Puerto Rico

State Programs

Coastal Zone Management

Puerto Rico Coastal Zone Management Program. Established in 1978, the 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 Office, working closely with the Planning Board. Projects are considered by examining Puerto Rico's social, ecological, and physical aspects, using advanced technology and involving non-governmental organizations and citizens.

Coral Reef Conservation Program

Puerto Rico Coral Reef Conservation Program. Established in 1999, the program was established “for the management, conservation, and protection of coral reefs for the enjoyment and benefit of the people of Puerto Rico” (Act 147 of 1999). Through this program, monitoring and research activities on corals are coordinated, management strategies are developed and implemented, and 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 acres, this reserve is located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, between the municipalities of Guayama and Salinas. The reserve encompasses parts of Mar Negro and Cayos Caribe, a linear formation of 15 tear-shaped, reef-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 lagoons, and is commercially important for marine recreation, commercial and recreational fishing, and ecotourism. (See handout)