Our Vision for the Corridor
We want to see both the protection and the sustainable development of the Corridor. We want to see the Corridor as an engine for the local economy of the surrounding towns of Luquillo and Fajardo
Designation as a nature reserve and an Eco Touristic Destination
We are proposing that the Corridor be designated a nature reserve as it was for the first time in 1978 by both local and federal authorities. The natural treasures of the Corridor can and should be protected for the enjoyment of all and will be a special attraction for both internal and external tourists alike. Among the various tourism markets, eco-tourism is showing the fastest growth globally. We are proposing that the Corridor be one of Puerto Rico's premier eco-tourism destinations.
Establishment of an Eco-lodge
There several Caribbean eco-lodges that might serve as a model, for example the Maho Bay Eco-Resort on the island of Saint John in the US Virgin Islands. This lodge is known internationally for its sustainable design and management, having been made from recycled materials, using renewable energy, respecting the topography of the area, using rain water, and special treatment of sewage.
Mountain to Coast Trail
We are also proposing the development of a trail from El Yunque to the Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo, which would cross the Corridor making it all the more attractive. This would be the longest trail in Puerto Rico and would serve as a prime tourism attraction like the Appalachian Trail in the US or the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Hikers would use local services for lodging, food, and guides, all of which would be provided by residents of regional towns.
Access to our Beaches and Natural Resources
Our beaches and natural treasures should be accessible to all of us. We all should have the right to enjoy and get to know our natural heritage.
Access for Fishermen
Various mega-hotels and recreational marinas have been built on the Northeastern coast, limiting access to the ocean for fishermen. Nonetheless local fishermen use the Corridor's waters to fish for bait. We are proposing free access to the Corridor for fishermen.
Observation of Turtle Nesting
The beaches of the Corridor are one of the three most important nesting sites for the Leatherback turtle in US jurisdiction. During the last nesting season the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources recorded more than 450 Leatherback turtle nests in the Corridor, an all-time high for the Marine Turtle Monitoring Program. The population of turtles that use the beaches to nest also do so in Culebra and Saint Croix.
Turtle observation is considered to be a prime eco-tourism attraction worldwide, now surpassing dolphin watching. The Corridor could provide this attraction for the island, as long as the development of the observation is done sustainably and in compliance with the rules and laws guiding the treatment of endangered species.
Surfing
The Corridor is home to some of the most popular surfing beaches in Puerto Rico. The Corridor's rough waves provide good rides for the surfers and turtles alike.
Bird Watching
The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources has documented an extremely high diversity of bird life in the Corridor. In fact, the Corridor provides habitat for 24 rare, endemic, vulnerable or endangered birds for example la Chirimía caribeña, la Paloma sabanera y el Carpintero de Puerto Rico.
According to Fish and Wildlife statistics, there are twice as many birdwatchers than golfers in the United Status. Considering that more than 85% of Puerto Rico's tourists come from the US, we might want to pay attention to this statistic. Does it make sense to fill the Corridor with golf courses when its very characteristics are the real attraction?
An Array of Recreational Amenities
We hope the Corridor will become a hot spot for hikers, bikers, kayakers, snorklers, scuba divers and campers and that these services will be provided by local residents.
Development of the local economy
The Coalition has proposed the development local entrepreneurs who will provide the products and services that visitors to the Corridor will need: tours, lessons, observation, equipment, etc.
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