Mission Vision The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) PACT will be a world-class national funding is an environmental trust fund serving an organization promoting the sustainable use, enabling and empowering role in the conservation, preservation, enhancement, and conservation, preservation, enhancement, and management of ’s natural resources and management of Belize’s natural resources and protected areas. PACT will be an enabling agent protected areas. Through a strategic, clear, for government and nongovernment equitable, flexible, and transparent process of organizations, communities, and individuals to grant making for projects, PACT supports the work together in a successful national quest for involvement of large and small organizations to sustaining Belize’s bountiful natural heritage for implement programmes and projects which the environmental, social, and economic benefit enhance the quality of life for Belizeans and of present and future generations of Belizeans. Belize’s role as a world leader in environmental conservation while supporting national developmental goals.

The Board The Advisory Council

Mrs. Beverly Castillo James Azueta Chair Chair Ministry of Natural Resources Natural Resources Management Background & the Environment

Mr. Silvano Cobb Mr. David Craig Belize Fisheries Cooperative Association Vice Chair

Belize Audubon Society Mr. Brian Woodye

Institute of Archaeology Department Mrs. Zita Perez

Ministry of Finance Mr. Martin Alegria

Ministry of Natural Resources & the Mrs. Tracy Panton Environment Belize Board

Ms. Laura Esquivel Ms. Candy Gonzalez J.D. Belize Tourism Board Belize Alliance of Conservation Non- Government

Organization Dr. Phillip Morgan

University of Belize Mrs. Jessie Young

Community Based Organization Mr. Michael Singh

Dr. John Morris Ministry of Tourism Institute of Archaeology Mr. Emil Mena Mrs. Cecilia Neal Finance Expert Belize National Tour Operators Association

Ms. Janet Gibson Mr. Peter Tonti Natural Resource Management Expert Belize Tourism Industry Association

Dr. Vincent Gillett Mr. Edilberto Romero Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute Finance Expert

Christine Valerio PACT Staff Project Officer- Small Grants Program Sharon Ramclam Executive Director Leonel Requena Assistant Project Officer Gregory Maheia Director of Finance and Administration Darrel Audinette Project Officer – Capacity Building Program Victor Alegria Grants Programme Director Michael Pipersburgh Project Accounts Clerk Nayari Diaz Vanessia Burke Technical Programme Coordinator Executive Assistant

Angela Usher Lorena Ramirez Accountant Grants Administrative Assistant

Modesta Cal Farrah Tingling Administrative Officer Receptionist

Mark Zelaya Kevin Maddison Senior Accounts Clerk Driver

Current PACT staff

Contents Message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment .... 6 Message from the Chairperson ...... 7 Message from the Executive Director ...... 8 Grants Application, Selection and Approval Process ...... 9 Large Grants Program ...... 10 Small Grants Program ...... 12 Support Grants...... 14 Capacity Building Program ...... 15 Short Term Training Grants: ...... 15 Workshop & Professional Development ...... 15 Scholarship Grants ...... 17 Research Grants ...... 18 PACT Foundation ...... 19 MARFUND ...... 21 Environmental Donations ...... 23 Financial Report ...... 25 Audited Financial Report ...... 39

5 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment

In order to accomplish its vision, the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT), continues to play a critical role in providing the necessary financial resources for the management of Belize’s network of protected areas. I am delighted to present to you the PACT’s 2008-2009 annual report and to announce the initial steps to steps to transform the Protected Areas Conservation Trust.

With the multitude of threats facing , as well as the scarce financial resources within management entities to respond to these threats, there must be close coordination among responsible organizations in order to make the best use of these resources, minimise duplication of efforts and increase efficiency. Therefore, all efforts must be made to coordinate and collaborate at all levels to bring about the best administrative approach to management of protected areas.

Since 1997, the PACT has financed more than two hundred projects and invested approximately $17 million dollars locally in benefit of conservation and sustainable development. This is a tremendous investment, and this Trust is now looking at innovative options to diversify its revenue base. I must highlight also that since its inception, the PACT has gained international visibility for being a unique and innovative long term sustainable financing mechanism for conservation and many countries have attempted but failed to replicate the PACT. The transparent and accountable systems of collecting revenues, investing and managing grants are its key competences, its public-private partnership is its hallmark and the PACT is now looking to strengthen its ability to grow the fund.

Some partners however, actually perceive the combat against environmental problems such as environmental degradation and climate change, as a tremendous business opportunity. I congratulate the PACT Board and Management for embracing this challenge, and “Boldly Moving Forward”, particularly at a time, when funding to the region and Belize is at an all time low.

As the national trust, PACT will need to prioritize and make the strategic investments over the coming years. Ensuring that it maintains a steady supply of funds for protected areas management is therefore PACT’s commitment. I also thank you all for your continuous efforts in preserving our natural heritage and assure you that the Government stands committed to working alongside all of you in this endeavor.

Sincerely

Honorable Gaspar Vega Deputy Prime Minister

6 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Message from the Chairperson

The fiscal year 2008-2009 marked another productive year for the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) in its efforts to strengthen its enabling and empowering role in protected areas and natural resource management in Belize.

During this year, PACT’s work continued to be guided by the National Protected Areas Policy and System Plan (NPAPSP) as well as its continued participation on the National Protected Areas Commission (NPAC) and increased collaboration with local and international partner. During the fiscal year, PACT invested over $3 million dollars in new and ongoing project grants and other conservation initiatives as well as the capacity building efforts of our stakeholders. In conjunction with this investment, and through its collaborative efforts with stakeholders, PACT continued to define and strengthen its Mentorship Program, which it will continue implementing in the upcoming fiscal year.

Recognizing that nurturing and creating partnerships and networks is crucial for the effectiveness of its efforts, PACT continued its partnerships with the MesoAmerican Reef Fund (MARFund), and PACT Foundation while engaging the Oak Foundation in a partnership to finance marine conservation initiatives. As part of its regional networking, PACT also hosted the 10th Annual General Assembly of the Latin American and Network of Environmental Trust Funds (RedLAC) held in Belize for the first time. PACT also joined the world in celebrating International Year of the Reef (IYOR) 2008 and supported local initiatives such as a Reef Symposium and Gala which highlighted the importance and need for marine conservation.

The year culminated with the development of a Communications Strategy which has poised PACT with the opportunity to strengthen its relationship with stakeholders, more effectively promote its work and that of its grantees hence advancing its mission of promoting sustainable management and development of Belize’s protected areas.

PACT’s Board, Management and Staff are grateful to all its stakeholders and partners and invite you to join us in celebrating the achievements highlighted in this annual report.

Beverly Castillo

Chairperson, Board of Directors

7 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Message from the Executive Director

Since its establishment 13 years ago, the PACT has invested some $17 million dollars in grant funding that has supported over 200 projects to various government agencies and non-government organizations, including community based, grass root organizations. All of these projects focused on conserving our natural heritage, and span the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country.

PACT’s success to date has been a collaborative effort and is achieved with the support of our stakeholders and partners in conservation and development. Specifically, I would like to acknowledge the Government of Belize, communities, non-government organizations, conservation and tourism partners, other funding organizations and the private sector for their continued commitment, vision and belief in the idea of the PACT. Today, the PACT serves as a model that demonstrates that public and private sector interests can co-exist for the continued protection of our environment. Even today, the idea of a PACT is still novel in many parts of the world. Indeed, we have morphed from just a concept in 1991 into a viable and sustainable institution with proven capacity to direct financial resources towards the protection and conservation of Belize’s abundant natural resources.

Despite our successes, PACT realizes that Belize’s extensive protected areas system, with its diverse and complex management regimes and challenges require a PACT that is dynamic, creative, innovative and responsive to the needs of the stakeholders and the protected areas system. Thus, the PACT is now at an important point in its evolution where it must now assess its capacity as an institution to “promote the sustainable management of Belize’s Protected Areas” by ensuring that its programs and processes remain efficient, effective and relevant. Such an undertaking will require a comprehensive institutional assessment that will set the stage for strategic transformation of the PACT into the preeminent sustainable financing mechanism for conservation in Belize. Simultaneously, PACT will also commence the preparation of its third strategic plan to guide the institution into 2015. I sincerely hope that you will remain active partners and supporters of the PACT. I encourage you to join me, the PACT staff and Board as we embrace this strategic repositioning of the PACT and boldly move forward.

Sharon Ramclam

Executive Director

8 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Grants Application, Selection and Approval Process All project applications submitted to PACT undergo three levels of screening: an eligibility screening process carried out by PACT’s Internal Screening Committee, a technical evaluation done by the Advisory Council (AC) and a final review by PACT’s Board of Directors who then makes the final decision on all grants.

The first screening process by the ISC ensures the completeness of the application and general evaluation of the application. Secondly, the Advisory Council focuses on the technical merits, feasibility and relevance of the application to PACT’s mission, strategic plan, NPAPSP and any other relevant policy. Finally, projects that are recommended by the AC are presented to the Board of Directors for final consideration.

Grant Application and Approval Process

9 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Large Grants Program Through the Large Grants Program, PACT seeks to implement the National Protected Areas Policy and System Plan. These projects should leverage PACT funds for national and/or regional impact. Large Grants are offered for eligible projects over $100,001 to a maximum of $400,000. Each Large Grant must be implemented within a period of two years.

PACT awarded a new large grant valued at BZ$433,811.00 to support strengthening of the marine reserve network. Through the Belize Fisheries Department, the project aims to build organizational capacity, through the acquisition of necessary equipment and infrastructure upgrade, and apply holistic integrated management to the Marine Reserves Network through coordination and marketing as a national system. The administration of five ongoing large grants continued and is outlined in the table below. TIDE’s project was successfully closed this year and its major achievements were the development of a fire management plan; acquisition of fire management equipment and training; construction of a fire lookout tower; establishment of an improved communication system at the park; demarcation of park boundaries and production of the new map; improvement of docking facilities; and implementation and evaluation of their environmental education program.

Table 3: List of Ongoing and New Large Grants

Organization Title/ Description Duration Status Date Amount Approved Department Improving Protected Areas 4 yrs. & 3rd yr. Feb. 20, $889,989.98 Management in Belize through the 10 months 2004 Institutional Strengthening of the Biodiversity Management Programme of the Forest Department Objectives: 1. To strengthen and revitalize the Biodiversity Management Programme of the Forest Department (FD) in order to improve the effectiveness of the FD in carrying out its mandate; 2. Provide direction and guidance to the FD’s programmes and subprogrammes; 3. To provide direction for the effective administration and development of protected areas.

Toledo Institute Improving the Management of Payne’s 3 yrs. & 2 Comple Dec 16th, $362, 340 for Development Creek National Park months ted 2005 and Environment Objectives: 1. To improve the fire management program; 2. Improve education and enforcement programs; 3. Reduce human induced threats to the park.

Belize Audubon Towards the Sustainability of BAS 3 yrs. & 2nd yr. Sept. 30th, $800,000.00 Society Managed Protected Area’s 1 month 2005

10 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Objectives: 1. To decrease anthropogenic threats to biodiversity and natural resources at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Natural Monument; 2. To strengthen the biodiversity information system within BAS; 3. To increases the level of sustainability within the PA’s through expansion and furthers the development of tourism infrastructure compatible with biodiversity.

Belize Fisheries Towards the sustainability of the 2 yrs. 1st yr. March $433,811.00 Department Marine Reserves Network (MRN) in 31st,2009 Belize Objectives: 1. To decrease illegal activities and promote safety at the marine reserves, co-management partners and operation center. 2. To minimize user conflicts and abolish anchor damage in the protected marine areas and highly visited marine recreation areas. 3. To strengthen the central operational center within the Marine Reserve Network and stakeholders. 4. To increase public awareness on marine protected areas in Belize. 5. Enhancement of staff capacity in monitoring, research, enforcement, environmental education and public relations.

University of Belize Developing the University of Belize 3 yrs. 3rd yr. Nov. 11, $900,000.00 Natural Resource Management 2005 Program

Objectives: 1. Establish endowed chairs in marine coast resources management and terrestrial/ watershed resource management; 2. Identify and prioritize research needs; 3. Identify and prioritize training needs; 4. Identify potential agencies to create networks; Purchase equipment and vehicle.

Friends for Sustainable Management Program 3 yrs. & 2nd yr. Oct. 6, $839,353.20 Conservation & for the core conservation of the 1 month 2006 Development Chiquibul Maya Mountain Key Biodiversity Area Objectives: 1. To establish an administrative structure for the ; 2. To establish a viable & integrated sustainable management program; 3. To reduce illegal incursions in the CMMKBA To develop & institute a cooperation building & public awareness strategy.

Sarstoon Temash Implementation of the Management 2 yrs. 2nd yr. August $262,500.00 Institute for Plan for the Sarstoon Temash 15, 2007 Indigenous National Park Management Objectives: 1. To protect the flora and fauna of the STNP; 2. To foster community cooperation and Sarstoon Temash regional cohesion.

11 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Small Grants Program The Small Grants Program established in 1997 is the first grant program at PACT and continues to provide financial support primarily to Community Based Organizations for protected areas management and conservation. Under the Small Grants Program, prospective grantees submit proposals in response to “Calls for Proposals”, which are advertised at least once a year. Small Grants range from $10,001.00 up to BZ $100,000.00 and must be completed within one year.

During the 2008-2009 fiscal year six small grants were awarded. The Awardees included the Southern Environmental Association (SEA) who received $98,700.00. The Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD) working in the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in the Corozal District received $50,235.00. The Physical Planning Section, Department of Lands and Surveys, Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE) received $69,155.35. The Ya’axche Conservation Trust which co-manages Bladen and the Golden Stream Corridor Reserve received $99,875.00. The Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMA&I) was awarded $100,000.00 for management of the Goff`s Caye Special Management Area, and $40,200 was awarded to the Belize Fishermen Cooperative Association (BFCA).

The Small Grants Program portfolio also includes the administration of PACT’s Support Grants, PACT Foundation Grants and Meso-American Reef Fund (MARFund) Grants.

Table 1: List of Small Grants Approved for period April 1st, 2008 to March 31st, 2009.

Organization Title/ Description Duration Status Date Approved Approved Southern Environmental 1. Community Participation 13 Ongoing 28th $98,700 Association (SEA) in Marine Monitoring in months November, Southern Belize 2009 Objectives: 1. Develop a core team of trained community researchers 2. Provide community with information about monitoring activities and the status of the resources within the park 3. Implement monitoring plan with assistance from community researchers 2. Strengthening Policy and 13 Ongoing 28th $69,155.35 Ministry of Natural Resources legal framework for Belize months November, and the Environment (MNRE) pier and construction 2008 management program Objectives: 1. To strengthen the legal framework and guidelines for coastal works with the involvement of stakeholders 2. To improve database of piers and other coastal works with the assistance of stakeholders 3. To increase public awareness of policies and guidelines for the erection of coastal works, and 4. To increase coordination and cooperation among stakeholders.

Ya’axche Conservation Trust 3. Strengthening the 13 months Ongoing 28th November, $99,875 (YCT) Southern Maya 2008 Mountains’ core protected areas

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Objectives: 1. CRFR management plan is prepared using an integrated landscape approach with cross reference to management plans of interconnected Protected Areas including (BNR) 2. Site support and infrastructure management program enables effective operation, administration and management of BNR 3. Develop baseline information and framework required for effective management of biodiversity and cultural heritage within BNR 4. Species and are maintained by enhanced protection program 5. Buffer communities are aware of the importance of BNR and are receiving tangible benefits 6. BNR is acknowledged as a critical natural area of Belize and , and serves as a model of Nature Reserve Management.

Sarteneja Alliance for 4. Preparing Sarteneja for 1 year ongoing 28th $53,235 Conservation and Co-Management of Corozal November, Development (SACD) Bay Wildlife Sanctuary 2008

Objectives: 1. Establishing planning framework for effective management for Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. 2. Implement surveillance and enforcement activities for Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Coastal Zone Management 5. The sustainable 1 year ongoing 28th $103,000 Authority and Institute Development of the GOFF’s November, (CZMA&I) Caye Special Management 2008 Area (GCSMA)

Objectives: 1. Promote the sustainable use of Goff’s and other Cayes in the GCMA, including the resources and unique surrounding habitats. 2. Monitor the user fee system implemented for the Goff’s Caye Management Area and expand fee collection system 3. Build capacity to mitigate impacts from high tourist visitation and severe weather event 4. Build support for and enhance public awareness for the sustainable use and effective management of the GCMA

Belize Fishermen Cooperative 6. Development of a 1 year ongoing 28th $43,200 Association (BFCA) Strategic Plan for the Belize November, Fishermen Cooperative 2008 Association to allow them to participate fully in the resource management process

Objectives: 1. To develop an appropriate and implementable Strategic plan for the Belize Fishermen Cooperative Association. 2. To involve industry stakeholders in the development of the Strategic Plan

13 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Support Grants Through the Support Grants Program, PACT provides financial assistance to smaller, less established organizations and associations, to develop and implement short term projects, activities or initiatives that are worthy. The main purpose of this contribution is to assist these organizations with projects that contribute to the betterment of the environment and natural resources management.

This year, seven support grants were awarded as presented in the table below.

Table 2: List of Support Grants Approved for period April 1st, 2008 to March 31st, 2009.

Organization Description Duration Status Date Approved Approved Amount

Aguacaliente Two months consultancy to 2 months Completed July 22, $7,900.00 Management Team coordinate AMT 2008 programmatic activities

National Federation of Hosting of 2nd Annual 1 month Completed August 5, $2,923.00 Community Based Co- General Meeting 2008 Managers

Coastal Zone Coastal Zone Management 6 months Completed September $10,000.00 Management Authority Authority & Institute 30, 2008 & Institute management of the Goff`s Caye Management Area Community Baboon Development of a 6 months Ongoing November $10,000.00 Sanctuary Women`s comprehensive Marketing 3, 2008 Conservation Group Plan for the Belize River Valley Communities

Friends of Gra Gra Solid waste eradication and 6 months Completed December $8,598.00 Lagoon Conservation capacity building project 1, 2008 Group Community Baboon Support to Belize River 6 months Completed December $20,570.00 Sanctuary Women`s Valley Communities to assist 10,2008 Conservation Group with community livelihood activities following Tropical Depression #16

Programme for Belize Support to Douglas Village to 6 months Completed December $20,000.00 assist with community 10 , 2008 livlihood activities following Tropical Depression # 16

Total $79,991.00

14 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Capacity Building Program Through the Capacity Building Program, PACT seeks to build capacity of stakeholder organizations and individuals so that they are better equipped to carry out more effective management, advocacy, promotion and protection of Belize’s Natural and cultural resources. At present, PACT provides four (4) different capacity building grant types. These include Scholarship Grants, Research Grants, and Short-term Training Grants encompassing Professional Development Grants and Workshop Grants. The Capacity Building Program also incorporates an internship program that facilitates the placement of interns from various local and international sources to local environmental NGO’s, CBO’s and Governmental Agencies. Short Term Training Grants:

Workshop & Professional Development The Short Term Training Grant for professional development was established to enable administrative and technical staff, and decision-makers of eligible organizations to attend short- courses, conferences, workshops, seminars, or symposiums that are designed to strengthen their capacities to more effectively and efficiently manage Belize’s natural resources and protected areas. Grants are awarded both proactively and reactively depending on established priority areas and the types of requests received. This year’s key areas of training requests included training in Database management, sustainable techniques, research, monitoring and evaluation, logical framework design, and participation in several regional and international conferences. Short Term Training Grants funded, totaled $62,731.00.

Table 4: List of Workshop and Professional Development Grants Approved for period April 1st, 2008 and March 31st, 2009.

Name of Title/description Objective Amount Date Duration Organization/ Approved Approved Individual Ministry of Practical To develop knowledge in $1,250.00 April April 24-25, Agriculture interpretation of proper use of fertilizers 16,2008 2008 and Fisheries results of soil analysis and methodologies in soil for optimum fertilizer analysis for effective use in crop cultivation conservation and soil management

Belize 11th International To participate and $1,400.00 May July 7-11, 2008 Fisheries Symposium represent Belize 29,2008 Department internationally in this event as a part of IYOR activities in Belize to enhance awareness of coral reef conservation

Rio Blanco Special Police To certify Park Rangers as $1,365.00 July 31, August 4- Mayan Constable Training Police Constables 2008 8,2008 Association Renison Post Graduate Degree To build the capacity of $45,819.50 August 8, September Enriquez in Tropical Coastal individuals serving an 2008 2008-

15 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

management integral part of September (University of conservation in Belize 2009 Newcastle, UK) Forest Fomento del manejo To engage government $1,162.50 August 13, August 28-29, Department del Ecosistema officials from three 2008 2008 Trinacional de la Selva participating countries in Maya (Belize, conservation of trans- , and boundary protected areas. ). Programme for Specialized Birder’s To develop ornithological $3,000.00 September December 2008 Belize Certificate Programme knowledge among 25, 2008 (BCP) stakeholders

(National XII Congress for the To participate in $1,146.00 November November 10- Protected Mesoamerican Society discussions of issues in 6, 2008 14, 2009 Areas for Biology and conservation and research Commission) Conservation (MSBC) and to facilitate networking among regional partners Forest 2nd workshop of the To participate in this 2nd $1,500.00 November November 27- Department project “Fomento del tri-national conference on 24, 2008 28, 2008 Manejo del the conservation of trans- Ecosistema boundary protected areas Tranacional de la Selva Maya” (Belize, Guatemala and Mexico). Cornerstone scholarship To enable and promote $1,085.00 December January-June Christian asssistance for two educational opportunities 10, 2008 2009 Academy students for one among students in the key semester protected areas buffer community of Sarteneja Village

Association of Rational Database To provide participants $5,000.00 February March 2-7, Protected Management and with the basic skills 10, 2009 2009 Areas Summary Statistics necessary to organize, Management manage and summarize Organization ecological data. (APAMO) Forest Monitoring, To enable more effective October October 27-31, Department, Evaluation and Logical M&E with new tools and (34,692.00) 2008 2008 Fisheries Framework techniques and Department, Development introduction of Logical APAMO, TIDE, workshop Framework Approach to SEA,YCT,FCD, participating organizations Belize Audubon Society, Programme for Belize, SATIIM Total $71,662.22

16 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Scholarship Grants By design, PACT’s Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to Belizeans attending or accepted to attend recognized tertiary level institutions in Belize, abroad or through distance learning programs. Though PACT provides scholarships to pursue studies at the Associates, Bachelors, and Masters level, annual funding priorities are established based on analysis of the capacity needs of stakeholders. In addition to the responsive scholarship funding, PACT has been developing relationships or partnerships with key universities where it can leverage its funding. As a result of these efforts, PACT has identified some specific scholarships that it publishes and awards on a yearly basis. This year, PACT awarded a total of three (3) Bachelors Degree scholarships in Natural Resources Management at the University of Belize. Recipients of these scholarships were from the Orange Walk, Cayo and Belize districts and were awarded at a total of $37,000.00.

Table 5: List of Scholarship Recipients for 2008-2009.

Name of Program of Institution Amount Date Duration District Individual Study Approved Approved Ivanna Bachelors- University of $12,000.00 August 8, August 2008 CAYO Waight Natural Belize 2008 – May 2010 Resources Management Diana Mai Bachelors- University of $13,000.00 August 8, August 2008 ORANGE Natural Belize 2008 – May 2010 WALK Resources Management Gail McNab Bachelors- University of $12,000.00 August 8, August 2008 BELIZE Natural Belize 2008 – May 2010 Resources Management Total $37,000.00

2008 PACT scholarship recipients with Board Chair

17 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Research Grants The purpose of Research Grants is to support research to establish an effective knowledge and information base providing baseline data for effective decision making in the management of the natural resources of Belize. These grants are provided to eligible students interested in conducting thesis research or to organizations conducting research in the establishment of site or system level baseline data relative to the protected area they manage. Research priority areas identified include, but are not limited to, ecosystems, biodiversity, habitats, species and community development. In its proactive approach, PACT, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, identifies research opportunities and publicize a call for research proposals.

This year, no new research grants were awarded as the organization is conducting a comprehensive internal evaluation of the Research Grants Program. This assessment will provide recommendations for the strategic re-engineering of the program; thus improving administrative efficiency and research impacts.

However, two new grants continued to be administered as outlined below:

Table 6: List of Ongoing Research Grant Recipients.

Name of Research Area Objective Amount Date Duration Individual Approved Approved Omar Spatial Ecology & To determine the population $29,000.00 November November 30, Figueroa Conservation of the status of the in Central 21, 2007 2007- March Jaguar (Panthera Belize in addition to 10, 2009 onca) in Belize describing spatial and * Extension temporal parameters of the pending home range and movement Faustino Long term patterns of To quantify the efforts of $30,940.00 November November 29, Chi recovery in the disturbance from Hurricane 21, 2007 2007-February mangrove forest and Hattie and subsequent 13, 2009 island changes from storms on the community * Extension hurricanes at and landscape level pending Turneffe Atoll, Belize dynamics in mangrove forest at Turneffe Atoll

TOTAL $59,940.00

PACT Research Grantee, Mr. Omar Figueroa tracking Jaguars near Runaway Creek Private Reserve

18 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

PACT Foundation

On September 28th, 2001 the Government of Belize signed the Debt for Nature Swap with the United States Government and local NGOs. This agreement required for the US Government, with funds from The Nature Conservancy (TNC), to retire $9 M US in debt from the Government of Belize. In return, the Belizean Government would issue two bonds in the amount of $7.2 M US which would be used in collaboration with local NGOs to protect valuable in the country. The local NGOs were committed to conserve and manage tropical forests and use the endowments for continued conservation efforts. This agreement became known as the Tropical Forest Conservation Agreement (TFCA)

A product of this agreement was the creation of the PACT FOUNDATION which was officially established in November 2004. PACT Foundation, along with the Belize Audubon Society, Programme for Belize, and the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment are the beneficiaries of this first debt for nature swap. Through this agreement, these four organizations receive monthly contributions from the Government of Belize rather than the Government of Belize paying part of their debt to the U.S Government loan. The role of the Foundation as per the Tropical Forest Conservation Agreement was to establish an endowment account with the funds received from the Debt for Nature Swap and issue small grants from the interest income earned from this account. Recipients of these small grants would not include the non-government organizations partaking in this agreement.

Through this agreement, funding is provided to registered management organizations of terrestrial protected areas to carry out projects in the areas of general park management- protection, environmental education, equipment, training and research. Under the PACT Foundation grants program, prospective grantees submit proposals in response to “Calls for Proposals” which are advertised at least once a year for grants up to $39,000.00. The PACT Foundation is a separate legal entity from the PACT Trust, but the Trust serves as the administrator of the Foundation’s grants program.

At the second PACT Foundation grant award ceremony which was held in August 2008, a total of three grants were awarded valued at $ 119,927.15. The awardees included: The Aguacaliente Management Team (AMT) which co-manages the Aguacaliente Wildlife Sanctuary in the ; the Rancho Dolores Environmental and Development Company Limited which co-manages the Spanish Creek Wildlife Sanctuary in Rancho Dolores village; and the Rio Blanco Mayan Association (RBMA) which co-manages the Rio Blanco National Park in the villages of Santa Cruz and Santa Elena, Toledo District.

The Grants Program also continued the administration of one ongoing project from the first cycle of grants.

19 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

Table 6: List of PACTFoundation Funded Projects for period April 1st, 08 to March 31st, 09 and one Ongoing Project

Organization Title /Description Duration Status Date Amount Approved “Rio Blanco Mayan “Securing Rio Blanco 1 year Ongoing 22/08/08 $41,000.00 Association (RBMA) National Park with Adequate Resources Objectives: 1. To improve the infrastructure of the Rio Blanco National Park in order to effectively manage the park 2. To establish a monitoring presence at the RBNP 3. To raise public awareness in surrounding community on fire dangers and prevention through community training program 4. To increase visits to the park by 10% through an advertising program

Rancho Dolores “Spanish Creek Wildlife 1 year Ongoing 22/08/08 $49,972.15 Environmental and Sanctuary Maintenance and Development Development Project” Company Limited Objectives: 1. To develop the entrepreneurial spirit among communities and encourage the growth of micro- enterprises in the area of eco-tourism 2. To maintain and improve management of the SCWS 3. To enhance visitors experience and services

Aguacaliente Improving Aguacaliente 1 year Cancelled 22/08/08 $40,955.00 Management Team Management Team (AMT) Technical Capacity for More Effective Management of the Aguacaliente Wildlife Sanctuary”. Objectives: 1. To increase community stakeholder involvement in the protection and preservation of biodiversity in the AWS through implementation of an enhanced community outreach/environmental education program within AMT`s 10 stakeholder communities 2. To enhance AMT`s natural resources management capacity by decreasing illegal actions, increasing law enforcement activities, more effectively maintaining built infrastructure and maintaining ongoing biodiversity monitoring within the AWS through implementation of an enhanced on- the- ground park management program for the area 3. To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of AMT project management through enhancement of the organization`s administrative capacity

Steadfast Tourism and “Improving Management of 1 year Ongoing 06/07/07 $40,959.00 Conservation Billy Barquedier National Association (STACA) Park” Objectives: 1. To develop a 5 year management plan for BBNP, fostering environmental awareness via training session and workshops 2. To decrease illegal activities within the park through increased patrols 3. To improve potable water system within the park and monitoring of the North Stann Creek River to Gra Gra National Park 4. Purchase equipment and supplies to aid in the development of promotional materials for marketing of the park and to enhance visitor`s experience.

20 2008 – 2009 PACT Annual Report

MARFUND The Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund) is a private, non-profit corporation created by four environmental funds from México, Belize, Guatemala, and as a financial mechanism for conservation and adequate resource use in the Mesoamerican Reef Eco-region. The MAR Fund mission is to conserve the resources and natural processes in the MAR region for the benefit of present and future generations, through management, technical, and financial support for priority areas and issues such as , sustainable tourism, sustainable fisheries and institutional strengthening.

Under the MARFund grants program, prospective grantees submit proposals in response to “Call for Proposals” which are advertised as least once a year for grants up to BZE $40,000.00.

The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) serves as the administrator of its Grants Program in Belize and for the 2008-2009 fiscal year also provided co-financing for two approved projects.

In December 2008, a total of two grants were awarded at a total value of $35,530 (MARFund amount). The awardees included: The Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary which is implementing the project entitled, “Tobacco Caye Marine Station: a facility established for regional training and education and the foundation for a sustainable model of community co-management of the South Water Caye Marine Reserve through community outreach and education programs” and the Toledo Institute for Development and the Environment (TIDE) which is implementing the project entitled, “TIDE Community Stewards Program in Protected Areas”.

PACT is also administrating, on behalf of MARFund, a large grant entitled, “Special Enforcement Program for the Southern Complex” which is being implemented by the Southern Environmental Association (SEA) and funded by the Summit Foundation.

Table 7: List of MARFund Projects Approved for period April 1st, 08 to March 31st, 09

Organization Title/ Description Duration Status Date Amount Approved

Monkey Bay Wildlife Tobacco Caye Marine Station: a 1 year Ongoing December $19,850.00 Sanctuary facility established for regional 17th, 2008 (MARFUND) training and education and the foundation for a sustainable $20,850.00 model of community co- (PACT Co- management of the South financing) Water Caye Marine Reserve through community outreach and education programs

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Toledo Institute for TIDE Community Stewards 1 year Ongoing December $15,680.00 Development and the Program in Protected Areas 17th, 2008 (MARFUND) Environment (TIDE) $14,830.00 (PACT)

Southern Special Enforcement Program 1 year Ongoing January $228,000.00 Environmental for the Southern Belize Barrier 26th, 2009 (Summit) Association Reef Complex

PACT and the members of the Indigenous Peoples Conservation Alliance (IPCA) 2009 Annual General Meeting

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Environmental Donations The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) offers small environmental donations of up to $5,000 to organizations, institutions and departments form the private and public sectors that need financial assistance but don’t qualify under any other grant that PACT offers. A total of $40,034.92 was awarded during the fiscal year of 2008/2009.

Table 8: List of Environmental Donations for the period April 1st, 2008 to March 31, 2009

Date Grantee/Organization Purpose Total funds Approved ($) April 4 2008 Jevon Sanker Cover 1 semester expense at the University of $440.00 Belize April 10 2008 Eco Challenge Eco Challenge at $1,000.00 Committee Promoting conservation of the Belize Barrier San Pedro Reef and Enviro. Education.

April 16 2008 Benque Viejo Youth Community clean up campaign $300.00 Environmental Club April 22 2008 UNDP Request for 1st prize donation for $1,200.00 environmental awareness May 27 2008 Village Monkey River Village Fest $500.00 Council June 13 2008 Caye Caulker Lobster Financial assistance for the Lobster Fest 1,500.00 Fest Committee September The National Scout 17th National Coastal and River ways clean up 1,000.00 23 2008 Association of Belize which aims to create awareness of the importance in the preservation and conservation of our coastline and river ways September Escuela Secundaria Educational field trip to the Hol Chan Marine $2,212.00 30 2008 Tecnica Mexico Reserve for ESTM Environmental Awareness Outreach Program October 14, University of Belize Educational trip for UB Tourism class $600.00 2008 October 16, Unity Presbyterian Resource center & kitchen for Unity $4,469.42 2008 School Presbyterian School December Belize Hotel Association European Marketing Initiative 2009 $10,000.00 10,2008 March 13, Galen University Educational Trip to Gales Point Manatee to $800.00 2009 understand the challenges of ecotourism in Belize February 24, San Benito Poite School, National schools trip to Belize Zoo, Museum, $500.00 2009 Toledo Phillip Goldson International Airport, Meteorological Office and Old Belize. February 26, Belize Audubon Society Donation to cover expenses for Earth Day $8,000.00 2009 “Solutions for Climate Change” March 6, National Meteorological Donate a personal computer for first prize $1600.00 2009 Service winner of “ Share Water-Share Opportunities” competition

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March 12, Coastal Zone Hosting of the UNESCO World Heritage $5,000.00 2009 Management Authority Commission (WHC) to Belize to assess & Institute damages done to the Belize Barrier Reef. March 20, Community Activist Facilitate 30 Adventist Youths to conduct an $913.50 2009 educational trip to Lighthouse Reef to participate in Marine Environmental Training and Development with the Audubon Society. Total $40,034.92

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Financial Report In this Fiscal year 2008/2009, PACT’s revenues fell by 2.1% due primarily to a decrease in collections of the PACT conservation fees at the Airport of approximately 6.4%. This drop in Conservation Fees collections from the Airlines is the largest since the end of Fiscal Year 2008; however, the PACT Conservation fees continue to be the primary income for the Trust. PACT increased its Endowment Fund to $3,282,547.55. The interest earned from the investment of the Reserves including the Endowment now accounts for 33% of the Administrative operating cost for the Fiscal Year 2008/2009.

PACT receives its revenues from three main revenue sources: The PACT Conservation Fee (US$3.75) now accounts for the primary source of funds at 46%; The PACT Cruise Ship Commission, which is 20% of the total Cruise Ship Passenger Tax, gives an additional 42% of the total; while Other sources of Revenues, which include interest Earned during the Fiscal Year hold strong at 12% of revenues. The continued rise in Other Sources of Revenue is due to the strategies for investment that PACT continues to implement in order to optimize its returns on investments.

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Audited Financial Report

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Declared Protected Areas of Belize, March 2009

Name National IUCN Legislation Documented Designation Category Area (acre) Caye Caulker Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 100.000 Chiquibul Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 147,810.000 Columbia Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 148,357.000 Deep River Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 78,574 Freshwater Creek Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 28,069.000 Grants Work Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 7,590.000 Machaca Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 3,119.000 Manatee Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 90,425.000 Mango Creek 1 Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 10,523.049 Mango Creek 2 Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 213.000 Mango Creek 3 Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 4,800.000 Mango Creek 4 Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 14,670.000 Maya Mountain Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 41,741.000 Monkey Caye Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 1,460.000 Mountain Ridge Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 106,477.809 Sibun Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 106,192.000 Sittee River Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 93,920.000 Swasey Bladen Forest Reserve VI Forests Act 15,000.000 VI Forests Act 40,375.000 Aguas Turbias National Park II National Park System 8,950.000 Act Bacalar Chico National Park V National Park System 28,148.000 Act Billy Barquedeer National Park II National Park System 1,500.000 Act Chiquibul National Park II National Park System 285,937.000 Act Five Blues Lake National Park II National Park System 4,250.000 Act Gra Gra Lagoon National Park II National Park System 1,197.000 Act Guanacaste National Park II National Park System 51.500 Act Honey Camp National Park II National Park System 7,772.000 Act Laughing Caye National Park II National Park System 10,119.000 Act Mayflower Bocawina National Park II National Park System 7,565.610 Act Monkey Bay National Park II National Park System 2,250.000 Act

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Noj Kaax Meen Eligio National Park II National Park System 14,124.300 Panti Act Paynes Creek National Park II National Park System 37,680.000 Act Hills National Park II National Park System 10,744.000 Act Rio Blanco National Park II National Park System 100.000 Act Sarstoon/Temash National Park II National Park System 41,000.000 Act St. Herman's Blue National Park II National Park System 574.500 Hole Act Bladen Nature Reserve Ia National Park System 99,673.800 Act Burdon Creek Nature Reserve Ia National Park System 5,970.000 Act Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve II National Park System 6,286.000 Act Aguacaliente (Luha) Wildlife Sanctuary IV National Park System 5,492.000 Act Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary IV National Park System 87,318.000 Act Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary IV National Park System 180,500.000 Act Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary IV National Park System 41,297.000 Act Gales Point Wildlife Sanctuary IV National Park System 9,095.000 Act Spanish Creek Wildlife Sanctuary IV National Park System 5,985.000 Act Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary IV National Park System 8,970.130 Act Actun Tunichil Muknal Natural Monument Ia National Park System 455.000 Act Blue Hole Natural Monument III National Park System 1,023.000 Act Half Moon Caye Natural Monument II National Park System 9,700.000 Act Thousand Foot Fall Natural Monument III National Park System 1,290.000 Act Natural Monument III National Park System 4,847.000 Act Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 44.000 Reserve and Antiquities Act Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 22.390 Reserve and Antiquities Act Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 25,000.000 Reserve and Antiquities Act Cerro Maya Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 534.359 Reserve and Antiquities Act Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 1,997.000 Reserve and Antiquities Act Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 958.500

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Reserve and Antiquities Act Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 121.320 Reserve and Antiquities Act Santa Rita Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 3.730 Reserve and Antiquities Act Archaeological II Ancient Monuments 51.600 Reserve and Antiquities Act Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve IV Fisheries Act 15,577.000 Caye Caulker Marine Reserve VI Fisheries Act 9,669.948 Gladden Spit/Silk Marine Reserve IV Fisheries Act 25,600.000 Cayes Glover's Reef Marine Reserve IV Fisheries Act 86,652.097 Hol Chan Marine Reserve II Fisheries Act 4,036.625 Port Honduras Marine Reserve IV Fisheries Act 101,100.000 Marine Reserve IV Fisheries Act 33,401.000 Southwater Cayes Marine Reserve IV Fisheries Act 78,374.000 Caye Bokel, Turneffe Spawning IV Fisheries Act Island Atoll Aggregation Site 1,375.994 Reserves Dog Flea Caye, Spawning IV Fisheries Act Turneffe Island Atoll Aggregation Site 1,407.994 Reserves Emily or Caye Glory Spawning IV Fisheries Act Aggregation Site 1,343.995 Reserves Gladden Spit Spawning IV Fisheries Act Aggregation Site 3,590.386 Reserves Maugre Caye, Spawning IV Fisheries Act Turneffe Atoll Aggregation Site 1,918.224 Reserves Northern Two Cayes, Spawning IV Fisheries Act Lighthouse Reef Aggregation Site 927.313 Reserves Nicholas Caye, Spawning IV Fisheries Act Sapodilla Cayes Aggregation Site 1,663.993 Reserves Northern Glover's Spawning IV Fisheries Act Reef Atoll Aggregation Site 1,799.193 Reserves Rise and Fall Bank, Spawning IV Fisheries Act Sapodilla Cayes Aggregation Site 4,249.583 Reserves Rocky Point, Spawning IV Fisheries Act Ambergris Caye Aggregation Site 1,404.794 Reserves Sandbore, Lighthouse Spawning IV Fisheries Act Reef Atoll Aggregation Site 1,279.995 Reserves

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Seal Caye, Sapodilla Spawning IV Fisheries Act Cayes Aggregation Site 1,599.994 Reserves South Point, Spawning IV Fisheries Act Lighthouse Reef Atoll Aggregation Site 1,343.995 Reserves Aguacate Lagoon Private Reserve IV 283.900 Community Baboon Private Reserve IV 12,980.011 Santuary Golden Stream Private Reserve IV 15,000.000 Corridor Preserve Monkey Bay Wildlife Private Reserve IV 1,473.588 Sanctuary Rio Bravo Private Reserve IV 259,134.152 Conservation & Mgmt Area Runaway Creek Private Reserve IV 7,123.800 Shipstern Nature Private Reserve IV 18,840.381 Reserve TIDE Block 127 Private Reserve IV 11,000.000 Krooman Reserve Public Reserve National Lands Act 57.800 Dolphin Park Public Reserve II National Lands Act 0.688 Seine Bight Village Public Reserve National Lands Act 0.750 Cockroach Bay Public Reserve National Lands Act 19.988 Grants Land, Corozal Public Reserve National Lands Act 0.820 District St. George's Caye Mangrove Reserve National Lands Act 15.000 Bird Caye Bird Sanctuary IV Crown Lands Act 1.288 Doubloon Bank Bird Sanctuary IV Crown Lands Act 3.690 Little Guana Caye Bird Sanctuary IV Crown Lands Act 2.567 Los Salones Bird Sanctuary IV Crown Lands Act 2.928 Man of War Caye Bird Sanctuary IV Crown Lands Act 1.913 Monkey Caye Bird Sanctuary IV Crown Lands Act 1.285 Un-named Bird Sanctuary IV Crown Lands Act 1.066

Note: S.R. & O - Statutory Rule & Order S. I - Statutory Instrument Documented Area may differ from the GIS area Private Reserves are only those recognized by the Forest Department Source: Land Information Centre, Land and Surveys Department

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Promoting Sustainable Management and Development of Belize's Protected Areas

Protected Areas Conservation Trust 3 Mango Street, P.O. Box 443, , Cayo Phone: 822-3637 Fax: 822-3759 45 Email: [email protected] – 2009 PACT Annual Report