Government
Marine spatial planning update
Dana Malcolm
Staff Writer
#TurksandCaicos, March 15, 2023 – Marine stakeholders in the TCI are willing to collaborate with the government for the protection of the island’s waters based on recent DECR meetings. Through the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), the government recently held a Marine Spatial Planning workshop to educate residents about upcoming changes meant to protect the country’s waters. 
Amy Avenant, the DECR’s Environmental Outreach Coordinator told Magnetic Media the government’s efforts were fruitful.
“We had a good turnout from all communities across the islands.” She said but explained that more needed to be done.
“The turnout was good but there are still lots of stakeholders to reach, and we will be following up with a survey to reach those who were unable to attend. There will also be further engagement throughout this year,” she said.
The push for marine special planning comes as billions of dollars in investments are announced for the Turks and Caicos’ tourism industry, and on the heels of the country joining the Blue Belt program which demands significant marine protection. Avenant says the local stakeholders are very much on board with the plans.
“Due to the increase in marine users in TCI, stakeholders were receptive to the idea of Marine Spatial Planning
MSP is supposed to use information from stakeholders of the marine industry to decide on the most sustainable and safest ways to use an area’s marine assets. Meetings were held in Providenciales, Grand Turk, South, North, and Middle Caicos.
When implemented MSP will cover areas across tourism, energy and conservation including Jet Ski operational zones, Tiki bar zones, boat and shipping lanes, renewable energy opportunities Blue Carbon and general marine zoning issues.
