Puerto Rico

State Programs

Coastal Zone Management

Puerto Rico Coastal Zone Management Program. Established in 1978the program started as part of Puerto Rico's land use plan. The Department of Environmental and Natural Resources leads the program through the Coastal Zone and Climate Change Program Officeworking closely with the Planning Board. Projects are considered by examining Puerto Rico's socialecologicaland physical aspectsusing advanced technology and involving non-governmental organizations and citizens.

Coral Reef Conservation Program

Puerto Rico Coral Reef Conservation Program. Established in 1999the program was established “for the managementconservationand protection of coral reefs for the enjoyment and benefit of the people of Puerto Rico” (Act 147 of 1999). Through this programmonitoring and research activities on corals are coordinatedmanagement strategies are developed and implementedand alliances are promoted to reduce threats and promote the conservation of these ecosystems.

National Estuarine Research Reserves

Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Designated in 1981 and protecting 2,883 acresthis reserve is located on the southern coast of Puerto Ricobetween the municipalities of Guayama and Salinas. The reserve encompasses parts of Mar Negro and Cayos Caribea linear formation of 15 tear-shapedreef-fringed mangrove islands extending westward from the southern tip of the mouth of Jobos Bay. Jobos Bay supports extensive healthy seagrass beds. This reserve also includes extensive upland dry forests and lagoonsand is commercially important for marine recreationcommercial and recreational fishingand ecotourism. (See handout)