In an effort to promote ecotourism, marine conservation, and sustainable economic development, the government of Colima announced the creation of Colima’s first Artificial Reef System (SAAC). This project will take place in the waters of Santiago Bay, off the beaches of Manzanillo, and involves the controlled sinking of two former vessels donated by the Ministry of the Navy: the ocean patrol vessel Baranda and the tugboat Cora.
Both vessels have completed their service life and are currently undergoing a meticulous cleaning and decontamination process, with the highest environmental standards, and the goal of being submerged next November. Once on the seabed, these structures will serve as a base for the formation of new marine habitats, promoting the regeneration of life: corals, fish, mollusks, and other species will find a new home here.
This innovative initiative includes the creation of an underwater museum with themed sculptures and naval artifacts.
In addition to an environmental education program aimed at children, the SAAC will become a conservation space with a cultural and educational appeal.
The SAAC was inspired by the successful Sonoran Artificial Reef System (SAAS) and is poised to be the second artificial reef system with a tourism focus in Latin America, which will have benefits that go beyond the environment. A positive impact on the local economy is expected through increased visitor overnight stays, demand for tourism services such as hotels, diving, gastronomy, and maritime transportation, as well as a boost to marine scientific research.
It should be noted that this project is aligned with the 2021-2027 State Development Plan and represents a joint effort by the Undersecretariat of Tourism of the State of Colima, the Secretariat of the Navy, the Institute for the Environment and Sustainable Development of Colima, and the City Council of Manzanillo.
With the inauguration of the SAAC, Manzanillo will strengthen its tourism offering beyond its famous beaches and port life.
From diving on artificial reefs to discovering and appreciating underwater sculptures, visitors will have one more reason to admire the region’s natural and cultural riches.
Source: milenio
