters, are located in Playa Mismaloya, Cruz de Loreto, Cabo Corrientes, Tomatlán, and La Huerta. These coastal regions will now be managed by the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas for conservation and preservation.
Dr. Helios Hernández Hurtado, a renowned biologist, welcomed the declaration of Mismaloya beach as a Protected Natural Area but stressed the importance of a comprehensive management plan to ensure its effectiveness. He emphasized the need to avoid the situation where a protected area exists in name only, without clear guidelines for its preservation.
While the declaration of protected areas is a positive development, the biologist also cautioned about the persistent threats facing sea turtles. Human activities, such as tourism, fishing, and illegal trade, continue to pose significant risks to these creatures. He urged for increased awareness and enforcement of regulations to protect sea turtles and their habitats.
Source: Banderas News
