Bonaire National Marine Park - KLEIN BONAIRE - MANAGEMENT

The Bonaire National Marine Park of STINAPA Bonaire assumed the management of Klein Bonaire in 2001. The island of Bonaire is owner of the islet, which was purchased in 1999 and was privately owned since 1886.

The management responsibilities of the BNMP toward Klein Bonaire focus on tasks that foster the preservation of its unique habitat, while promoting sustainable use of the island for its many visitors.

Moorings
The BNMP has responsibility for the regular maintenance of the moorings buoys surrounding Klein Bonaire.

Shade huts
Huts to provide shade for visitors were built by the Rangers. The materials for these huts were paid for through a grant received by STCB from the Rotterdam Zoo of the Netherlands.

Information signs
Information signs regarding the nesting of sea turtles and the proper use of Klein Bonaire by visitors were also paid for with the grant provided by the Rotterdam Zoo.

Clean-ups
Since the island’s beaches are important for sea turtle nesting and egg laying, regular clean ups are organized. These are held at least twice a year. Many volunteers help with this coordinated effort.

Garbage/Trash
Once a week the BNMP Rangers take the garbage bins to the mainland and empty them at the landfill, wash them and transport them back to the island.

Management of flora
Working jointly with CARMABI, STINAPA Bonaire started replanting the indigenous plants, which were native to the island before goats and donkeys were introduced and trees were commercially harvested. A group of students who also were involved in replanting activities in the WSNP took care of the plants and watered them. Now that they have left, volunteers have taken over the task.