Hillsborough, Carriacou, July 21st, 2010- Although it’s just about one week before Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas officially declares the Sandy Island/Oyster Bed area a marine protected area (MPA), yachts are anchoring in the Sandy Island area and utilising the moorings for anchorage.
The installation of the moorings, which is about 50 percent complete, is being undertaken by personnel from Lumba Dive Shop headed by Diane Martino and Richard LaFlemme.
Previously, yachts have been lowering their anchors directly onto the seabed, causing significant damage to the reefs.
Sandy Island, after suffering damage during the passage of Hurricane Lenny in 1999 and Hurricane Ivan in 2004, has regained its lush vegetation through the efforts of many organisations and local residents. The Oyster Bed in Tyrell Bay has provided secure shelter for boats during the hurricane season.
The Sandy island/Oyster Bed MPA declaration takes place on Regatta Saturday, July 31. It will be witnessed by hundreds of locals and visitors who will be on the island for the historic occasion and to participate in the annual Carriacou Regatta.
