SAN PEDRO, Belize (25 Nov 2000) -- Scientists at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve have completed a general assessment of the barrier reef and have concluded that overall damage from Hurricane Keith was minimal. Miguel Alamilla, manager of the marine reserve, said that his team found new colonies of stag horn coral in areas that were obliterated by Hurricane Mitch two years ago. Reef areas that are most popular with divers were found to be in excellent condition and visibility has almost returned to normal. Shallow areas that received the full impact of the hurricane were hardest hit including the world heritage site at Bacalar Chico National Park where sand erosion and damage to soft corals was severe. "The reef looks great, a lot better than it did after Hurricane Mitch," Alamilla said. While damage below the ocean surface was minimal, the storm destroyed many buildings including structures housing the offices of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. | | Hurricane Keith damaged many buildings in Belize Repairs are being completed with grants from the World Wildlife Fund and the US-based Oak Foundation. © CDNN - CYBER DIVER NEWS NETWORK |
