Improving fee collection to support Marine Managed Areas in Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Abstract

Marine Managed Areas (MMAs) in the Caribbean are important for eco-tourism revenue generation, as well as many cultural and economic benefits derived from marine ecosystems (ecosystem services). MMAs in Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines are underfunded, understaffed, and therefore suffer from inadequate law enforcement and conservation management. Our team researched current fees, willingness to pay studies, and the value of ecosystem services to create presentations and policy briefs informing policy-makers about opportunities to increase MMA fees. Increasing fees will not only generate more income for the countries, but will also optimize opportunities for better management, training, and infrastructure in these important areas.