Corporation for the Conservation of the San Juan Bay Estuary

The Corporation for the Conservation of the San Juan Bay Estuary is a non-profit organization focused on restoring and conserving the water quality in the San Juan Bay Estuary ecosystem. Located in Puerto Rico, it operates within the context of the National Estuary Program (NEP), established under the Clean Water Act of the United States.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the Corporation is to ensure the San Juan Bay Estuary serves as a sustainable hub of social and economic development by maintaining its ecological health. This involves promoting and implementing the Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan (CCMP) for the estuary, monitoring its progress, and enhancing public awareness about the estuary's importance.

Key Activities

• Conservation Efforts: The corporation works to protect and restore major habitats such as coral reefs, mangroves, wetlands, and freshwater marshes within the estuary.
• Species Conservation: It plays a crucial role in safeguarding endangered or threatened species, including least terns, brown pelicans, and roseate terns.
• Community Involvement: The Corporation engages local communities through education and outreach programs, fostering community involvement in restoration projects.
• Climate Change Adaptation: It has developed climate change vulnerability assessments and adaptation plans to address risks posed by urban development and climate change.

Structure

The Corporation operates with a board of directors composed of volunteers. It receives financial support from federal, state, and private sources, enabling it to implement its conservation goals.

Significance

As the only tropical estuary in the National Estuary Program and located outside the continental United States, the San Juan Bay Estuary offers unique opportunities for environmental learning and conservation efforts in tropical ecosystems.

History

The estuary was designated as an "Estuary of National Importance" in 1992. The Corporation was established to continue implementing the CCMP long-term, ensuring ongoing conservation efforts in the region.