Manatee Week focuses on public education

Belize’s manatees haven’t had a good day in a while with an increase in deaths from boat blades. But this week is all theirs. Manatee Week opened this morning at the Holy Redeemer Parish Hall, and aims to educate everyone about this precious resource through competitions and informational displays.

Nicole Auil of the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute is actively trying to protect these gentle water mammals. She understands how crucial it is for the general public to get involved.

Nicole Auil, Manatee Researcher

“Working on research is more than just staying in your office and flying and counting manatees, and doing all the analysis on dead manatees, sea grass and whatever. It involves the cooperation of the public because nothing can be done without the help of the public.”

While people might feel like all they can do is report illegal activity, Auil says they can get to know the manatee in order to help protect it. A new project promises that learning will be more than just making posters and taking notes in class.

Nicole Auil

“We’re going to create a syllabus and teach the guides how to do proper guiding: how to enter a manatee area, how to exit, what to teach their tourists. They’ll get their certification and so that’s something new that they’re doing.”

But old issues also continue like people swimming with manatees and pollution, both areas the public can assist in solving. The organizers are hoping everyone will to get to know the manatees, bringing to life the week’s theme, “If you know us, you will love and protect us.” Janelle Chanona for News Five.

Information, models and games about the manatee will be on display in Belize City, Gales Point, Dangriga, San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Placencia, Corozal and Punta Gorda. The deadline for newspaper competition entries is Wednesday while the other competitions will be drawn on Friday. If you would like to report illegal activity or a stranding, please call 0-800-MANATEE.