“Cozumel National Park Shuts 5 Reefs for Coral Recovery”

Efforts to restore the coral reefs within Cozumel Reefs National Park are ongoing. While exact progress reports are not yet available, the implemented recovery program has shown promising signs, particularly in the increased presence of certain reef species. As a result, the National Commission for Protected Natural Areas (Conanp) has decided to continue these recovery efforts and limit visitor access during certain periods.

Conanp has announced plans to temporarily close five of the park's most popular reefs during August and September. The specific reefs that will be closed include:

• Colombia Reef (Shallow)
• Colombia Reef (Intermediate)
• Colombia Reef (Deep)
• Palancar Caves
• Palancar Bricks

Blanca Quiroga, the head of Conanp on the island, explained that these intermittent closures are believed to be beneficial for the coral's recovery. The closures are strategically implemented throughout the year to minimize the impact of visitors on specific reefs.

The decision has been well received by local tourist service operators, who understand the importance of these periods of rest for the reefs. The closures also align with the breeding season of certain coral organisms, which occurs during August and September. This provides a peaceful environment and reduces stress on the corals, a much-needed respite especially in the wake of the white coral syndrome in 2018 and coral bleaching in 2019.