Mapping whale and turtle pathways in the Dominican Republic

Logistical complexities required extensive planning to coordinate stakeholders, secure vessels and permits, and manage safety during rough weather. The designation of Beata Ridge as a transboundary MPA introduced political sensitivities that required careful navigation, and the death in 2022 of Environment Minister Orlando Jorge Mera meant adapting to leadership changes. Tight timeframes for conducting research and analysing environmental DNA samples put substantial pressure on the scientific team, but contingency planning and dedication from all parties ensured the scientific objectives were achieved. 

The implementation phase of the MPAs is about translating legal designation into effective conservation. Limited resources, stakeholder conflicts, and coordination across jurisdictions present significant obstacles. To succeed we aim to engage local communities as stewards, secure sustainable financing, develop capacity through training programmes, and use technology for surveillance. The foundation of our approach to ensuring these new MPAs deliver long-term ecological benefits is collaborative governance. A planned scientific expedition to Navidad Bank, workshops on sustainable financing, and investments in monitoring equipment all support this aim.

The Dominican Republic hosts remarkable marine biodiversity and is a crucial migratory corridor in the Caribbean for humpback whales and four species of turtle. Prior to 2024, the country’s marine protected area network covered 10 per cent of its Exclusive Economic Zone.

Through research expeditions documenting the exceptional biodiversity of Beata Ridge in the Caribbean and Silver and Navidad Banks in the Atlantic, the Dominican Republic dramatically expanded its marine conservation. The expeditions revealed abundant marine life including sharks, and diverse fish and seabirds.  

By actively involving government officials and local stakeholders in the field, the project ensured decision-makers gained a first-hand understanding. The Dominican Republic subsequently designated these biodiversity hotspots as MPAs, strengthening its position as a conservation leader in the region. The initiative has now entered its critical implementation phase.