Portland Bight Protected Area

Portland Bight Protected Area is a conservation zone in southern Jamaica that includes mangrove coastlines, seagrass meadows, limestone forests, and extensive coral reef systems. The region spans roughly 1,880 square kilometers with varied habitats supporting different marine and land species.

The zone was designated for protection in 1999 to preserve the region's biodiversity. In 2013, proposals emerged to build a transportation hub on Goat Islands within this area, triggering concerns about ecological impacts.

Fishing families living here practice methods passed down through generations while adjusting to conservation rules that shape their daily work. This balance between tradition and environmental protection is visible throughout the region.

The area is managed by the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation, which oversees different zones with varying access rules. Visitors should check current access regulations and local conditions before planning a visit.

The zone contains about 60 documented caves that provide habitat for specialized animal and plant species. These underground formations are ecologically important and attract researchers and cave explorers interested in subterranean ecosystems.