In February, the International SeaKeepers Society and Marina Bahia Golfito signed a letter of intent to cooperate on conservation initiatives. The non-profit and the Costa Rica-based marina have now formalized their agreement to become Science & Marina Partners. It’s the first step in what will bring scientists and visiting yacht owners and crew together more effectively. Additionally, it is expected to lead to the creation of a research center on site.
The marina is in Golfito, which sits in proximity to the Osa Peninsula, renown for biodiversity that is unrivaled anywhere else in the world. Similarly, the waters at Marina Bahia Golfito’s doorstep teem with dolphins, whales, manta rays, billfish, sea turtles, sharks, and more. In February, Marina Bahia Golfito invited the board of directors for the International SeaKeepers Society to visit (below). Our editor, Diane M. Byrne, was further invited (standing at middle), as the only journalist. “It took only the moment of our arrival to know that this sacred place with its unparalleled habitat from rainforest to the sea is the ideal location to establish a thriving partnership,” says Jay Wade, SeaKeepers’ board chairman.
Already, the Science & Marina Partners agreement is having an impact. SeaKeepers directors and advisors have met local conservation researchers and scientists, for instance. The non-profit and the marina teams are planning further ways to promote the region’s ocean-conservation efforts, too. One exploratory avenue in particular involves bringing thought leaders, scientists, and activists from around the world to Golfito. Yet another initiative involves supporting visiting scientists.
Perhaps the biggest initiative, though, is the SeaKeepers/Marina Bahia Golfito Marine Research Center. This will be on site at the marina, with laboratories, educational programs, and research vessels. Ultimately, the research center will promote strategic cooperation among local, regional, and international conservation efforts, sharing best practices.
Javier Pacheco, executive president of Enjoy Group and Marina Bahia Golfito, notes that even with the marina’s addition of waterfront residences, “our focus has always been on balancing the beauty of our natural wonders with the growth of this southernmost part of Costa Rica.” Coral planting and regeneration, for example, plus biodiversity monitoring are ongoing during construction. “The richness of marine life and rainforest habitats serve as foremost influences of ecological conscientiousness balanced with a thriving local community,” Pacheco adds.
On behalf of the Science & Marina Partners, Wade says yacht owners, crew, and charter guests who want to assist scientists or otherwise volunteer are welcome.
International SeaKeeepers Society seakeepers.org
Marina Bahia Golfito marinabahiagolfito.com
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