Why Patrolling Matters
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are one of the most powerful tools we have to protect coral reefs, but only if they are effectively managed and enforced. Without regular surveillance and enforcement, illegal fishing, unregulated tourism, and other harmful activities threaten the biodiversity these MPAs are designed to protect.
In Cozumel, famously known for great scuba diving, breathtaking coral reefs, and endangered marine species, the stakes are especially high. The island’s economy depends heavily on eco-tourism and healthy fisheries, making it essential to keep the surrounding waters teeming with life. But with limited resources and an expansive area to cover—over 11,000 km²—local enforcement faces real challenges in protecting the reefs from threats.
A United Effort in Cozumel
At CORAL, we believe in solutions powered by partnership. That’s why we’re proud to support the Cozumel Community Patrolling Committee, a community-based organization working alongside Mexico’s National Commission on Protected Areas (CONANP), to strengthen local patrols and build long-term reef resilience.
Last year, CORAL awarded a grant to the Cozumel Community Patrolling Committee to expand and improve their patrolling program. These funds help cover essential expenses like fuel, equipment, and coordination, enabling the team to monitor more territory, more often. In the next year, we plan to work together with the Committee, funding their operational time, offering technical assistance and training to build up their skills and capacities in the field, and processing data gathered.
Impact Through Alliance
This grant is part of a larger story, one of collective action. The Community Patrolling Committee, CONANP, and CORAL each play a vital role in the alliance that protects Cozumel’s MPA. By working together, we’re not just enforcing rules—we’re building community trust, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring local people can continue to depend on the ocean for generations to come.
“As members of the community, we are deeply invested in protecting our reefs,” says Julio Bacelis, Chair of the Committee. “This support from CORAL strengthens our alliance and gives us the tools to defend what matters most—for us and for future generations.”
The Hidden Cost of Protection
Many people assume governments fully fund protected area enforcement. The reality? They do not. Across the world, and in Cozumel, it’s the communities themselves who are stepping up to manage and protect their marine resources. But, they can’t do it alone.
Effective patrolling requires much more than just boats and staff. It takes fuel, maintenance, training, safety gear, and communications equipment. It takes access to science and data to understand what’s happening below the surface. And increasingly, it takes technology, like GPS mapping and data collection tools, to detect threats, respond in real time, and adapt enforcement strategies as conditions change.
CORAL’s funding helps fill these critical gaps. But the need is ongoing, and continued investment is essential to ensure communities can keep these protections strong.
A Model for Well-Managed MPAs
Well-managed MPAs depend on strong local leadership, the right resources, and consistent collaboration. Cozumel’s alliance is demonstrating just how powerful this model can be. With each patrol, we’re not just enforcing protections, we’re restoring balance, preventing damage, and preserving one of the Caribbean’s most treasured ecosystems.
This is what our alliance looks like in action: local voices, local leadership, global support.
Stay Connected
Throughout our Voices of Our Alliance campaign, we’re sharing the stories of people and partnerships making a difference for coral reefs around the world. Follow along to hear more from the communities that are protecting what they love—and from the broader alliance working to ensure reefs survive for generations to come.
