2009 - 2010
ANNUAL REPORT
Annual Report 2009 - 2010 Published by: The Protected Areas Conservation Trust Design and Layout - Protected Areas Conservation Trust, Belize. Printed in Belize, Central America Printer: BRC Printing Ltd.
PHOTOS Copyright Š 2010, The Protected Areas Conservation Trust Front Cover Left: Child from community at Rio Blanco National Park Middle: Rio Blanco National Park Right: Scholarship Recipients 2009 Back Cover Left: Lemonal Village Middle Top: National Animal of Belize - Tapir Middle Bottom: National Plant of Belize - Black Orchid Right: Harpy Eagle Š 2010, The Protected Areas Conservation Trust, Belize.
ANNUAL REPORT 2009 - 2010
Table of Contents Mission,Vision and Guiding Principles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i Organizational Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i Board of Directors and Advisory Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii PACT Staff. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii Message from the Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv Message from the Chair of the Board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .v Message from the Executive Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi What is PACT?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Grants Program me. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Grants Application, Selection and Approval Process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Large Grants Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Small Grants Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Support Grants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Capacity Building Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 PACT Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 MAR Fund. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Environmental Donations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 16 Financial Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Audited Financial Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 This year’s featured Protected Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Protected Areas List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Protected Areas Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Vision
PACT is a strategic partner in the funding, management, and sustainable development of Belize’s natural and cultural resources for the benefit of Belizeans and the global community.
Mission
To contribute to the sustainable management and development of Belize’s natural and cultural heritage by providing effective funding support to protected areas.
Guiding Principles
• Equity, transparency, accountability, and good governance are hallmarks of PACT • The success of PACT as a National Trust Fund is dependent on its ability to continuously grow the fund • Being responsive to protected areas and constituents’ needs is a permanent campaign of PACT • Networking and engagement with constituents on a local, national and global scale is indispensable for PACT to deliver its mission • PACT continuously sets new standards of efficiency in grant-making and delivery • Effective communications is a key function of the day to day operations of PACT
PACT Organizational Chart Advisory Council
Board of Directors Executive Director
Standing Committees
Executive Assistant
Associate Director - Finance
Research and Information Officer
Accountant Senior Accounts Clerk Project Accounts Clerk
Associate Director Grants
Administrative Officer Administrative Assistant Office Assistant/ Driver
Grants Program Clerk
Senior Grants Officer National Portfolio
Grants Officer Grants Officer Northern Portfolio Southern Portfolio
Grants Officer Capacity Building
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The Board
The Advisory Council
Mrs. Beverly Castillo Chair Ministry of Natural Resources & the Environment
Mr. James Azueta Chair Natural Resources Management Background
Mr. David Craig Vice Chair Belize Audubon Society
Mr. Silvano Cobb Belize Fishermen Cooperative Association
Mrs. Zita Perez Ministry of Finance Mrs.Tracy Panton Belize Tourism Board Ms. Candy Gonzalez J.D. Belize Alliance of Conservation Non-Government Organization Mrs. Jessie Young Community Based Organization Dr. John Morris Institute of Archaeology Ms. Denise OcKey Belize National Tour Operators Association Mr. Peter Tonti Belize Tourism Industry Association Mr. Edilberto Romero Finance Expert
Mr. Brian Woodye Institute of Archaeology Department Mr. Martin Alegria Ministry of Natural Resources & the Environment Ms. Laura Esquivel Belize Tourism Board Dr. Phillip Morgan University of Belize Mr. Michael Singh Ministry of Tourism Mr. Emil Mena Finance Expert Ms. Janet Gibson Natural Resource Management Expert Dr.Vincent Gillett Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute
PACT Board, Current
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PACT Staff
Ms. Sharon Ramclam Executive Director
Ms. Christine Valerio Grants Officer - Southern Portfolio
Mr. Kerry Belisle Associate Director - Finance
Mrs. Joyce Tun Grants Officer - Northern Portfolio
Ms. Natalie Rosado Associate Director - Grants
Mr. Darrel Audinette Grants Officer - Capacity Building Program
Mrs. Nayari Diaz Senior Grants Officer - National Portfolio
Mr. Michael Pipersburgh Project Accounts Clerk
Ms. Angela Usher Accountant
Ms.Vanessia Burke Executive Assistant
Mrs. Modesta Cal Administrative Officer
Ms. Lorena Ramirez Grants Program Clerk
Ms. Deidra Smith Research and Information Officer
Ms. Farrah Tingling Administrative Assistant
Mr. Mark Zelaya Senior Accounts Clerk
Mr. Kevin Maddison Office Assistant/Driver PACT Staff, Current
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Message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment I am pleased to present the Protected Areas Conservation Trust’s (PACT) 2009-2010 Annual Report. This year marked another productive year for PACT as it continues to successfully financially support the sustainable management and development of protected areas in Belize. PACT’s success to date has been a collaborative effort and is achieved with the support of our stakeholders and partners in conservation and development. Specifically, I would like to acknowledge the Government of Belize, communities, non-government organizations, tourism partners, other funding organizations and the private sector for their continued commitment, vision and belief in the idea of the PACT. Today, the PACT serves as a model that demonstrates that public and private sector interests can coexist for the continued protection of our environment. Even today, the idea of a PACT is still novel in many parts of the world. Indeed, we have morphed from just a concept in 1991 into a viable and sustainable institution with proven capacity to direct financial resources towards the protection and conservation of Belize’s abundant natural resources. Despite our successes, PACT realizes that Belize’s extensive protected areas system, with its diverse and complex management regimes and challenges require a PACT that is dynamic, creative, innovative and responsive to the needs of the stakeholders and the protected areas system. Thus, the PACT is now at an important point in its evolution where it must now assess its capacity as an institution to “promote the sustainable management of Belize’s Protected Areas” by ensuring that its programs and processes remain efficient, effective and relevant. Such an undertaking will require a comprehensive institutional assessment that will set the stage for strategic transformation of the PACT into the preeminent sustainable financing mechanism for conservation in Belize. Simultaneously, PACT will also commence the preparation of its third strategic plan to guide the institution into 2016. I sincerely hope that you will remain active partners and supporters of the PACT. I encourage you to join me, the PACT staff and Board as we embrace this strategic repositioning of the PACT and boldly move forward.
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Honorable Gaspar Vega Deputy Prime Minister
Message from the Chairperson of the Board of Directors On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to share our 2009-2010 annual report. This fiscal year saw the culmination of a process of self-assessment and evaluation of the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) as we conducted our institutional assessment and development of our strategic plan 2011-2016.This exercise yielded strategic recommendations to improve the governance and operations of the PACT which will ensure that the organization is more effective and efficient in carrying out its mandate. The process of organizational restructuring has now commenced and we are excited to have the opportunity to engage our stakeholders in this process. Notwithstanding the great task of restructuring, and with the new strategic plan charting the way forward, the PACT continued its service to our stakeholders and invested a total of over $2.3 million in project and capacity building grants. We continued the administration of the PACT Foundation, MARFund, and Oak Foundation grants, strengthening our partnerships and networks. We also continued our support to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in the implementation of the National Protected Areas Policy and System Plan (NPAPSP) ensuring that this national effort continues to guide our investments. As we take on this new chapter in our evolution, the PACT is now poised to propel itself into a more effective and meaningful partner in Belize’s development. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I wish to express our gratitude to all our stakeholders for your support throughout the year and invite you to embark with us on this new journey.
Beverly Castillo (Mrs.) Chairperson
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Message from the Executive Director
Since its establishment 13 years ago, the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) has invested some $17 million in grant funding that has supported over 200 projects to various non-government organizations, including community-based grass roots organizations and government agencies. All these projects focus on conserving our natural heritage, and span the entire length and breadth of this beautiful country. PACT currently maintains an endowment that now stands at $3.6 million, and an additional $1.1 million in grants reserves. With 94 declared protected areas in the country, the financial resources required to sustain them is considerable and remain a serious challenge for the PACT. Currently, PACT’s grants program has evolved to include 10 different grant types ranging from donations of $500 to large grants of up to $400,000. PACT is at a period of determining our institutional capacity to ensure best implementation of our programs. Once this process is complete, PACT will be prepared to respond to the rapidly evolving challenges that constantly arise in protected areas financing and management. PACT has a proven track record of which it is extremely proud. I take this opportunity to thank our partners in conservation, our stakeholders, communities, the private sector, and the Government of Belize without which PACT simply would not exist. Today, the institution is a testament that divergent interests can come together, as they must, to find sustainable mechanisms to enable conservation to happen. However, I recognize that there is ample room for improvement of the PACT; hence this undertaking. I sincerely hope that we all can continue to be proud of Our National Trust – A Home Grown Fund. As we move ahead in these economically challenging times, we must continue to forge strategic partnerships and explore innovative and creative mechanism to increase the ability of the PACT to diversify its funding base.
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Sharon Ramclam Executive Director
What is PACT? The Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) was established in 1996 as Belize’s national conservation Trust Fund. It was legally established as a statutory body after several years of consultations and meetings with various non-governmental organizations, government departments, private sector and international conservation organizations.
Source of Funding Revenue is derived from three main sources: 1.A conservation fee of BZ $7.50 (US $3.75) per visitor paid upon departure. 2. Twenty percent (20%) commission from Cruise Ship head tax. 3. Investments and donations from agencies, corporations and interested individuals. These constitute the primary source of funding for the Trust Fund. The revenue derived is invested back into the protected areas through PACT’s Grants Programme.
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Grants Programme The purpose of the PACT’s Grants Programme is to support protected areas projects through four funding areas: • Protected Areas Management and Conservation • Protected Areas Promotion and Development • Environmental Education and Awareness • Community Development around Protected Areas This programme has evolved over time to include small, large and capacity building grants. PACT offers grants on a competitive basis. Recipients of Trust monies include registered organizations of protected areas, non-governmental organizations (NGO’s), community based organizations (CBO’s), and governmental agencies which are involved in the conservation and management—for sustainable use—of Belize’s natural resources.
Grants Application, Selection and Approval Process All project applications submitted to PACT undergo three levels of screening: an eligibility screening process by PACT’s Internal Screening Committee (ISC), a technical evaluation by the Advisory Council (AC) and a final review by PACT’s Board of Directors (BoD) who then makes the final decision on all grants. The first screening process by the ISC ensures the completeness of the application and general evaluation of the application. The Advisory Council then focuses on the technical merits, feasibility and relevance of the application to PACT’s mission, strategic plan, National Protected Areas Policy and Systems Plan (NPAPSP) and any other relevant policy. Lastly, projects recommended by the AC are presented to the BoD for final consideration.
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Grants Application, Selection and Approval Process
Grant Agreement
Application Submission
1st Disbursement
Eligible Organization
Project Implementation
Reporting
Completeness and eligibility by Project Officers
Proposal Approved
Technical evaluation by Advisory Council
Board Evaluation Monitoring and Evaluation
Project Completion
Site Visits/ Meetings
Subsequent Disbursement
Application and Approval
Grant management
Call for proposal
External Evaluation
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Large Grants The Large Grants Program exists to offer well established and eligible organizations and agencies, financial support to implement large, multi-year projects that pursue PACT’s mission, goals and priorities. The program seeks to implement the National Protected Areas Policy and System Plan. Large Grants should leverage PACT funds for national and/or regional impact. Grants should range between $100,001 and $400,000 and must be implemented within a period of two years. PACT awarded a new large grant valued at $236,189.10 to the Association of Protected Areas Management Organization (APAMO) in support of capacity building for improved protected areas management in Belize. In addition, PACT continues to administer ongoing large grants for the Belize Audubon Society (BAS), University of Belize (UB), Forest Department and the Fisheries Department as outlined below. Two projects were successfully closed this year. The major accomplishments for SATIIM’s project include the staffing of entrance stations, completion of over 26 inter-institutional patrols, establishment and implementation of a monitoring and evaluation system, environmental education sessions at village schools and an environmental school fair. Table 1. List of Ongoing and New Large Grants Organization
Title/ Description
Duration
Forest Department
Improving protected areas management in Belize through the institutional strengthening of the biodiversity programme of the Forest Department
6 years and 2 months
Status 6th year
Date Approved Feb.10.2004
Objectives 1. Provide strategic direction and guidance to the Forest Department’s programmes and sub-programmes 2. Provide direction for the effective administration and development of protected areas 3. Strengthen and revitalize the biodiversity management program of the Forest Department
Chiquibul National Park
Friends for Conservation and Development
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Amount Approved $889,989.98
Table 1. List of Ongoing and New Large Grants Organization Belize Audubon Society (BAS)
Title/ Description Towards the sustainability of BAS managed protected areas
Duration 2 years
Status 1st year
Date Approved Apr.8.2009
Amount Approved $455,501.55
Objectives 1. To strengthen the central operational center within the Marine Reserve Network and stakeholders 2. To decrease illegal activities and promote safety at the marine reserves, co-management partners and operation center. 3. To increase public awareness on marine protected areas of Belize 4. To minimize user conflicts and abolish anchor damage in the protected marine areas and highly visited recreation areas 5. Enhancement of staff capacity in monitoring, research, enforcement, environmental education and public relations University of Belize (UB)
Developing the University of Belize’s Natural Resource Management (NRM) Program
4 years and 4 months
4th year
Jan.1.2006
$825,000.00
1. To build capacity within the NRM Program which includes acquisition of equipment, computers, laboratories and transportation necessary to support teaching and project activities 2. To develop the UB campus and associated properties at middle long caye, hunting caye and calabash caye to provide quality education programs to both national and international students and to manage and conserve critical ecosystems and natural resources 3. To increase awareness, knowledge and support for the NRM Program through public awareness and promotional activities 4. To establish endowed chairs in Marine/Coastal Resource Management and Terrestrial/ Watershed Resource Management 5. To develop and promote research and projects that are of national priority and need in collaboration with governmental agencies, national organizations and communities involved in natural resource management Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD)
Sustainable management programme for the core conservation of the Chiquibul Maya Mountain key biodiversity area in Belize
3 years and 8 months
3rd year
Oct.6. 2006
$839,353.20
Aug.15.2007
$262,500.00
Objectives 1. To establish an administrative structure for the Chiquibul National Park 2. To develop and institute a cooperation building and public awareness strategy 3. To establish a viable and integrated sustainable management program 4. Reduce illegal incursions in the Chiquibul/ Maya Mountains key Biodiversity area Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM)
Implementation of the management plan for the Sarstoon Temash National Park
2 years and 1 month
Completed
Objectives 1. To foster community cooperation and Sarstoon Temash regional cohesion 2. To develop a mechanism for identifying and protecting species at risk 3. To ensure all activities inside the national park do not impair the ecological integrity of the area Fisheries Department
Towards the sustainability of the Marine Reserve Network (MRN) in Belize
2 years
2nd year
Mar.31.2009
$455,501.55
Objectives 1. To strengthen the central operational center within the Marine Reserve Network and stakeholders 2. To decrease illegal activities and promote safety at the marine reserves, co-management partners and operation center 3. To increase public awareness on marine protected areas of Belize 4. To minimize user conflicts and abolish anchor damage in the protected marine areas and highly visited marine recreation areas standardized system for communication between the Fisheries Department, Marine Reserves and co-management partners 5. Enhance staff capacity in monitoring, research, enforcement, environmental education and public relations Association of Protected Area Management Organization (APAMO)
Support for capacity building for improved protected areas management in Belize
1 year and 3 months
1st year
Feb.19.2010
$236,189.10
Objectives 1. Increase the institutional capacity of at least 4 conservation CBO’s in four key governance and management areas. 2. Improve the management and conservation of 4 protected areas through increased capacity of at least 4 CBO’s Total
$3,964,035.40
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Small Grants Established in 1997, the Small Grants Program is the first grant program at PACT and provides financial support primarily to Community Based Organizations for protected areas management and conservation. Prospective grantees submit proposals in response to “Call for Proposals,” which are advertised at least once a year. Small Grants must be completed within one year and must be in the range of $10,001 to $100,000. For this fiscal year (2009-2010), PACT awarded eight (8) small grants at a total value of $689,154. The grantees are detailed in the table below. BFCA’s project for the development of their strategic plan was successfully completed. Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute’s project for the sustainable development of the Goff’s Caye Special Management Area (GCSMA) is near completion with 85 percent of the project already implemented.
Alternative Livelihood Solutions Sarteneja Fishermen Association
Open Day - Goff ’s Caye
Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute
Table 2. List of Small Grants for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization Belize Fishermen Cooperative Association (BFCA)
Title/ Description Development of a strategic plan for the BFCA to allow them to participate fully in the resource management process
Duration 11 months
Objectives 1. Develop an appropriate and implementable strategic plan for the BFCA 2. Involve industry stakeholders in the development of the strategic plan
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Status Completed
Date Approved Apr.1.2009
Amount Approved $43,200.00
Table 2. List of Small Grants for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute
Title/ Description The Sustainable development of the Goff’s Caye Special Management Area (GCSMA)
Duration 12 months
Status Completed
Date Approved Apr.1.2009
Amount Approved $103,000.00
Objectives 1. Build capacity to mitigate impact from tourist visits and severe weather events 2. Promote the sustainable use of Goff’s and other Cayes in the GCMA, including the resources and unique surrounding habitats 3. Monitor the user fee system implemented for the Goff’s Caye management area and expand fee collection system 4. Build support to enhance the public awareness program for the sustainable use of the GCMA Shipstern Nature Reserve (SNR)
Strengthening of SNR, a private protected area, as a critical component of the national protected areas system
10 months
Ongoing
Dec.7.2009
$83,262.00
Objectives 1. Increase conservation effectiveness through the development of a 5 year management plan 2. Establish the Shipstern Nature Reserve Advisory Committee to provide input towards increased effectiveness 3. Strengthen the institution,through strategic planning, to provide clear vision, mission and strategies 4. Strengthened through the purchase of equipment and training to enable it to effectively communicate with its stakeholders Sarteneja Fishermen Association (SFA)
Developing long term alternative livelihood solutions for fishermen of Sarteneja
12 months
Ongoing
Dec.7.2009
$102,992.00
Objectives 1. Fifty two SFA members (12 participant groups) - reduce their dependence on the marine resources through the establishment of pig rearing facilities, with relevant skills training 2. SFA will have increased institutional capacity for providing viable, long term alternative livelihood opportunities for its members Ca’ac Alenel Car Sa Nima
Developing and restoring buffer zones along the Rio Grande
10 months
Ongoing
Dec.7.2009
$48,000.00
Objectives 1. Diminish the likelihood of flooding and increase the value of the riverbanks 2. Reinforce the importance of the 66ft buffer zone, promoting tourism in and around San Miguel Village Wafagua Nautical Safety Institute (WNSI)
Pristine sea project
12 months
Ongoing
Dec.7.2009
$102,700.00
Objectives 1. Reduce incidents of marine pollution and seabed damage through education on safe and responsible boating and seamanship and waste disposal and management 2. Provide users of marine resources with ways to reduce pollution and negative impacts 3. Help to maintain Belize`s marine environment in a healthy condition Trial Farm Village Council
Otro Benque/Trial Farm reforestation project and recreational park uplifting
19 months
Ongoing
Dec.7.2009
$103,000.00
Objectives 1. Improve existing park infrastructure to increase appeal and utility for area residents and students 2. Re-greening of the Otro Benque Park 3. Reforest the riparian portion of the New River adjacent to the Otro Benque Park to minimize flooding, erosion and sedimentation into the New River System 4. Promote environmental awareness of the roles and importance of riparian forests among area residents and students Green Reef
A sport fish conservation plan for Belize
11 months
Ongoing
Dec.7.2009
$103,000.00
Objectives 1. Reduce habitat conservation in critical sites 2. Identify migratory destinations of the three sport fishes 3. Develop and implement public education campaign Total
$689,154.00
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Support Grants Through its Support Grants Program, PACT provides financial assistance to CBO’s and smaller, less established organizations and associations and groups, to develop and implement short term projects, activities or initiatives. These projects should contribute to the betterment of the environment and natural resources management. Maximum funding per contribution is $10,000 and projects must be for a period of six months or less. This year PACT awarded twenty two (22) support grants as presented in the table below.
Mayflower Bocawina National Park Friends of Mayflower Bocawina National Park
Summer Camp
Toledo Institute for Development and Environment
Scout’s Recycling Project The Scouts Association of Belize
Table 3. List of Support Grants Approved for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization
Title/ Description
Duration
Status
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Sea Turtle Expo 2009
3 months
Completed
Apr.22.2009
$7,500.00
Friends of Mayflower Bocawina National Park
Replace the existing bridge crossing the Silk Grass leading to the Antelope Trail Water Fall
4 months
Completed
Apr.27.2009
$10,000.00
Association of Protected Area Management Organizations (APAMO)
Implementation of a comprehensive assessment of the status of our protected areas
12 months
Ongoing
Apr.28.2009
$10,000.00
ECO-MAR
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Table 3. List of Support Grants Approved for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization
Title/ Description
Duration
Status
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE)
TIDE’s Summer Camp
1 month
Completed
May.6.2009
$6,307.00
Community Baboon Sanctuary Women’s Conservation Group (CBSWCG)
To conduct an Audit of the CBSWCG account and Capacity Building for CBSWCG members
7 months
Completed
May.18.2009
$5,870.00
Friends of Mayflower Bocawina National Park
Friends of Mayflower Bocawina National Park wardens to attend a Police Constable training
10 days
Completed
Jul.1.2009
The Scouts Association of Belize
Scouts - Recycling Project in Belize
10 months
Ongoing
Jul.15.2009
$9,976.00
Friends of Mayflower Bocawina National Park
Antelope Trail re-diversion following Earthquake damages
1 month
Completed
Jul.15.2009
$3,500.00
Bamboo Skills Training Camp
3 months
Completed
Aug.17.2009
$410.00
Airing of a video on protected areas in Belize on Channel 5, Plus TV, and Love TV
2 months
Completed
Aug.17.2009
$9,979.00
Ya’axche Conservation Trust (YCT)
Support to YCT Scholarship Program
12 months
Ongoing
Aug.25.2009
$5,000.00
Aguacate R.C. School
Community Clean-up Project
8 months
Ongoing
Oct.5.2009
$1,955.00
Southern Environmental Association (SEA)
Development of a Comprehensive Financial Plan for SEA
3 months
Completed
Oct.5.2009
$20,000.00
YCT
The importance of Steep slope, riparian and mangrove forests - A national awareness campaign
8 months
Ongoing
Oct.5.2009
$10,000.00
Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
Install a state of the art solar power electrical supply system at Tobacco Caye Marine Research Station
1 month
Completed
Dec.1.2009
$9,859.00
National Institute for Culture and History (NICH)
Development of 1st Strategy plan for NICH
8 months
Ongoing
Feb.15.2010
$10,000.00
ECO-MAR
Implementation of the Belize Coral Watch Program 2010
5 months
Ongoing
Feb.15.2010
$14,680.00
Friends of Swallow Caye (FOSC)
Procurement of a Yamaha Boat engine and Repairs to FOSC Boat
3 months
Ongoing
Feb.15.2010
$15,000.00
Purchase of Skiff and engine to strengthening monitoring and surveillance/enforcement within the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
8 months
Ongoing
Feb.15.2010
$20,000.00
Rio Blanco Mayan Association (RBMA)
RBMA Transportation Support
3 months
Ongoing
Feb.15.2010
$1,034.00
Fisheries Department
National Consultation Workshop for Fisheries Department Regulation Legislative Review
6 months
Ongoing
Feb.15.2010
$19,975.00
Rancho Dolores Environmental and Development Co. Ltd.
Spanish Creek Wildlife Sanctuary marketing, Promotion and Development Project - Financial Sustainability Plan
12 months
Ongoing
Mar.26.2010
$600.00
Toledo Development Corporation (TDC) APAMO
Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD)
Total
$156.00
$191,801.00
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Capacity Building Grants PACT seeks to build capacity of stakeholder organizations and individuals through the Capacity Building Program. The goal is to better equip stakeholders to carry out more effective management, advocacy, promotion, and protection of Belize’s natural and cultural resources. At present, PACT provides four (4) different capacity building grant types. These include Research Grants, Short-term Training Grants encompassing Workshop and Professional Development Grants, and Scholarship Grants. The Capacity Building Program also incorporates an internship program that facilitates the placement of interns from various local and international sources to local environmental NGOs, CBOs and governmental agencies.
Research Grants The purpose of Research Grants is to support research to establish an effective knowledge and information base providing baseline data for effective decision making in the management of the natural resources of Belize. These grants are provided to eligible Belizeans interested in conducting thesis research or to organizations conducting research in the establishment of site or system level baseline data relative to the protected area they manage. Research priority areas identified include, but are not limited to, ecosystems, biodiversity, habitats, species and community development. PACT continues to administer two ongoing Research Grants outlined in the table below. Table 4. List of Ongoing Research Grants Individual
Research Area
Objective
Duration
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Faustino Chi
Long term patterns of recovery in mangrove forests and island changes from hurricanes at Turneffe Atoll, Belize
To quantify the efforts of disturbance from Hurricane Hattie and subsequent storms on the community and landscape level ecosystem dynamics in mangrove forest at Turneffe Atoll.
May.5.2008 Oct.31.2010 *Extension pending
Nov.21.2007
$19,940.00
Omar Figueroa
Spatial Ecology and Conservation of the Jaguar (Panthera Onca) in Belize
To determine the population status of the jaguars in Central Belize in addition to describing spatial and temporal parameters of the jaguars’ home range and movement
Dec.6.2007 Dec.31.2010 *Extension pending
Nov.21.2007
$29,000.00
Total
$48,940.00
Short-term Training Grants
Workshop and Professional Development
The Short-term Training Grant for Workshop and Professional Development was established to enable administrative and technical staff, and decision-makers of eligible organizations to attend short-courses, conferences, workshops, seminars, or symposiums that are designed to strengthen their capacities to more effectively and efficiently manage Belize’s natural resources and protected areas. This year, Short-term Training Grants totaled $141,753.08.
10
Table 5. List of Workshop and Professional Development Grants for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization
Title/ Description
Objective
Duration
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA)
Third World Conference for Responsible Tourism
To promote and highlight Responsible Tourism Practices in Belize and host regional tourism stakeholders to promote better networking
Sep.14-Oct.25, 2009
May.6.2009
Galen University
Belize Wildlife Conservation Networking Conference (BWCN)
To first establish the BWCN, then to identify and host entities that work with wildlife in Belize and share information regarding current projects and issues related to wildlife conservation
Aug.13-16.2009
Jul.6.2009
$6,000.00
Fisheries Department
Masters Degree Program in Protected Areas Management and Eco-regional Development - Kirah Forman
To pursue a Masters Degree in Protected Areas Management and Ecoregional Development from the University for International Cooperation
Sep.7.2009Sep.30.2010
Jul.17.2009
$5,480.00
Belize ChapterMesoamerican Society for Biology and Conservation (MSBC)
XIII Congress of the MSBC
Successfully host the first MSBC congress in Belize for the exchange of research and conservation project findings from the Mesoamerican region amongst institutions, professionals, and students involved in conservation
Oct.24-31.2009
Oct.2.2009
$40,000.00
Rio Blanco Mayan Association (RBMA)
Capacity Building for RBMA Board of Directors
To identify and implement a consultancy for the training exercise
Oct.27.2009Mar.22.2010
Oct.6.2010
$10,000.00
Toledo EcoTourism Association (TEA)
CPR/First Aid training for community site guides and district executive training/ orientation
To conduct First Aid/CPR training Red Cross, Toledo Branch and hold executive training along with TEA AGM
Oct.28.2009Mar.15.2010
Oct.6.2010
$2,708.00
Cornerstone Christian Academy (CCA)
Cornerstone Christian Academy support to five students
To provide financial support to 5 CCA students for the current academic year
Oct.8.2009Jul.13.2010
Oct.8.2009
$3,000.00
National Federation of Community-Based Co-Managers
NFCBC Sensitization on Proposed Co-management Agreement
To conduct a working session for the sensitization of NFCBC members on the proposed co-management agreement framework.
Oct.19.2009Ongoing
Oct.19.2009
$3,965.00
Steadfast Tourism and Conservation Association (STACA)
STACA participation in XIII MSBC congress
To participate and make a presentation on BBNP at the XIII MSBC Congress
Oct.27-29.2009
Oct.27.2009
$480.00
Belize Hotel Association
Global Marketing Initiative (GMI)
Implementation of the Global Marketing Initiative
Dec.14.2009Ongoing
Nov.30.2009
$15,000.00
Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE)
Support to the Belizean Delegation for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): 15th Conference of Parties
To facilitate two delegates from the Ministry for the UNFCCC: 15th Conference of Parties
Dec.8.2009Ongoing
Dec.8.2009
$5,610.08
Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MNRE)
Support to MNRE Delegation for the 3rd Mesoamerican Protected Areas Congress in Merida
To facilitate the participation of the Belizean Delegation in the 3rd Mesoamerican Congress on Protected Areas
Mar.7-12,2010
Mar.2.2010
$19,510.00
Total
$30,000.00
$141,753.08
11
Scholarship Grants PACT’s Scholarship Grants provide financial assistance to Belizeans attending or accepted to attend recognized tertiary level institutions in Belize, abroad or through distance learning programs. PACT provides scholarships to pursue studies at the associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s level. Funding priorities are established based on analysis of the capacity needs of stakeholders. In addition to the responsive scholarship funding, PACT has been developing relationships or partnerships with key universities where it can leverage its funding. As a result of these efforts, PACT has identified some specific scholarships it publishes and awards on a yearly basis. This year PACT awarded seven (7) scholarships, three (3) for pursuit of associate’s degrees, two (2) for pursuit of bachelor’s degree, and two (2) for pursuit of master’s degrees. The details are outlined in the table below. Table 6. List of Scholarship Grants Approved for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Individual
Program of Study
Institution
District
Duration
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Dorothy Choco
Associate’s Degree Natural Resource Management
University of Belize
Cayo
Aug.17.2009 May.20.2011
Jul.16.2009
$6,000.00
Ingrid Rodriguez
Bachelor’s Degree Environmental Science
Galen University
Cayo
Sep.7.2009 Apr.29.2011
Jul.16.2009
$15,000.00
Gedisa Avella
Bachelor’s Degree Environmental Science
Galen University
Cayo
Sep.7.2009 Apr.29.2011
Jul.16.2009
$15,000.00
Ramon Carcamo
Master’s Degree - Business Administration, concentration in Sustainable Development
Galen University
Cayo
Sep.7.2009 Apr.29.2011
Jul.16.2009
$14,720.00
Herminio Sho Jr.
Associate’s Degree Natural Resource Management
University of Belize
Toledo
Aug.17.2009 Mar.11.2011
Jul.16.2009
$6,000.00
Anthony Mai
Master’s Degree - Business Administration, concentration in Sustainable Development
Galen University
Cayo
Sep.7.2009 Dec.31.2010
Jul.16.2009
$7,360.00
Noe Verde
Associate’s Degree Environmental Science
Saint John’s College Junior College
Belize
Aug.17.2009 Dec.31.2010
Jul.16.2009
$3,400.00
Total
$67,480.00
Scholarship Award Ceremony
12
Scholarship recipients for this fiscal year
PACT Foundation The Government of Belize signed the Debt for Nature Swap with the US Government and local NGO’s on September 28th, 2001. This agreement required the US Government, with funds from The Nature Conservancy (TNC), to retire (US) $9 million in debt from the Government of Belize. In return, the Belizean Government would issue two bonds in the amount of (US) $7.2 million which would be used in collaboration with local NGO’s to protect valuable forests in the country. The local NGO’s were committed to conserve and manage tropical forests and use the endowments for continued conservation efforts. This agreement became known as the Tropical Forest Conservation Agreement (TFCA). A product of this agreement was the creation of the PACT Foundation which was officially established in November 2004. The PACT Foundation, along with the Belize Audubon Society, Programme for Belize, and the Toledo Institute for Development and Environment are the beneficiaries of this first debt for nature swap.Through this agreement, these four organizations receive monthly contributions from the Government of Belize. The role of the PACT Foundation as per the TFCA was to establish an endowment account with the funds received from the Debt for Nature Swap and issue small grants from the interest income earned from this account. Recipients of these small grants would not include the non-government organizations partaking in this agreement. Through this agreement, funding is provided to registered management organizations of terrestrial protected areas to carry out projects in the areas of general park management and protection, environmental education, equipment, training and research. Under the PACT Foundation grants program, prospective grantees submit proposals in response to “Calls for Proposals” which are advertised at least once a year for grants up to $39,000.00. The PACT Foundation is a separate legal entity from the PACT Trust, but the Trust serves as the administrator of the Foundation’s grants program. At the third PACT Foundation grant award ceremony, a total of five grants were awarded valued at $163,500.00. The awardees are listed in the table below.
Rio Blanco National Park Rio Blanco Mayan Association
Environmental Conservation Education Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management
13
Table 8. List of PACT Foundation Grants Approved for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization Community Baboon Sanctuary Women’s Conservation Group (CBSWCG)
Title/ Description Organizational capacity building and education program
Duration 11 months
Status Ongoing
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Sep.25.2009
$39,500.00
Sep.25.2009
$40,000.00
Objectives 1. Design an efficient and transparent accounting system for CBS 2. Hire experienced and qualified staff that will contribute to the sustainablity of the CBS 3. Design a new operational manual for the CBSWCG 4. Capacity building for managing committee members and staffs 5. Assist the Forest Department and the CBS in enforcing the Wildlife Protection Act Forest and Marine Reserve Association of Caye Caulker (FAMRACC)
Caye Caulker Forest Reserve (CCFR) littoral forest and mangroves restoration and outreach - Phase II
12 months
Ongoing
Objectives 1. Hire a project manager who will maintain the books, also present quarterly reports to the board at board meeting, assist in program development and be responsible for overall project management and reporting 2. Design, production, placement and maintenance of effective informative signs and printed materials for the experimental forest, trails and headquarters (HQ). 3. Advancement of status of experimental forests to include increase in size, diversity and number of plants living in CCFR, in addition to increase in size, number and density of Red Mangroves in fringing communities in the area Rio Blanco Mayan Association (RBMA)
Park management and community outreach for the RBMA
13 months
Ongoing
Sep.25.2009
$40,000.00
Objectives 1. To continue to improve relationships with the communities and school through educational programs and providing solar powered computer systems to each of the two schools in the buffer communities 2. To continue to maintain and monitor Rio Blanco National Park 3. To continue to improve the capacity of RBMA to co-manage Rio Blanco National Park Sarstoon Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM)
Revision of the Sarstoon Temash National Park (STNP) management plan
13 months
Ongoing
Sep.25.2009
$40,000.00
Objectives 1. Produce an up-to-date park management plan that is in alignment with the National Protected Areas Policy and System Plan and that recognizes the new threats that the STNP faces 2. Provide environmental conservation education and outreach to the buffer communities and primary school 3. Produce an assessment of the outgoing Park Management Plan and submit the report to the Forest Department Rancho Dolores Environmental and Development Company Ltd.
Spanish Creek Wildlife Sanctuary marketing, promotion and development project
12 months
Ongoing
Sep.25.2009
$4,000.00
Objective 1. To develop a financial sustainability plan Total
14
$163,500.00
MAR Fund The Mesoamerican Reef Fund (MAR Fund) is a private, non-profit corporation created by four environmental funds from Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and México as a financial mechanism for conservation and adequate resource use in the Mesoamerican Reef Eco-region. The MAR Fund’s mission is to conserve the resources and natural processes in the Mesoamerican Reef region for the benefit of present and future generations, through management, technical and financial support for priority areas and issues such as water quality, sustainable tourism, sustainable fisheries and institutional strengthening. Under the MAR Fund Grants Program, prospective grantees submit proposals in response to “Call for Proposals” which are advertised as least once a year for grants up to $40,000.00. PACT serves as the administrator for the MAR Fund Grants Program in Belize and for the 20092010 fiscal year two grants were awarded (December 2009) at a total value of $283,131.20.
Officers Monitoring Fishermen’s Catch Southern Environmental Association
Table 9. List of MAR Fund Projects Approved for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE) Southern Environmental Association (SEA) Total
Title/ Description
Duration
Status
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Building the capacity of Fishermen Association for involvement in community management of Port Honduras Marine Reserve (PHMR)
12 months
Ongoing
Dec.10.2009
$44,000.00
Improving fisheries enforcement in Belize’s Southern Barrier Reef
12 months
Ongoing
Dec.18.2009
$239,131.20 $283,131.20
15
Environmental Donations Through environmental donations, PACT provides financial assistance to eligible organizations, associations, groups and schools, to develop and implement projects, activities or initiatives that have arisen at short notice and fall outside the time-frame of PACT’s other grants, but within PACT’s priorities. Maximum funding per contribution is $5,000. This year, PACT awarded five environmental donations as listed below.
Dancing and Dining with Nature Belize Audubon Society
Earth Day Clean Up Belize Audubon Society
Table 10. List of Environmental Donations Approved for the period April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2010 Organization
Title/ Description
Date Approved
Amount Approved
Belize Audubon Society (BAS)
Support BAS with “Dancing and Dining with Nature” an event in celebration of BAS’ 40th Anniversary
May.27.2009
$3,000.00
Belize Audubon Society (BAS)
Celebration of Earth Day under the theme “Solutions for Climate Change”
Jun.1.2009
$8,000.00
Rio Blanco Mayan Association (RBMA)
Donation made to RBMA to assist with project manager services
Jun.18.2009
$1,050.00
Community Baboon Sanctuary Women’s Conservation Group (CBSWCG)
Fallet A.Young Environmental Summer Program
Jul.15.2009
$5,000.00
Trial Farm Village Council
Trial Farm Annual Summer Camp
Jul.17.2009
$5,000.00
Total
16
$22,050.00
Financial Report Fiscal year 2009 through 2010 spanned a period still reeling from the ripple effects and uncertainties of the global recession—of particular relevance for PACT was the impact on our local tourism industry since tourist arrivals accounts for just under 90 percent of the Trust’s revenues. Despite the prevailing conditions the Trust experienced only a small dislocation in conservation fee earnings while the gross revenues at $4,500,872 recorded a 12 percent increase relative to the previous year. This gain was largely attributable to a 29 percent increase in commissions earned from arriving cruise ship passengers. The improved revenue intake combined with a moderate decline in administrative expenses resulted in a net surplus after appropriations of some $780,310, a favorable shift of 27 percent compared to the year before. The Trust was also able to convert this stronger fiscal position into greater direct support for the environment with a $574,827 increase in grants to various organizations in this year in comparison to fiscal year 2008-2009. In addition, despite the conservative posture of most financial institutions, the PACT Endowment fund continued to enjoy a relatively good return and at year end the investment stood at a robust $3,597,672.This included an injection of $223,641 from this year’s revenues. Gains from this combined with improved cash on hand position, resulted in a 17 percent increase in the Trust’s Total Reserve and General Fund.
As we move forward we take a moment of pause to remind our stakeholders that the PACT’s financing mechanism requires multiple revenue collection points and succeeds only with the support and commitment of our manifold partners. Therefore, we thank all those organizations who have acted on our behalf. For the upcoming financial year we will continue to pursue a prudent and focused financial management approach as we explore new options to diversify our revenue streams and provide greater support to the Trust in succeeding at its core mission.
17
Distribution of Revenue and Expenditure
Revenue Distribution 2009 - 2010 Interest Earned - 12% PACT Fees - 39% Cruise Ships Commission - 48% Other Income - 1%
Expenditure Distribution 2009 - 2010 Collection Agents Administrative Fees - 3% Collection Agents Administrative Fees - 3%
Administrative Expenese - 27%
Administrative Expenses - 27%
Programme Expenses - 43%
Programme Expenses - 43%
Transfer to Endowment Fund - 5%
Transfer to Endowment Fund - 5%
Institutional Assessment/Strategic Plan (2010-2015) - 3%
Institutional Assessment/Strategic Plan (2011 - 2016) - 3%
Communication Stratetgy 2010 - 2%
Net Surplus After Appropriations - 17%
Communication Strategy 2010 - 2% Net Surplus After Appropriations - 17%
18
19
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 2
STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2010
2009
2, 3 2, 4 2, 5
1542,570 1112,590 254 2655,414
1126,570 1021,443 254 2148,267
2, 6 2, 7
716,629 4861,816 5578,445
818,129 4434,387 5252,516
8233,859
7400,783
184,925 1018,122
71,763 1330,065
Total liabilities
1203,047
1401,828
NET ASSETS
7030,812
5998,955
Capital grants (page 4) Endowment fund reserve (page 4) General fund (page 4)
225,000 3597,672 3208,140
225,000 3282,547 2491,408
TOTAL RESERVE AND GENERAL FUND
7030,812
5998,955
Current assets: Cash and bank Accounts receivable and prepayments Inventories
Notes
Long-term asset: Property and equipment Investments Total assets Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accruals Grants payable
2, 8 2, 9
Reserve and general fund:
Approved on behalf of the board ___________________________Director
___________________________Director Dated:
Auditor's report page 1.
The notes on pages 6 - 13 form an integral part of these financial statements.
20
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 3
STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME YEARS ENDED 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. Notes
2010
2009
1775,539 2146,458 552,476 26,399 4500,872
1863,756 1663,870 483,276 2,224 4013,126
125,775 1069,595 136,810 1332,180
130,476 1490,139 198,696 1819,311
Maintenance of billboards and signs Non-environmental donations Environmental donations Project grants disbursed, net of unspent funds Capacity building and scholarships Research and information sharing PACT promotions and awareness education
12,570 1803,229 105,472 42,526 1963,797
13,777 4,220 1184,580 114,619 8,000 51,204 1376,400
Net surplus before appropriations
1204,895
817,415
223,641
200,656
REVENUES Conservation fees Commissions Interest income Contributions and other income
10
LESS EXPENSES: OPERATING EXPENSES: Collection agents' administrative fees Administrative expenses (Page 14) Depreciation
PROGRAMME EXPENSES:
Transfer to endowment fund (Page 4) Extra-ordinary items: Institutional assesment/strategic plan (2010-2015)
139,965
-
Communications strategy 2010
60,978
-
Net surplus after appropriations
780,310
616,759
The notes on pages 6 - 13 form an integral part of these financial statements.
21
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 4
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY YEARS ENDED 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2010
2009
225,000
225,000
3282,547
2995,025
91,483
86,866
3374,030
3081,891
223,641
200,656
1
-
3597,672
3282,547
CAPITAL GRANTS Land grant from Recondev, Belmopan Belmopan registration section - Block 20 Parcel 6334 Valued by a qualified appraiser
ENDOWMENT FUND RESERVE Balance brought forward Additional appropriation from Interest earned on the Endowment Fund at 31st March 2009 / 2008
Transfer from General Fund Adjustment: rounding Balance carried forward
Section 30 of the Protected Areas Conservation Trust Act provides for the establishment of an Endowment Fund which shall receive no less than 5% of the total revenue derived from the Trust Fund during each fiscal year. The Endowment Fund shall be drawn on only in emergencies, contingencies and for such purposes as the Board of Directors may determnine and only upon the unanimous agreement of the full Board. GENERAL FUND General fund, beginning of year Interest earned on endowment fund General fund restated Net surplus (page 3) Transfer to endowment fund Prior year item Extra-ordinary expenses
2491,408 (91,483) 2399,925 1204,895 (223,641) 27,905 (200,943)
1961,515 (86,866) 1874,649 817,415 (200,656) -
General fund, end of year
3208,140
2491,408
TOTAL RESERVES AND GENERAL FUND
7030,813
5998,955
The notes on pages 6 - 13 form an integral part of these financial statements.
22
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 5
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS YEARS ENDED 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2010
2009
Cash flow from operating activities: Net surplus before appropriations - Loss on disposal of assets - Depreciation - Extraordinary items - Prior year item
1204,895 136,810 (200,943) 27,905 1168,667
817,415 7,003 198,696 1023,114
(91,147) 113,162 (311,943) -
50,652 (32,890) (281,056) 833
878,739
760,653
Proceeds from the disposal of assets Acquisition of assets (Increase) in investments
(35,310) (427,429)
3,024 (15,531) (313,765)
Net cash flow (used by) investing activities
(462,739)
(326,272)
Add/(less): (Increase) / decrease in accounts receivable and prepayments Increase / (decrease) in accounts payable and accruals (Decrease) in grants payable Decrease in inventories Net cash flow from operating activities Cash flow from investing activities:
Net increase in cash and bank balances Cash and bank balances at the beginning of the year
416,000
434,381
1126,570
692,189
Cash and bank balances at the end of the year
1542,570
1126,570
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Non-cash transaction Revaluation of land donated by RECONDEV
-
225,000
The notes on pages 6 - 13 form an integral part of these financial statements.
23
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 6
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 1.
STATUS Protected Ares Conservation Trust (PACT) was established by statute under the Protected Areas Conservation Trust Act, Chapter 218 of the Laws of Belize, Revised 2000. PACT is a non-profit organization whose primary objective is to encourage and promote the conservation and enhancement of the natural and cultural resources of Belize for the benefit and enjoyment of the present and future generations of Belizeans. PACT is funded primarily from a conservation fee imposed under Section 33 of the Protected Areas Conservation Trust Act. The Organization also receives twenty percent of cruise ship passenger fees imposed under Section 21 of the Act. These fees are paid by visitors to Belize on their departure. The principal office of PACT is located in Belmopan, Belize. The Organization employed 14 persons at 31st March 2010.
2.
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Basis of preparation In its financial report and presentations, the Organization consistently employs those accounting policies and practices which it believes most realistically portray results of operations. The financial statements are prepared under the historical cost convention. The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to the periods presented in these financial statements. The financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis which assumes that the Organization will continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The validity of this assumption depends on the continuing existence of the legislation that created the Organization. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that would result if the assumption should be invalid. Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand and deposits held on call with local banks.
-continues
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PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 7
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2.
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) Foreign currencies Transactions in foreign currencies during the period have been translated at the rates ruling on the dates of the transactions. Foreign currency balances outstanding at the date of the statement of financial position are shown at the rates ruling on that date. Gains and losses, both realized and unrealized, are included in the statements of comprehensive income. Accounts receivable Accounts receivable is carried at original amount due and is subsequently stated at amortized cost, less provision for impairment. A provision for impairment is established when there is objective evidence that the Organization will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the agreement. At 31st March 2010, the Organization had made no provisions for impairment of accounts receivable. Inventories Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value, cost being determined on the "first-in, first out" (FIFO) basis. Investments Investments are stated at the lower of cost or market value. Property, plant, and equipment Property, plant and equipment are recorded at historical cost and are subsequently stated at depreciated value. Land is not depreciated; other assets are depreciated using the straight line method over their estimated useful lives as follows: Building Furniture and fixtures Office equipment Motor vehicles
40 years 10 years 3 -10 years 4 years
Subsequent costs are included in the asset's carrying value or recognized as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the Organization and the cost can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to income during the financial period in which they are incurred. When equipment are disposed of by sale or scrapping, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in the statement of comprehensive income. - continues
25
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 8
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2.
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) Property, plant, and equipment (continued) Freehold land is stated at appraised market value as determined by a qualified valuator. Trade and other payables Trade and other payables are recognized on an accrual basis, when goods or services are received. Payables are recognized initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost. Grants Payable Grants payable consists of grants awarded by the Organization to various groups. Grants payable are recognized as an expense in the fiscal period in which they are approved and the contract agreements with the grantees are signed. The liability recorded is reduced when disbursements are made to the grantees. Income recognition The Organization receives income from a number of different sources and classifies the income based on the source of revenue. These categories include conservation fees, commissions, interest income, contributions and other income. Income is recorded on the accrual basis. Grant income Grants and donations received for research that are restricted in use by the donor are recorded as deferred income and recognized in the same period as the related expenses / payments are incurred. Contributions received for the purchase of capital assets are amortized to income in amounts equal to the depreciation expense taken on these assets. Other grants are recognized as income over the period agreed for receipt of the grant, subject to management's assessment of collectability. Support for future periods is recorded as deferred support. All contributions are considered to be available for unrestricted use unless specifically restricted by the donor. Interest income and expense Interest income and expense are recognized in the statement of comprehensive income for all interest bearing instruments on the accrual basis using the effective yield method based on the actual purchase price. Interest income includes interest earned on fixed income investments.
-continues
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PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 9
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2.
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) Expenses Expenses are recognized on the accrual basis, when goods are received or services are rendered. FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT The Organization's activities are exposed to a variety of financial risks: credit risk, liquidity risk and cash flow risk, market risk and marketing risk. Credit Risk Financial instruments which potentially subject PACT to concentrations of credit risk consist of cash accounts and investments placed in financial institutions. The Organization addresses this risk by placing its financial instruments with high quality financial institutions. Liquidity risk and cash flow risk The Organization is exposed to liquidity risk and cash flow risk which in this case is the risk that sufficient cash will not be available in the low tourist season to cover normal operating expenses and fixed costs, and also approving and disbursing of grants and the possibility that debtors (agents) may not be able to settle obligations to the Organization within the normal terms of trade. To manage this risk, the Organization uses prudent policies when evaluating proposals submitted. Market risk The Organization is exposed to market risk from changes in the tourism industry. If there is a decrease in tourist arrivals, then there is a reciprocal downward spiral in fees collected on behalf of the Organization. The Organization's operating and financing plans includes setting up reserves and other actions to minimize this uncertainty. Marketing risk The Organization is faced with increased marketing risks resulting from the tourism market that is largely seasonal. Additionally, economic and political events, natural disasters, epidemics and terrorist attacks may affect tourists' decisions to travel and impair the development of the Organization. The Organization works to minimize this uncertainty by investing in local and international tourism awareness campaigns relating to Belize and the environment.
3.
2010
2009
1542,141 429 1542,570
1125,985 585 1126,570
CASH AND BANK Cash and bank consist of the following: Bank accounts Cash on hand
27
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 10
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2010 4.
2009
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND PREPAYMENTS Accounts receivable and prepayments consist of the following: Trade receivables Interest receivable Other receivables & prepayments Staff loans
5.
594,866 427,611 69,957 20,156
548,436 383,545 38,211 51,251
1112,590
1021,443
254
254
INVENTORIES Inventories consist of the following: Unused ticket books
6.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property and equipment consists of the following:
2010 Cost
Land
Motor vehicles
Furniture, fittings and equipment
Total
Cost at 31st March 2009 Additions Disposal
648,315 -
387,612 (93,460)
414,484 35,310 -
1450,411 35,310 (93,460)
Cost at 31st March 2009
648,315
294,152
449,794
1392,260
Balance at 31st March 2009 Additions Disposal
68,026 8,500
246,495 78,508 -
317,761 49,802 (93,460)
632,282 136,810 (93,460)
Balance at 31st March 2009
76,526
325,003
274,103
675,632
571,789
(30,852)
175,691
716,628
Depreciation
Net Book Value at 31st March 2010
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
28
- continues Page 11
PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 11
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 6.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT (continued)
2009 Cost
Land
Motor vehicles
Furniture, fittings and equipment
Total
Cost at 31st March 2008 Revaluation Additions Disposal
423,315 225,000 -
390,112 (2,500)
430,132 15,531 (31,179)
1243,559 225,000 15,531 (33,679)
Cost at 31st March 2009
648,315
387,612
414,484
1450,411
Balance at 31st March 2008 Additions Disposal
59,526 8,500
150,151 97,594 (1,250)
247,562 92,602 (22,403)
457,239 198,696 (23,653)
Balance at 31st March 2009
68,026
246,495
317,761
632,282
580,289
141,117
96,723
818,129
Depreciation
Net Book Value at 31st March 2009
Freehold land includes land donated to the Organization that is situated in Belmopan. This will be utilized for the construction of new offices for PACT. The land is recorded at market value as prepared by a qualified valuator. Construction of the new office has been deferred. 7.
INVESTMENTS
2010
2009
4861,816
4434,387
Investments consist of the following: Term deposits
Term deposits include funds for the Endowment Fund amounting to $3,597,672 ( 2009 - 3,282,548). These funds are restricted - See page 4. 8.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUALS Accounts payable and accruals consists of the following: Trade payable and accruals Local Govt Tourism Development Fund Pact administration fees Professional services Utilities Belize Bank Visa PAYE Social security Contract tax Gratuity payable
7,490 68,685 16,325 71,499 2,427 7,272 7 75 11,146 184,925
24,833 16,025 3,575 1,759 24,855 717 71,763
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PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 12
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 9.
GRANTS PAYABLE
2010
2009
62,871 -
129,431 68,135
-
21,355 3,000
-
2,938
-
24,813
-
1,469
15,465
38,983
28,920 77,475 66,417 4,766 3,009 3,995
212,079 297,355 276,127 44,734 67,092 10,490 5,110 37,039 27,780
Grants payable consists of funds approved, but not disbursed, for the following projects: Forest Department - Institutional Strengthening of the Biodiversity Management Program of the Forest Department SATIIM - Sarstoon Temash National Park TIDE - Improving the Management of Payne's Creek National Park Belize Association of Private Protected Areas (BAPPA) Community Baboon Sanctuary Women's Conservation Group Indigenous People Conservation Alliance (IPCA) Aguascalientes Management Team - Protecting Biodiversity through Sustainable Income Generation Belize Audubon Society - Towards the Sustainability of BAS Managed Protected Areas University of Belize - Developing the University of Belize's Natural Resource Management Program Oak Foundation Friends for Conservation & Development Friends of Nature Ya'xche Conservation Trust Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary Toledo Institute for Development and Environment(TIDE) Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development Belize Fishermen Cooperative (BFCA) Coastal Zone Management Authority & Institute Belize Fisheries Department - Natural Resource Management Program APAMO Shipstern Nature Reserve (SNR) Sarteneja Fisherman Association (SFA) Ca'ac Alenel Car Sa Nima (San Miguel) Trial Farm Village Council Anthony Mai Astrid Bobadilla Diana Mai Dorothy Choco Faustino Chi Gail McNab Gaspari Cordoba Gedisa Avella Herminio Sho Jr. Sub-total
326,686 122,549 59,547 43,564 30,000 103,000 2,735 2,510 4,224 936 3,407 27,640 4,910 4,839 999,465
3,027 7,926 936 7,191 27,640 1314,650 -continues
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PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 13
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2010 9.
2009
GRANTS PAYABLE (continued) Balance brought forward Ingrid Rodriquez Ivanna Waight Jeneen Leiva Mainka Garcia Noe Verde Omar Figueroa Ramon Carcamo Raul Chun Yahaira Urbina
999,465
1314,650
8,250 2,517 423 733 5,970 764 -
6,936 2,496 1,969 733 764 2,517
1018,122
1330,065
10. COMMISSIONS Commissions represent 20% of all cruise ship fees. 11. TAXATION Section 38 of the Protected Areas Conservation Trust Act exempts PACT from income tax, property tax and stamp duty. Section 108 (1) (f) of the Income and Business Tax Act exempts the receipts of any charitable institution from the payment of business tax. PACT is subject to payment of GST to its registered suppliers. 12. FIDUCIARY ACTIVITIES PACT performs a fiduciary function on three partnership grants, namely Proctected Areas Conservation Trust Foundation,The Mesoamerican Reef Fund and National Protected Areas Commission which are kept in a separate accounting system and are not disclosed in the PACT's financial statements as a project liability. 13. CONTINGENCY An amendment to the Environment Protection Act in April 209 established the Environmental Management Fund. The Act now requires PACT to contribute 20% of its revenues to this fund. PACT did not make this contribution nor an accrual for the year ended 31st March 2010. PACT is presently in discussion with the Ministry of Natural Resources to reduce the required contribution to 5% and for it to commence in the current year, year ended 31st March 2011.
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PROTECTED AREAS CONSERVATION TRUST
Page 14
SCHEDULE OF EXPENSES YEARS ENDED 31ST MARCH 2010 AND 2009 All amounts are expressed in Belize dollars. 2010
2009
General and administrative: Accounting and audit Advertising Bank charges Board meetings Cleaning Computer services Dues, subscriptions and donations Insurance Legal fees Loss on disposal Miscellaneous expenses Office stationery and supplies Other professional fees Repairs and maintenance Security services Social security contributions, employer Staff benefits Staff salaries Staff training and exchanges Travel and subsistence Trust Advisory Council expenses Utilities Vehicle expenses Website expenses
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30,765 6,166 1,316 53,099 13,817 16,548 5,294 21,340 39,749 6,979 21,290 2,501 11,832 223,756 466,197 12,385 17,696 8,103 42,976 65,096 2,692
12,800 9,364 2,174 88,357 15,320 1,269 16,386 9,342 45,120 7,003 889 49,664 15,339 14,090 322,465 624,830 54,104 32,895 3,610 48,359 114,746 2,013
1069,595
1490,139
This year’s featured Protected Area...
Mayflower Bocawina National Park
Stann Creek District, Belize Friends of Mayflower started as a community group out of Dangriga, formed as the members saw the need to protect and preserve the area. The Mayflower Bocawina National Park was declared a national park in 2001. Mayflower has over 7000 acres of tropical evergreen broadleaf forest found in a semi-mountainous terrain on a feeder road off mile six on the Southern Highway.
PACT Project
Mayan Sites Three Mayan sites are located in the park: Mayflower Plaza, Maintzunun Temple and T’au Witz. These three sites are still under excavation by the Mayflower Archeology Project. Archeologists predict once the excavation is complete the Mayflower site will rank as one of the largest in Belize. Waterfalls There are many waterfalls in the park with the main ones being Bocawina Falls, Three Sisters Falls, and Antelope Falls—each uniquely different and pristine. Smaller waterfalls include Peck Falls and Big Drop Falls. Wildlife Mayflower is home to an expanse of wildlife. Over 200 different species of birds have been sighted at Mayflower. You can expect to see the Keel Billed Motmot, trogans, parrots, toucans and macaws. Giant heliconia flower, sweet bunches of the Banana Musa Balbisiana fruit and wild jungle breadfruit are all native to the Mayflower area. The animals of the park include howler monkeys, coatimundis, anteaters, peccaries, deer, ocelots, agoutis, kinkajous, Northern tamanduams, several dozen species of bats, tapirs and the elusive jaguar. Plan to visit? The visitor’s center is open to the public on a daily basis. You will meet Mr. Guzman and Mr. Pau, wardens of the park, who are always around to assist and inform visitors about the area. Trail and site maps are also available at the visitor’s center. Park services include hiking, day and night camping, bird watching and swimming in natural pools at the breathtaking waterfalls! Admission is BZ $2 for Belizeans and BZ $10 (US $5) for Non-Belizeans.
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Name
IUCN Documented Category Area (acre)
Declared Protected Areas of Belize
Archaeological Reserves - Legislation: Ancient Monuments and Antiquities Act 44.000 Altun Ha II 22.390 Cahal Pech II 25,000.000 Caracol II 534.359 Cerro Maya II 1,997.000 El Pilar II 958.500 Lamanai II 121.320 Nim Li Punit II 3.730 Santa Rita II 51.600 Xunantunich II _________________________________________________________________________________ Bird Sanctuaries - Legislation: Crown Lands Act 1.288 Bird Caye IV 3.690 Doubloon Bank IV 2.567 Little Guana Caye IV 2.928 Los Salones IV 1.913 Man of War Caye IV 1.285 Monkey Caye IV 1.066 Un-named IV _________________________________________________________________________________ Forest Reserves - Legislation: Forests Act 100.000 Caye Caulker VI 147,810.000 Chiquibul VI 148,357.000 Deep River VI 78,574 Freshwater Creek VI 28,069.000 Grants Work VI 7,590.000 Machaca VI 3,119.000 Manatee VI 90,425.000 Mango Creek 1 VI 10,523.049 Mango Creek 2 VI 213.000 Mango Creek 3 VI 4,800.000 Mango Creek 4 VI 14,670.000 Maya Mountain VI 41,741.000 Monkey Caye VI 1,460.000 Mountain Pine Ridge VI 106,477.809 Sibun VI 106,192.000 Sittee River VI 93,920.000 Swasey Bladen VI 15,000.000 Vaca VI 40,375.000 Aguas Turbias VI _________________________________________________________________________________ Mangrove Reserves - Legislation: National Lands Act 15.000 St. George’s Caye
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Name
IUCN Documented Category Area (acre)
Declared Protected Areas of Belize
Marine Reserves - Legislation: Fisheries Act 15,577.000 Bacalar Chico IV 9,669.948 Caye Caulker VI 25,600.000 Gladden Spit/ Silk Cayes IV 86,652.097 Glover’s Reef IV 4,036.625 Hol Chan II 101,100.000 Port Honduras IV 33,401.000 Sapodilla Cayes IV 78,374.000 Southwater Cayes IV 1,375.994 Caye Bokel, Turneffe Island Atoll IV 1,407.994 Dog Flea Caye, Tureffe Island Atoll IV _________________________________________________________________________________ National Parks - Legislation: National Parks System Act 28,148.000 Bacalar Chico V 1,500.000 Billy Barquedier II 285,937.000 Chiquibul II 4,250.000 Five Blues Lake II 1,197.000 Gra Gra Lagoon II 51.500 Guanacastte II 7,772.000 Honey Camp II 10,119.000 Laughing Bird Caye II 7,565.610 Mayflower Bocawina II 2,250.000 Monkey Bay II 14,124.300 Noj Kaax Meen Eligio Panti II 37,680.000 Paynes Creek II 10,744.000 Peccary Hills II 100.000 Rio Blanco II 41,000.000 Sarstoon/ Temash II 574.500 St. Herman’s Blue Hole II _________________________________________________________________________________ Natural Monuments - Legislation: National Parks System Act 455.000 Actun Tunichil Muknal Ia 1,023.000 Blue Hole III 9,700.000 Half Moon Caye II 1,290.000 Thousand Foot Fall III 4,847.000 Victoria Peak III _________________________________________________________________________________ Nature Reserves - Legislation: National Parks System Act 99,673.800 Bladen Ia 5,970.000 Burdon Creek Ia 6,286.000 Tapir Mountain II
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Name
IUCN Documented Category Area (acre)
Declared Protected Areas of Belize
Private Reserves 283.900 Aguacate Lagoon IV 12,980.011 Community Baboon Sanctuary IV 15,000.000 Golden Stream Corridor Preserve IV 1,473.588 Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary IV 259,134.152 Rio Bravo Conservation & Management Area IV 7,123.800 Runaway Creek IV 18,840.381 Shipstern Nature Reserve IV 11,000.000 TIDE Block 127 IV _________________________________________________________________________________ Public Reserves - Legislation: National Lands Act 57.800 Krooman Reserve 0.688 Dolphin Park II 0.750 Seine Bight Village 19.988 Cockroach Bay 0.820 Grants Land, Corozal District _________________________________________________________________________________ Spawning Aggregation Site Reserves - Legislation: Fisheries Act 1,343.995 Emily or Caye Glory IV 3,590.396 Gladden Spit IV 1,918.224 Maugre Caye, Turneffe Atoll IV 927.313 Northern Two Cayes, Lighthouse Reef IV 1,663.993 Nicholas Caye, Sapodilla Cayes IV 1,799.193 Northern Glover’s Reef Atoll IV 4,249.583 Rise and Fall Bank, Sapodilla Cayes IV 1,404.794 Rocky Point, Ambergris Caye IV 1,279.995 Sandbore, Lighthouse Reef Atoll IV 1,599.994 Seal Caye, Sapodilla Cayes IV 1,343.995 South Point, Lighthouse Reef Atoll IV _________________________________________________________________________________ Wildlife Sanctuaries - Legislation: National Parks System Act 5,492.000 Aguacaliente (Luha) IV 87,318.000 Cockscomb Basin IV 180,500.000 Corozal Bay IV 41,297.000 Crooked Tree IV 9,095.000 Gales Point IV 5,985.000 Spanish Creek IV 8,970.130 Swallow Caye IV Note: S.R. & O - Statutory Rule & Order S. I - Statutory Instrument Documented Area may differ from the GIS area Private Reserves are only those recognized by the Forest Department Source: Land Information Centre, Land and Surveys Department
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3 Mango Street City of Belmopan Cayo District, Belize Tel: +501 822 3637 Fax: +501 822 3759 Email: info@pactbelize.org Website: www.pactbelize.org