Three Years of the Hermandad Marine Reserve: A Milestone in Marine Conservation and Fisheries Sustainability

The HMR: A Vital Bridge in Marine Conservation

Located within Ecuador's Insular Exclusive Economic Zone, the Hermandad Marine Reserve (HMR) connects the migratory routes of marine species between the Galápagos Marine Reserve and Cocos Island National Park in Costa Rica. This protected area is designed not only to preserve critical habitats but also to ensure the safe migration of species such as hammerhead sharks and leatherback turtles, which rely on these spaces for feeding, reproduction, and survival.

Over the past three years, the HMR has implemented key measures to ensure ocean sustainability, including the establishment of a 30,000 km² No-Take Zone , where no extractive activities are allowed, and a 30,000 km² Responsible Fishing Zone , with strict regulations such as the prohibition of longline fishing. These actions aim to protect endangered species and ensure that fishing activities remain responsible and sustainable.

During the anniversary discussion, Eliécer Cruz, Director of the Galápagos Program at Fundación Jocotoco , emphasized that for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to be effective, they must be properly managed, supported by scientific data, and secured with sustainable funding. He also stressed the importance of involving all sectors in the design of MPAs to prevent them from becoming merely symbolic "paper reserves" and instead ensuring they are truly effective spaces for ocean conservation and the migratory species that depend on them.

Regional Collaboration and the Fishing Sector

The HMR has also served as a model for collaboration between the fishing sector and conservation organizations. Since its creation, Fundación Jocotoco and Tunacons have worked together to ensure that fishing activities are compatible with the conservation of vulnerable species. Dialogue tables between artisanal and industrial fishing representatives and conservation organizations have helped define fishing areas while respecting boundaries and promoting sustainable practices that do not threaten marine ecosystems.

Guillermo Morán, Executive Director of Tunacons , stated: "The ocean is the source of life on Earth; conserving it and fishing sustainably is not an optionit is a necessity for the future of our planet."

The national fishing sector has complied with the new regulations established within the Hermandad Marine Reserve, contributing to the long-term conservation benefits of several vulnerable species inhabiting this area.

Future Perspectives

Looking ahead, the Hermandad Marine Reserve aims to continue strengthening its management through new regional alliances and international cooperation. There are plans for the HMR to be recognized as a Biosphere Reserve , which would position Ecuador as a global leader in marine conservation. Additionally, the reserve plans to expand its efforts in education and awareness, not only among fishermen but also within the global community, ensuring that ocean protection remains a shared priority

During the discussion, María Auxiliadora Farías, Director of the Galápagos National Park , highlighted that in its three years of existence, the Hermandad Marine Reserve has become a model for intergovernmental collaboration and international cooperation. "The success of its conservation depends on the commitment and joint action of all stakeholders involved," she stated.

Patricia León, Associate Director of Nature Conservation at Bezos Earth Fund , added: "The Hermandad Marine Reserve sends a clear message to the world: protecting our oceans is not an optionit is a necessity. With determination and collaboration, we can conserve biodiversity and sustainably manage marine resources."

With three years of success, the Hermandad Marine Reserve continues to pave the way for a more sustainable future, protecting marine species and fostering collaboration to preserve the region's oceans.