Belize is justifiably proud of its natural heritage. Although a
small country by geography and population, Belize is home to the
largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere – a centerpiece
of a marine area rich in species and ecosystems, and a strong
attraction for tourists from around the world. At the same time,
Belize’s land based ecosystems support an unrivaled richness of
scenery and wildlife and an exciting destination area for
Belizeans and visitors. Belize’s archaeological treasures are
generously sprinkled around the country, and include some world-
class sites with international importance both for their beauty,
but also the information they contain about our human past.
Recognizing the importance of its national heritage, Belize
began establishing its protected areas system in the 1960s. The
legislative base prior to the establishment of the Protected
Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) included the Forest Act, the
National Parks System Act, the Fisheries Act, the Ancient
Monuments and Antiquities Or