A simple market analysis was conducted in order to define marketing strategies for ecotourism services, together with artisanal fishermen. Partnerships were also established with local tourism agencies and the regional government to promote these services. Flyers were designed and handed out to advertise trips and showcase manta ray conservation. Workshops in local schools and dissemination through local press also promoted manta ray conservation and presented tourism alternatives. In addition, a proposal for national protection of Giant Manta Rays was presented to national authorities, which will contribute to protecting this valuable tourism resource.

Two fishermen groups were selected to receive funding to develop ecotourism services, and receive support to acquire the required tourism permits. Necessary infrastructure, including boat refurnishment, life jackets, snorkels and masks, was identified by artisanal fishermen and the local Coast Guard. Agreements were signed with fishermen and the necessary equipment was provided through zero-interest micro-loans. Regular meetings with fishermen provided follow-up and personalized mentorship regarding ecotourism development and environmental leadership.

The Reserve’s Conceptual Ecological Model (CEM) was created through a participatory approach aiming to understand the interactions between the Reserve and its surroundings, specifically the processes that link ecosystems, species and conservation values inside the Reserve, and to recognize the conditions under which those processes could change and affect conservation values inside the Reserve.

To help offsetting adverse effects of resource use limitations or conflicting interests, and where feasible, LLCTC explores options of developing alternative incomes, especially where there is a clear opportunity cost incurred through conservation. Options include the integration of ecotourism with conservation, such as building eco-lodges or to develop eco-timber operation as an alternative to industrial logging.

Establish a framework that is ensured through an environmental and conservation committee made up by representatives of the LLTC, government, partners (TNC) and the communities involved, and that meets twice a year. The committee is charged with overseeing the implementation of the network in accordance with the conservation master plan and by synthesizing progress made at each protected area thereof.

A process is established between the LLCTC’s environmental officer, the contact point in the community and the community committee through monthly visits that allow for exchange between the management committee and partners to ensure long-term sustainability, commitment and true partnership. These visits also help to address and solve needs and problems that may occur, as well for sharing experiences and cross-learning.

The coastal scenery classification is used by coastal managers, planners, academics, and governmental agencies, and local coastal zone managers. Evaluation of environmental, physical and usage parameters enables the identification and characterization of variables, which must be managed more effectively in order to promote overall improvements of the scenic value. Most sites have physical parameters for which coastal zone managers can do little or nothing to alleviate scenic impact, so emphasis should be given to assessing ways of improving different human usage parameters (i.e. litter collection campaign, fixing sewage-related problems, noise, access, utilities, etc.). Existing management plans can be revised or developed to consider scenery related issues by updating conservation targets’ statuses, identifying additional conservation targets, reviewing and revising weaknesses, and adjusting strategy and monitoring protocols. Additional scenery evaluations are required in order to evaluate plan effectiveness. The scenery management tool ensures a better littoral zone and long-term goods and services for local communities and tourists. It guides littoral managers to anticipate future impacts from human interventions.