Connecting Our Team: Field Trips Bridge the Gap Between Office and Protected Areas
At TIDE, our team of 37 dedicated individuals works tirelessly to protect Belize’s natural resources. While our field staff are often on the front lines, briefly visiting the office for changeovers, and our Education and Outreach team conducts vital boat-to-boat outreach in Port Honduras Marine Reserve (PHMR), it can be challenging for our office team to stay fully connected to the daily realities of our protected areas.
To bridge this gap and foster a deeper understanding of our conservation efforts, we recently organized an enriching field trip. This trip provided a valuable opportunity for our office staff to witness firsthand the impactful projects, successes, and challenges faced by our field staff.
During these visits, field staff from PHMR, Payne’s Creek National Park (PCNP), and TIDE Private Protected Lands (TPPL) shared compelling stories that brought their work to life. What were once numbers on a screen transformed into vivid narratives, showcasing the dedication and passion of our team.
Leonardo Chavarria Jnr. Set the stage for the day of connection by describing his passion for conservation his appreciation of TIDE’s dedicated staff.
Michael Cus presented on the geography of PHMR.
Octario Ack focused on enforcement within PHMR.
John Romero, shared a fascinating piece of history: his participation in the very first patrol conducted when PHMR was established 25 years ago. This personal connection to our organization’s history underscored the enduring commitment of our staff to be involved in the protection of Belize’s rich natural resources.
Federico Caal explained the importance of engaging stakeholder communities upstream of rivers that empty into PHMR.
Anthony Rash educated the team on the various research trips he and TIDE Community Researchers undertake, and the status of corals in PHMR and SCMR.
Edwin Cabrera led our office team through the majestic mangroves of PHMR, explaining their critical role in the marine ecosystem.
His insights highlighted the importance of these intact ecosystems and the ongoing efforts to protect them.
Mr. Budna took the opportunity of a boat ride to offer some wisdom from his four decades of work experience in agriculture, teaching, and conservation across Toledo…
Mario Muschamp guided us through 25 years of PCNP management, showcasing the successful partnerships that have contributed to the replenishment of pine stands and the remarkable recovery of the Yellow-headed parrot population. His vision for the park aligns perfectly with TIDE’s commitment to seeing a Toledo with healthy ecosystems that support biodiversity and communities, whilst contributing to national sustainable development goals.
George Teul highlighted the scope of work at TPPL. There are some 15 parcels of land covering 22,000 acres that are managed for conservation.
They provide vital habitat for Baird’s tapir (Belize’s national animal), five species of cat, and the endangered hicatee turtle. They are also essential in preserving water quality for local communities.
Reymundo Chen shared details of the recent installation of a Motus station at TPPL, emphasizing the potential for this international research project to enhance our understanding of the migratory movements of the Wood Thrush and other birds. This initiative exemplifies TIDE’s dedication to cutting-edge research and collaborative conservation.
These field trips served as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of our work and the importance of collaboration across all departments. By fostering a deeper understanding of our field operations, we strengthen our collective commitment to protecting Belize’s natural heritage.
TIDE staff did not make it out to Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve on this day, which the leaves the possibility of a further trip in the future!