Audubon speaks of lagoon’s importance

While Cabinet has decided on the Krooman Lagoon, the Belize Audubon Society has also agreed with the ecological importance of it as a reserve for species. But more importantly, the Belize Audubon Society is concerned of how it functions as a catchment area after the rains. Amanda Burgos Acosta, Advocacy Program Manager for BAS, says that drainage is the most important aspect of that particular area in Collet.

Amanda Burgos Acosta, Advocacy Program Manager, BAS
“It is one of the last mangrove ecosystems in that region; it’s still in tact and it’s still a large area. In addition, it is important for drainage in that area and it is a catchment for water from that area.”

Jose Sanchez
“Why is it important to keep it the way it is?”

Amanda Burgos Acosta
“Well, the importance lies in the drainage capacity back there in the Fabers Road and that extension will have the need for where this water will end up. I think it’s more also a matter of planning for drainage and how we will reroute all of that water. We have to remember Belize was primarily swamp so as we fill the water doesn’t have anywhere to go. So drainage I think is the most important issue that comes out of this whole situation. Belize City is primarily filled with clay and clay has very poor porosity. In other words, the water doesn’t seep into it, it would rush quickly. So you’re talking parts of the Western Highway, Fabers Road and basically, I don’t know—we would have to quantify how much water it truly holds—and then the whole area, you’re talking some serious water rising in that area.”