Special protection for Fafa Island's fragile reef and sea [1]
Wednesday, February 5, 2014 - 15:00. Updated on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 - 15:03.
Fafa island's protected reef area.
Fafa Island Resort yesterday, February 4, celebrated the declaration of about 485 hectares of reef and sea area around Fafa Island as a Special Management Area.
"We at Fafa realize how important our role is in helping to protect these fragile habitats,” stated the resort owner.
Tonga's Minister of Minister of Agriculture, Food, Forests and Fisheries, Hon. Sangster Saulala declared the Fafa Island SMA, to come under the management of the Coastal Community Management Committee, on 4 December 2013.
The special protected status means that only a person or a fishing vessel that has been approved by the Coastal Community Management Committee may enter the area.
The owners and the staff of Fafa Island Resort appreciated the government's declaration, and will play a role in preserving and protecting the unique and abundant marine life of Fafa Island.
“As our many returning guests know, snorkeling is an excellent way of exploring these spectacular environments," the resort owner stated.
In addition to Fafa Island, Nomuka in Ha'apai and Taunga in Vava'u also have Special Management Area, managed by their own Coastal Community Management Committee. The declarations were made under the Fisheries Management Act.