Planners and conservationists are exploring ideas aimed at balancing the need for economic development and the conservation of natural resources. This project strives to step away from the dangers of affectation with respect to ecotourism by putting community ownership and stewardship as the first priority, and tourism as the second. Community-based conservation is a broad concept that strives to incorporate local people into the economic development process. By retaining control of the tourism industry, local people will potentially benefit from tourism by having the means and motivation to support conservation efforts. Working toward community management of natural resources in a conservation context as a foundation for economically viable low-impact tourism will help accomplish two very important goals: economic development and cultural protection, and conservation of natural resources that are rare.

The objective of the project is to preserve the natural resource base and

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rich Biodiversity of the Gales Point area. In so doing, it is expected that the quality of life for residents of Gales Point will be improved. A direct aim of the project is the creation of a manatee reserve to protect the endangered West Indian Manatee (Trichechus Manatus) and to serve as a major eco-tourism attraction for the village. The Manatee Reserve will also assist in efforts to protect other species such as the Hawksbill Turtle and Morlet?s Crocodile.

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