**Fishermen Alarmed by Fishing Ban on Isla de Espíritu Santo**
Seventeen years ago, fishermen, nautical tourism service providers, civic associations, and relevant authorities teamed up to establish the Isla Espíritu Santo Protected Natural Area (ANP). Today, these same groups are now united again, this time to express their concerns about the proposed changes to the Management Plan, which aims to prohibit shoreline, sport, and artisanal fishing in this iconic area of La Paz.
Notable voices like Roberto Flores, an environmental and conservation consultant who also played a significant role in the creation of Parque Espíritu Santo, have confirmed these concerns. Flores mentioned that the Management Plan is technically complex and requires periodic updates every few years. However, he feels that the current criteria for modification, which began in 2020, do not justify the level of changes being proposed now.
Rumors of new restrictions prompted stakeholders to obtain the draft plan via the National Transparency Platform (PNT). “The draft indeed included prohibitions on sport and commercial fishing, along with restrictions on private boats and individual visitors,” stated the consultant.
The proposed modifications have generated significant worry among the concerned parties, fearing limited time for public defense once the plan is made publicly available. Reports suggest that the new plan may enter public consultation before President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s term ends, possibly in August or September.
Flores criticized the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp) for lacking transparency and being overly authoritarian under the guise of conservation. He fears that without the final draft, there are no guarantees for any sector involved.
The plan’s potential impact on local economies and traditional fishing practices adds to the anxiety. “This could spark social conflict, as such impositions would disrupt laws and traditional fishing activities, impacting the local economy,” Flores concluded.
The Parque Nacional Archipiélago Espíritu Santo was established by decree on May 10, 2007, in the Gulf of California and covers 587 square kilometers. The area is noted for its unique biodiversity, housing over 200 species of vascular plants, 53 of which are endemic, and a variety of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
**Over 160 Fishermen at Risk**
José Flores, leader of the Federation of Fishing Cooperatives (Fedecoop) in Central Baja California Sur, highlighted that the proposed plan would severely impact over 160 local fishermen and their families. The economic ripple effect would extend to restaurant supply chains and local markets that depend on fresh fish.
He stated, “It’s suspicious and regrettable that an area so vital for the local economy and tradition, one that provides healthy food to La Paz, is facing such drastic measures.”
Arturo Bocos, a biologist and businessman in the diving industry, also dismissed the need for a fishing ban, arguing that scientific data does not support such drastic measures. Instead, improved surveillance to prevent illegal fishing could be more beneficial, he suggested.
Efforts to get a response from Conanp authorities on this issue are currently underway.
**Secondary Article: Fishing Industry Faces Uncertain Future Amid Regulatory Changes**
Amid the controversy surrounding the Isla de Espíritu Santo Management Plan, the local fishing industry in Baja California Sur is teetering on the edge of instability. Recent gatherings among fishermen, regulators, and local government officials reveal heightened tension and a pressing need for more open dialogue.
Fishermen argue that the proposed regulations not only threaten their livelihoods but also undermine traditional practices that have been sustained for generations. Alejandro Perez, another local fisherman, pointed out, “This plan could force us out of business. Many families depend on this income, and the ban seems to disregard our role in the local economy.”
The fishing community is hopeful that the upcoming public consultation will allow all affected parties to voice their concerns and work towards a more balanced approach to conservation and local sustenance.
In light of these developments, stakeholders urge for a more transparent and inclusive decision-making process to ensure the preservation of Isla Espíritu Santo without compromising the livelihood of local fishermen. The path forward remains uncertain, but the call for transparency and fairness is louder than ever.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for further updates on this pressing issue affecting Baja California Sur.
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