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Chapter 2

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

2.1 Meteorology

There is no site-specific data on temperatures for the project area. The mean air temperature ofthe lower coastal plain in the project area is 79 F (26 C) [Nunny et al, 2001]. Temperaturesrange from 73 F (23 C) in cooler months to 82 F (28 C) in the warmer months (Nunny etal, 2001).

There is no site-specific rainfall data. The project area falls within the Stann Creek District andgenerally the average rainfall is 3000 mm/yr in the mountains and 2,000 mm/yr on the lowercoastal plain (King et al 1989 and Walker 1973). False Caye lies closest to the South StannCreek River outfall where annual rainfall ranges 1,500 – 2,500 mm/yr. This is consistent withthe rainfall distribution in Fig. 2.1 which shows the project area falling between the isopleths2,032 mm/yr. and 2,540 mm/yr. with the site falling closer to the 2,032 mm/yr isopleth.

The 20 year National Meteorological Service mean monthly precipitation data shows themonths of June to October as having the highest rainfall (300 – 400 mm). There is in fact two(2) rainfall peaks: One in June/July and the other in September/October. The latter tends to bethe larger peak.

The driest months occurs between February and May with rainfall averages of less than 150mm. (King et al 1989).

2.2 Oceanography

2.2.1 Tides

The tides in Belize are semi-diurnal. The tidal amplitude in Belize, including the proposedproject site, is of the order of 0.5 M. These tides are modified however during the cold frontswhen the variation between high and low tide increases to about 0.8 M.

Another phenomenon affecting tidal amplitude in Belize and by extension the project area isthe ‘Equinox’ or ‘Sun’ Tides in September/October and February/March in any given year[Pers. comm., G. Myvett]. During these times the ‘migration’ of the Sun to and from thesouthern hemisphere has an additive effect on the tides, which are otherwise primarilydominated by the gravitational pull of the moon [Pers. comm., G. Myvett]. During these timesboth the high tides and low tides are higher than ‘normal’ [Pers. comm., G. Myvett]. Thesevariations may be on the order of 8 inches to 1 ft. The highest sun tides are experienced duringthe full moon and new Moon phases of the lunar cycle in which the high tide is referred to as“Higher High Water Spring Tide” or HHWS. During these times the low tide is referred to as

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Fig. 2.1: Rainfall distribution for Belize including the Project Site

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Fig. 2.2: Storm Surge Map of Belize including the Project Site

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“Higher Low Water Spring Tide” or HLWS. During the lower tidal cycle, which occursduring the 1st Quarter and 3rd or Last Quarter phase of the lunar cycle, the high tides arereferred to as “Higher High Water Neap Tide” or HHWN: The low tides are referred “HigherLow Water Neap Tide” of HLWN.

The sun tides can have a severe inundating or ‘flooding’ and erosional effect on low lyingareas such as the proposed project site. During the times of the Sun Tides and in markedlyrough sea states, much of the project site becomes inundated and waterlogged. The only areasthat are not inundated are the outer beach ridges circumscribing the windward eastern one-halfof the island and the northwestern shores.

2.2.2 Currents

The currents influencing the depositional and erosional processes of the proposed project siteare derived from both wind-driven and tidal sources. The wind driven currents are greater inmagnitude and are in general more influential in affecting the dynamics of the cayes and theecosystems of the surrounding waters. Wind driven currents in the area have been recorded bythe Tunich-Nah Field Survey Team in February and March 2007 at 1.5 - 2.3 knots at theimmediate sub-surface and 0.4 - 0.7 knots at a depth of 3 meters [See Table 2.6 formethodology employed].

The net littoral drift or current direction is in a south-easterly direction.

2.2.3 Water Temperature

Pusey has recorded water temperature near the Barrier Reef of 29º C in July and August of1961. Nunny et al (2001) cited sea surface temperatures in the south as ranging from 25 ْC inthe cooler months, to 31 ْ C in the warmer months. The temperature recorded in situ at theproject site by the Tunich-Nah Consultancy Team between February and April 2007 rangedfrom 25.3 ْC to 26.4 ْC [See Table 2.6 for methodology employed].

It should be noted that there were no temperature differences in regards to measurements takenat the surface versus those taken on the seafloor, up to a depth of 20 ft. This is an indicator ofthe complete mixing of surface waters with that in the lower portions of the water column.

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Fig. 2.3: Hydrographic profile of project area

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Fig. 2.4: Topography of Caye and Hydrography of surrounding seas of project site

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Fig. 2.5: Sample locations and Water Quality Test Results

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Fig. 2.6: Vegetation Map of Project Site

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Fig. 2.7: Eulittoral/Sub-tidal Habitat Map

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2.2.4 Salinity

Salinity varies across the Belize continental shelf in a north to south direction, as well asin an east to west direction. The variation in salinity along an east to west axis generallyshows higher salinities as one proceeds eastwards away from the mainland influences,which is a function of the decrease in riverine freshwater outflows.

Salinity measurements recorded by the Tunich-Nah Survey Team between February andApril 2007 was ‘oceanic’ in quality. Oceanic quality water has a salinity of 35 ppt [Pers.comm., G. Myvett]. The measurements recorded by the Tunich-Nah Survey Team for thegeneral area varied between 34.2 ppt and 37.1 ppt [See Figs. 2.5 and Table 2.6].

There was no significant difference between the salinities of the waters surrounding FalseCaye [See Fig. 2.5 Sample Locations 1 – 4] and the seas immediately off the shores ofthe Placencia Peninsula [See Fig. 2.5 Sample Locations 5 & 6].

In general it is surmised that oceanic quality conditions should prevail throughout theyear in the overall area given the nature of the biota observed in the area. The occurrenceof significant stands of reef building corals in the form of patch reef is an indicator of theoceanic quality nature of the environment exists in the waters around the caye, as well asin the nearshore waters of the peninsula.

2.2.5 Turbidity

The waters around False Caye were fairly turbid over the timeframe of the Tunich-NahSurvey between February and April 2007. TSS (Total Suspended Solid) ranged from 17to 41.8 ppm [See Fig. 2.5]. This may be as a consequence of relatively high planktonbiomass in the water column as well as carbonate sediments suspended in the watercolumn. The February 2007 sampling event by the Tunich-Nah Team would have beenduring the time-frame of heightened rains, which would increase nutrient concentration inthe water column and consequently primary and secondary productivity.

The ‘milky’ appearance of the water column is a function of the heavy sea states.Carbonate sediments are known to spontaneously precipitate from the water column inhighly saline seas. The re-suspension of this faction along with the re-suspension of finebiogenic sediments from the seafloor would contribute to the turbid nature of the water.

Visibility in the water column during the Tunich-Nah Field Survey from Feb. to April2007 ranged 20 – 30 ft. Under good visibility condition in Belize, water along the mainBarrier Reef and along the Atolls range 150 -200 ft.

The lack of more extensive reef development and the eroded health status of much of thereef building corals around False Caye may well be attributable to the heavy turbidity ofthe area.

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2.2.6 Total Coliform and E. coli

Both the Total Coliform and E.coli yielded readings of zero [See Fig. 2.5 and Annex V].These readings should be monitored over time, especially given the rapid development ofmajor hotels and resorts on the Placencia Peninsula, including in the vicinity of theproposed False Caye Development.

If indeed year-round monitoring proves that there are no pathogenic bacteria in the waterssurrounding the caye, this has positive implication for the development, especially inrelation to the sea-based recreational activities.

2.3 Biological Oceanography

The area of the project site is marked by three (3) of the most productive tropical marineecosystems, viz: mangrove forests, seagrass beds and coral reef [See Figs. 2.6 &2.7].These ecosystems are also known for their great diversity and flora.

The nutrient inputs from the outfall from riverine flows from the mainland would have anadditive effect on these ecosystems from the perspective of primary and secondaryproduction. This is seen from the diverse array and abundance of fauna in the area.

2.3.1 Flora and Fauna

2.3.1.1 Flora

False Caye has been characterized as most closely approximating a ‘Moat Island’ (afterStoddart, Fosberg and Spellman 1982). The caye typically has a windward shingle ridge,and interior low-lying depression and a leeward sandy area. These variations intopography are perhaps most accurately reflected in the forest types and vegetation forms[See Table 2.6 for methodology employed]. The higher shingle ridge forming on thesouthern perimeter and extreme north-eastern tip of the caye is characterized by a mixedmangrove and littoral forest [See Fig. 2.6]. The outer vegetation zone on the southwesternquadrant of the caye [See Fig. 2.6] was dominated by Red Mangroves (Rhizophoramangle) [See PL 2.10 & 2.11], while the south-eastern portion was dominated by BlackMangroves (Avicennia germinans) [See PL 20]. The ‘littoral forest’ component of thearea [See PL’s 2.17, 2.18 & 2.19] was found on the higher or supra-tidal reaches of thearea immediately landward of the fringing mangrove zone.

The lower leeward areas forming the north-western perimeter of the caye arecharacterized by mixed mangrove zone [See Fig. 2.6]. These are dominated by RedMangroves (Rhizophora mangle) and the Black Mangroves (Avicennia germinans),although the White Mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa) also occurs in discerniblequantities [See Table 2.1].

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The lowest portions or the caye were found in the interior and were either open-waterlagoonal areas [See PL 2.7], or inundated shallow areas dominated by dwarf RedMangroves (Rhizophora mangle) [See Pl’s 2.6 & 2.8] for the most part, and to a lesserextent the Black Mangroves (Avicennia germinans) [See PL 2.4]. It would seem that theareas dominated by Black Mangroves (Avicennia germinans) are only intermittentlyinundated, either by rain water during the rainy season, or during the high tide phase ofdaily cycles.

The storm damage done to the mangroves was as a consequence of the impact ofHurricane Iris in 2002 which devastated the general Placencia area. The trees, most ofwhich are still standing, saw their demise from the siltation wrought by heavy seas, anddefoliation as a consequence of the strong winds.

The littoral forest vegetation found on the caye included the Button Wood (Conocarpuserectus), the Gumbo Limbo (Bursera simaruba), the Black Poisonwood (Metopiumbrownei) and the Sea Grape (Coccolaba uvifera) [See Table 5.1].

The sub-tidal or wholly submerged aquatic flora around False Caye varied from simplenon-vascular forms to flowering plants [See Table 2.6 for methodology employed]. Theflowering plants were exclusively seagrasses, which existed in what is characterized asseagrass beds or meadows. The most abundant form is the Turtle Grass (Thallassiatestudinum) [See Table 2.1 A]. The Manatee Grass (Syringodium filiforme) [See Table2.1 A] occurred in discernible tufts in the nearshore waters off the southern and westernportions of the caye.

The other sub-tidal plant-life occurring in the project area included a number of macro-algal species [See Table2.1 A]. These included a number of Benthic Green Algae or“Chlorophyta” such as the Smooth Leather Fan Algae (Udotea flabellum), the ClumpHalimeda (Halimeda opuntia), the Shaving Bush Algae (Penicillus spp.) and the GreenClub Bubble Algae (Valonia macrophysa) [See Table 2.1 A]. A number of Brown Algaeor “Phaeophyta” were also present. These included the Brown Branched Algae (Dictyotadivaricata) and the ubiquitous floating form, Sargassum (Sargassum natans) [See Table2.1 A].

The Red Algae or ‘Rhodophyta’ found in the area were the Knobby Weed Algae(Laurencia intricata) and the Red Calcareous Algae (Amphiroa tribulus) [See Table 2.1A].

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Table 2.1: Aquatic and Terrestrial Vegetation Found in the Project AreaCommon Name Scientific Name Environment Source

&Abundance

SUB-TIDALSea GrassesManatee Grass Syringodium

filiformeNSA Occasional,

Patchy distributionTurtle Grass Thalassia

testudiniumNSA, WMA Abundant,

UbiquitousMacro-AlgaeGreen Algae orChlorophytaClump Halimeda Halimeda opuntia NSA, WMA Occasional

Random distributionSmooth Leather FanAlgae

Udotea flabellum NSA Rare, randomdistribution

Green Club BubbleAlgae

Valonia macrophysa NSA, WMA Rare, randomdistribution

Shaving BushAlgae

Penicillus spp. NSA Rare,Patchy distribution

Red Algae orRhodophytaKnobby WeedAlgae

Laurencia intricate NSA, WMA Rare, randomdistribution

Red CalcareousAlgae

Amphiroa tribulus NSA Occasional, patchydistribution

Brown Algae orPhaeophytaBrown BranchedAlgae

Dictyota divaricata NSA Occasional, patchydistribution

Ruffled BrownAlgae

Padina gymnospora WMA Rare, randomdistribution

Sargassum Sargassum natans NSA, WMA Occasional, randomdistribution

EMERGENTMangrovesRed Mangrove Rhizophora mangle CB Abundant

Definitive standsWhite Mangrove Laguncularia

racemosaCB Common, definitive

standsBlack Mangrove Avicennia

germinansCB Occasional, no

definitive standsMangrove Fern Acrostichum

aereumCB Occasional, no

definitive stands

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Common Name Scientific Name Environment Source&

AbundanceBlack Poisonwood Metopium brownei CB Occasional, no

definitive standsGumbo Limbo Bursera simaruba CB Occasional, no

definitive standsButtonwood Conocarpus erectus CB Common, random

distributionCoconut Cocos nucifera CB Occasional, no

definitive standsSilver Thatch Palm Thrinax radiata CB Occasional, no

definitive standsSea Grape Coccoloba uvifera CB Common, random

distributionBurr-burr Cenchrus echinatus CB Occasional, no

definitive stands

Key: NSA = Nearshore AreasWMA = Wider Marine AreasCB = Caye Based

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PL2.1 PL2.2

PL2.3 PL2.4

PL2.1: View of mid-western margins of caye looking east: note major gaps in canopycoverage and sparse foliage on trees in distal portion of frame – These are a consequenceof storm damage from Hurricane Iris…

PL2.2: View of lower western portion of caye looking north: note thickness of treetrunks, indicative of mature trees not given over to land clearing episodes…

PL2.3: View of channel leading from sea to small inner lagoon on northeastern portionof caye: note domination of Red Mangroves (Rhizophora mangle)…

PL2.4: View from lower southwestern margins of caye looking southeast: note sparsityand reduced height of trees in lower right quadrant of frame which is likely a function ofstorm damage from Hurricane Iris in 2003.

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PL2.5 PL2.6

PL2.7 PL2.8

PL2.5: Nearshore area of internal lagoon on north-eastern portions of caye: note rust redcoloration indicative of acid sulphate conditions of soils and pond bottom…

PL2.6: Expansive lagoonal area on central portion of caye: note patches of redmangroves (Rhizophora mangle) in central portions of lagoon…

PL2.7: View of internal lagoon or pond on northeastern portion of caye: note shallownature of area as indicate from ankle-high water as technician trudges to far bank…

PL2.8: View of northeastern reaches of internal lagoon on caye looking in south-westerlydirection: note reduced height and lateral growth of tree, indicative of dwarf growthforms.

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PL2.9 PL2.10

PL2.11 PL2.12

PL2.9: View of southwestern portion of False Caye: note uninterrupted ‘wall’ ofgreenery indicative of prolific growth, which is mainly red mangroves (Rhizophoramangle)…

PL2.10: Closer view of southwestern portion of caye: note heavy foliage of canopyindicative of marked recovery from storm damage and little or no human disturbance…

PL2.11: Close-up view of southwestern portion of False Caye: note colonization ofmangrove from land-proper into nearshore portions of seabed…

PL2.12: View of mangroves on southwestern fringes of False Caye looking north: noteturbid appearance of water, which was caused by heavy sea-state conditions and which isindicative of soft bottom characteristic of seafloor in the area.

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PL2.13 PL2.14

PL2.15 PL2.16

PL2.13: View of north-central tip of island looking east: Note domination by redmangroves (Rhizophora mangle)…

PL2.14: Close-up of north-central tip of caye: note rocky outcrops in mid-latitude offrame representing coral rubble deposited by stormy conditions, as well as dark blotchesbelow surface of water in foreground of frame indicating reef-building coral growth…

PL2.15: Close-up of mangroves on northern portion of caye: note tall mangroves in distalportion of frame representing mangroves that have recovered from storm damagewrought by Hurricane Iris in 2003…

PL2.16: Close-up of canopy of fringing mangroves on northern portion of caye: notedenuded and sparse coverage of much of branches and stems which are indicator of stormdamage by Hurricane Iris.

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PL2.17 PL2.18

PL2.19 PL2.20

PL2.17: Prominent sand ridge on lower south-western perimeter of caye…

PL2.18: Elements of littoral forest on beach ridge on lower south-western portion ofcaye: Note trunks of buttonwood (Conocarpus erectu) invaried horizontal and semi-vertical attitude, as well as orchid attached to trunk…

PL2.19: Elements of littoral forest on lower southwestern portion of caye: Note frondsfrom the Silver Thatch Palm (Thrinax radiata)…

PL2.20: Upper north-eastern portion of caye looking west: Note well-developed BlackMangrove (Avicennia germinans).

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PL2.21 PL2.22

PL2.23 PL2.24

PL2.21: Survey platform navigating mid-distance between False Caye and PlacenciaPeninsula…

PL2.22: Data collectors and captain of survey platform…

PL2.23: Fisherman berthed alongside Survey Platform for short interview…

PL2.24: Sprat used as bait-fish in fishing operations around False Caye.

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PL2.25 PL2.26

PL2.27 PL2.28

PL2.25: Gorgonian forms 50 m off mid-western shores of False Caye [See Sample Pt. ‘3’Fig. 2.5]: Note profusion of Bent Sea Rod (Plexaura flexuosa)….

PL2.26: Typical Hard bottom substrate off mid-western end of False Caye [See SamplePt. ‘3’ Fig. 2.5]: Note domination of soft coral Corky Sea Finger (Briareum asbestinum)in frame…

PL2.27: Eroded boulder coral ‘over-come’ or bio-fouled by encrusting sponge (bright tangrowth form) and the soft coral Corky Sea Finger (Briareum asbestinum): Vista of 3 mdepth of nearshore waters off mid-western point of Caye [See Sample Pt. ‘3’ Fig. 2.5]…

PL2.28: Vista of 4 m depth off mid-western tip of Caye [See Sample Pt. ‘3’ Fig. 2.5]:Note colonies of Corky Sea Finger (Briareum asbestinum) in foreground of frame andMustard Hill Coral (Porites asteroidea) in middle-ground.

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PL2.29 PL2.30

PL2.31 PL2.32

PL2.29: View of Tidal Channel at depth 4 – 4.5 m off mid-western end of False Caye[See Sample Pt. ‘3’ Fig. 2.5]: Note bare sandy area in centre of frame surrounded byvarious species of soft coral…

PL2.30: Underwater vista at 2 m depth off mid-western tip of False Caye [See SamplePt. ‘3’ Fig. 2.5]: Note well developed colony of Blade Fire Coral (Millepora complanata)in lower centre and right quadrant of frame…

PL2.31: Hard bottom habitat found off mid-western end of Caye [See Fig. 2.5, Sample Pt‘3’: Note coral rubble on seafloor…

PL2.32: Soft bottom habitat off southern tip of Caye: Note profusion of Turtle Grass inlower quadrant of frame [See Sample Pt. ‘2’ Fig. 2.5], also note rhizomes exposed fromgrass uprooted during Tunich-Nah Sample Survey in Feb. & March 2007.

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PL2.33: PL2.34

PL2.35 PL2.36

PL2.33: Soft bottom habitat found in nearshore waters off southern shores of Caye [SeeSample Pt. ‘2’ Fig. 2.5]: Note preponderance of Turtle Grass (Thalassia testudinium)…

PL2.34: Close-up of soft bottom habitat found in nearshore seas off southern shores ofcaye [See Sample Pt. ‘2’ Fig. 2.5]: Note Sun Anemone (Stichodactyla helianthus) incentre of frame…

PL2.35: Sun Anemone (Stichodactyla helianthus) in left upper quadrant of frame locatedon relic coral head which forms part of Patch Reef located off south-eastern shores ofCaye: Note Spiny Sea Urchin (Diadema antillarum) in recess below Sea Anemone…

PL2.36: Massive Starlet Coral (Siderastrea siderea) on left side of frame located onPatch Reef lying off south-eastern shores of Caye.

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2.3.1.2 Fauna

The waters of the proposed project site have a wide range of aquatic fauna which rangesfrom terrestrial forms, to semi-aquatic and wholly aquatic forms. The faunal assemblageof the area also varied greatly in evolutionary history and organizational complexity. Inregards to the latter the fauna included both invertebrate and vertebrate forms: Thevertebrates included four (4) of the five (5) phylogenetic classes of animals. Theseincluded, the fishes or class Pisces, the reptiles or class reptilia, the birds or class AVES,and the mammals or class mammalia. Although the Amphibians may have been present,they were not discovered or documented.

2.3.1.2.1 Invertebrates

The project area was characterized by the presence of a number of macro-invertebrates[See Table 2.6 for methodology employed]: Prominent among these were the crustaceansand molluscs. Familiar crustaceans encountered during the field survey or reportedotherwise were the Blue Land Crab (Cardisoma guanhumi), the Fiddler Crab (Aratuspisonii), the Blue Crab or ‘Ratti’ (Callinectes sapidus), and the Slipper Lobster (Scyllarusarctus) [See Table 2.2].

The molluscan forms were the most diverse and abundant macro-invertebrates found inthe nearshore waters of the caye. These included the Queen Conch (Strombus gigas), theHorse Conch (Pleuroplanca gigantea), the Faust Tellin (Acraphagia fausta) and theMangrove Oyster (Crassostrea rhizophorea) [See Table 2.2]. The Mangrove Oyster(Crassostrea rhizophorea) was visibly the most abundant Molluscan form.

The other invertebrate groups found in the area included the echinoderms and the corals.The echinoderms included the familiar Sea Star (Oreaster reticularis), as well as theDonkey Dung Sea Cucumber (Holothuria mexicana), and the Spiny Sea Urchin(Diadema antillarum) [See Table 2.2].

There were patch reef assemblages in the nearshore waters off the southwestern tip of theisland, as well as a couple hundred meters off the southern end of the island [See Fig.2.7]. Coral species included both stony corals or reef-building forms and soft corals. Thestony coral species included the Golf Ball Coral (Favia fragum), the Boulder Star Coral(Montastrea annularis), the Masive Starlet Coral (Siderastrea siderea) [See PL 2.36] andthe Finger Coral (Porites porites) [See Table 2.2].

The soft coral species included the Bent Sea Rod (Plexaura flexuosa) [See PL 2.25], theCorky Sea Finger (Briareum asbestinum) [See PL 2.28] and the Common Sea Fan(Gorgonia ventalina) [See Table 2.2].

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Table 2.2: Marine Macro-Invertebrates Found in and Around the Project AreaCommonName

ScientificName

ObservedDuring Survey

ReportedAnecdotally

Environment

CrustaceansBlue Land Crab Cardisoma

guanhumi☺ CB

Fiddler Crab Aratus pisonii ☺ CB

Blue Crab Callinectessapidus

☺ NSA

Stone Crab Menippemercenaria

☺ OSA

Spiny Lobster Panulirus argus ☺ OSA

Slipper Lobster Scyllarus arctus ☺ NSA

MolluscsQueen Conch Strombus gigas ☺ NSA, OSA

Horse Conch Pleuroplancagigantean

☺ NSA

Tulip Snail Fasciolariatulipa

☺ NSA

CommonAtlantic Vase

Vasummuricatum

☺ NSA, OFA

Tulip Shell Fasciolariatulipa

☺ NSA, OFA

Periwinkle Littorinaangulifera

☺ NSA

CommonAtlantic Bubble

Bulla striata ☺ NSA

Faust Tellin Acraphagiafausta

☺ NSA, OSA

CaribbeanThorny Oyster

Spondyluscaribaeum

☺ NSA, OFA

MangroveOyster

Crassostrearhizophorea

☺ MPR

Arc Shell Arca sp. ☺ NSA

EchinodermsBrittle Star Ophioderma

brevicaudum☺ NSA

Brittle Star Ophiodermaappressum

☺ NSA

Sea Urchin Tripneustesventricosus

☺ NSA, OSA

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CommonName

ScientificName

ObservedDuring Survey

ReportedAnecdotally

Environment

Spiny SeaUrchin

Diademaantillarum

Sea Star Oreasterreticularis

☺ NSA, OSA

Donkey DungSea Cucumber

Holothuriamexicana

☺ OSA

Donkey DungSea Cucumber

Holothuriamexicana

☺ OSA

CoralsStony CoralsGolf Ball Coral Favia fragum ☺ NSA, OFA

Knobby BrainCoral

Diploriaclivosa

☺ OFA

Boulder StarCoral

Montastreaannularis

☺ OFA

Finger Coral Porites porites ☺ NSA, OFA

Mustard HillCoral

Poritesasteroidea

☺ NSA

Elkhorn Coral Acroporapalmate

☺ OFA

MountainousStar Coral

Montastreafaveolata

☺ NSA, OFA

Massive StarletCoral

Siderastreasiderea

☺ NSA, OFA

Lettuce Coral Agariciaagaricites

☺ OFA

Blade FireCoral

Milleporacomplanata

☺ NSA

Soft CoralsCorky SeaFinger

Briareumasbestinum

☺ NSA,OFA

Common SeaFan

Gorgoniaventalina

☺ NSA

Soft Coral Plexauraflexuosa

☺ OFA

Rough SeaPlume

Muriceopsisflavida

☺ OFA

Black Sea Rod Plexaurahomomalla

☺ OFA

Key: OSA = Offshore Areas MPR = Mangrove Prop RootNSA = Nearshore Areas CB = Caye Based

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The stony corals were in general not in a good state of health; this was probably afunction of the highly turbid nature of the area.

2.3.1.2.2 Vertebrates

The vertebrate classes represented in the project area in terms of evolutionary progressionor organization complexity were: Pisces (Fishes), Reptilia (Reptiles), Aves (Birds), andMamalia (Mammals). The requisite details on these classes are as follows:

2.3.1.2.2.1 Fish

The fishes found in the project area were diverse [See Table 2.6 for methodologyemployed]. Although no biomass studies were done in relation to the current field survey,anecdotal evidence indicates that at one time the area was fairly productive for fin-fishes[Pers. comm. I. Garcia]. Historically, sustained and heavy fishing pressures by citizensfrom the neighboring Seine Bight community have decimated stocks to the extent that anumber of species are no longer present in the area, and a number of the ones that remainare there in reduced numbers [Pers. comm.., I. Garcia]. The observation was also madethat the adult stocks that were observed during four (4) consecutive underwaterexpeditions were markedly diminished in sizes [Pers. comm.., I. Garcia].

The fishes of the project area reflected the full range of feeding ecology and energy flowcharacteristic of photo-synthetically driven ecosystems. The species assemblage includedgrazers and herbivorous browsers such as the Ocean Surgeonfish (Acanthurus bahianus)the Spotfin Butterflyfish (Chaetodon capistratus), and the Bucktooth Parrotfish(Sparisoma radians) [See Table 2.3]. Carnivorous benthivores included the QueenTriggerfish or ‘Old Wife’ (Balistes vetula), the Scrawled Cowfish (Lactophrysquadricornis), and Hog Fish (Lachnolaimus maximus) [See Table 2.3].

The zooplanktivore of note occurring in the area is the Scaled Herring or Sprat(Harengula clupeola) [See Table 2.3].

Mid-range or intermediate predators were mainly piscivores feeding on small andmedium sized stock. These included species such as: the Crevalle Jack (Caranx hippos),the Cero Mackerel (Scomberomorus regalis), and the Permit (Trachinotus falcatus) [SeeTable 2.3].

The apex predators occurring in the area included: the Barracuda (Sphyraena baracuda),the Bull Shark (Carcharhinus leucas) and the Tarpon (Megalop atlanticus) [See Table2.3].

Most of the species encountered or reported were reflective of the high salinity status ofthe waters surrounding the caye. These stenohaline stocks included: the Mackerel(Scomberomorus maculatus), the Plumed Scorpionfish (Scorpaena grandicornis) and theLongspined Squirrelfish (Holocentrus rufus) [See Table 2.3].

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Table 2.3: Fish Species Found in Project AreaCommon Name Scientific Name Captured

orObserved

Reported(Anecdotally)

Environment

Scaled Herring orSprat

Harengulaclupeola

☺ NSA, OFA

Tarpon Megalopatlanticus

☺ OFA

White Mullet(Mullet)

Mugil curema ☺ NSA

Blackfin Snapper(Black Snapper)

Lutjanusbuccanella

☺ NSA, OSA

Gray Snapper Lutjanus griseus ☺ NSA

Dog Snapper Lutjanus joco ☺ NSA, OSA

Lane Snapper Lutjanus synagris ☺ OSA

Silk Snapper Lutjanus vivanus ☺ NSA, OSA

Yellowtail Snapper Ocyuruschrysurus

☺ OSA

Crevalle Jack(Jack Cuballi)

Caranx hippos ☺ OSA

Atlantic Look Down Selene vomer ☺ NSA, OSA

Permit Trachinotusfalcatus

☺ NSA, OSA

Mackerel(Spanish Mackerel)

Scomberomorusmaculatus

☺ OSA

Barracuda Sphyraenabarracuda

☺ NSA, OSA

Goliath Grouper Epinephelusitajara

☺ NSA, OSA

Red Hind (JimmyHind)

Epinephelusguttatus

☺ OSA

Blue Striped Grunt Haemulon sciurus ☺ NSA, OSA

Caesar Grunt Haemuloncarbonarium

☺ NSA

White Grunt Haemulonplumieri

☺ NSA, OSA

Nurse Shark Ginglymostomacirratum

☺ NSA, OSA

Caribbean ReefShark

Carcharhinusperezi

☺ OSA

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Common Name Scientific Name Capturedor

Observed

Reported(Anecdotally)

Environment

Bull Shark Carcharhinusleucas

☺ OSA

Sting Ray(Tingre)

DasyatisAmericana

☺ NSA, OSA

Eagle Ray Aetobatusnarinari

☺ OSA

Striped Parrotfish Cryptotomusroseus

☺ NSA, OSA

Bucktooth Parrotfish Sparisomaradians

☺ NSA, OSA

Ocean Surgeonfish Acanthurusbahianus

☺ NSA, OSA

Plumed Scorpionfish Scorpaenagrandicornis

☺ OSA

Needle Fish(Long Guard)

Strongyluranotata

☺ NSA

Scrawled Cowfish Lactophrysquadricornis

☺ NSA, OSA

Queen Triggerfish(Old Wife)

Balistes vetula ☺ OSA

Cero Mackerel(Mackerel)

Scomberomorusregalis

☺ OSA

Hog Fish Lachnolaimusmaximus

☺ NSA, OSA

Cobia (Cabeo) Rachycentroncanadus

☺ OSA

LongspinedSquirrelfish

Holocentrus rufus ☺ OSA

Porgy Calamusbajonado

☺ NSA, OSA

Spotfin Butterflyfish Chaetodoncapistratus

☺ NSA

Key: NSA = Nearshore AreasOSA = Offshore Areas

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2.3.1.2.2.2 Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Reptiles and Mammals

Only one (1) species of semi-aquatic reptiles was reported in the area: This was theAmerican Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) [Pers. comm., I. Garcia]. This reptile howeverwas not encountered during the Tunich-Nah Field Survey which encompassed the periodFebruary to April 2007. The crocodile was reported to inhabit both the caye and thesurrounding seas. The animal was reported to inhabit the natural channel at thenortheastern end of the caye [See Fig. 2.6]. There have been no current or recentobservations of the species in the area [Pers. comm., I. Garcia].

Although there have been no documented sightings of the West Indian Manatee(Trichechus manatus) in any of the CZMA/I Reports in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s,fishermen from Seine Bight have reported the aquatic mammal in the area [Pers. comm.,I. Garcia]. The other aquatic mammal that has been sighted in the area from time to timehas been the Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) [See Table 2.4].

The presence of both the manatee and dolphin in the area is understood from theperspective of the area providing foraging sustenance and a respite in the range of thespecies. The range and abundance of fin-fishes and macro-invertebrates as a source offood would be relevant to the presence of the Bottle-nose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus),whereas the seagrass and mangrove embayments would be relevant to the foraging needsand other life history function of the manatee, such as calving.

Table 2.4: Aquatic and Semi-aquatic Reptiles and Mammals occurring in the project areaCommonName

Scientific Name ObservedDuringSurvey

ReportedAnecdotally

Environment

Aquatic andSemi-aquaticReptilesAmericanCrocodile

Crocodylusacutus

☺ CB, NSA

AquaticMammals

West IndianManatee

Trichechusmanatus

☺ NSA, OSA

Bottle-noseDolphin

Tursiopstruncatus

☺ OSA

Key:NSA = Nearshore AreasOSA = Offshore AreasCB = Caye Based

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2.3.1.2.2.3 Birds

The field survey by the Tunich-Nah in Mar. 2007 yielded 27 species of Birds [See Table2.5]. This represents by no means the total range of species inhabiting the area, but is a‘snap shot’ of those present during a particular time of the year, and indeed a particulartime of the day, since the later ‘p.m.’ hours were not covered during the survey [SeeTable 2.6 for methodology employed].

The bird species documented is an indication of the species ‘richness’ of the area: Thespecies portfolio includes ‘indicator’ species that are relevant to the geographic extentand quality of certain habitat types: This should be relevant during the monitoring phaseof the proposed undertaking.

The species documented in the area by the Tunich-Nah Team were mainly wetland fowlsand seabirds, although there were a number of woodland species and ubiquitous andopportunistic forms. The latter included the Great-Tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus)and the Melodious Blackbird (Dives dives) [See Table 2.5]. Woodland species included:the White Crowned Pigeon (Columba leucocephala), the Golden Fronted Woodpecker(Melanerpes aurifrons) and the Flycatcher (Empidomax sp.) [See Table 2.5].

Littoral Forest species such as the Mangrove Vireo (Vireo pallens) and the MangroveWarbler (Dendroica petechia) were also present at the site. Typical seabirds included theBrown Pelican (Pelicanus occidentalis), the Laughing gull (Larus atricilla), theNeotropic Cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) and the Frigate Bird (Fregatamagnificens) [See Table 2.5].

The wetland birds occurring in the project area included the Great Blue Heron (Ardeaherodias), the Great Egret (Ardea alba), and the Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) [SeeTable 2.5].

Sixteen (16) of the species documented on the Caye were ‘residents’, three (3) were‘winter residents’, four (4) ‘visitors’, three (3) ‘winter migrants’ and one (1) seasonalresident.

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Table 2.5: Birds Found in and Around the Project AreaCommon name Scientific name Habitat Seasonality Abundance

Brown Pelican Pelecanusoccidentalis

Sea Resident Verycommon

NeotropicCormorant

Phalacroraxbrasilianus

Sea Resident common

Anhinga Anhinga anhinga lagoon Visitor Verycommon

MagnificentFrigatebird

Fregatamagnificens

Sea Resident Verycommon

Great Egret Ardea alba lagoon &mangrove

Visitor uncommon

Snowy Egret Egretta thula Lagoonmangrove

Visitor Uncommon

Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea Lagoon Winterresident

common

Green Heron Butoridesvirescens

mangroves Resident common

White Ibis Eudocimus albus mangrove &lagoons

Visitor uncommon

Wood Stork Mycteriaamericana

lagoons Resident uncommon

CommonBlackhawk

Buteogallusanthracinus

mangrove &lagoons

Resident Uncommon

Black BelliedPlover

Pluvialissquatarola

beach Winterresident

Uncommon

Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia lagoon & beach Winterresident

Common

Laughing gull Larus atricilla sea Resident Verycommon

White CrownedPigeon

Columbaleucocephala

mangrove &littoral forest

Seasonalresident only

Common

CinnamonHummingbird

Amazilia rutila beach Resident Common

Green BreastedMango

Anthracothraxprevostii

coastline Resident uncommon

Golden FrontedWoodpecker

Melanerpesaurifrons

coastline Resident Common

Flycatcher Empidomaxspecies

Mangrove vireo Vireo pallens mangrove Resident Uncommon

Yucatan vireo Vireo magister mangrove Resident Verycommon

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Common name Scientific name Habitat Seasonality Abundance

Black Catbird(Mockingbird)

Melannoptilaglabriostris

Littoral forest Resident uncommon

Parulidae (WoodWarblers)Yellow Warbler Dendroica

petechiaMangrove, lowscrub

winter migrant Common

Magnolia Warbler Dentroicamagnolia

mangrove winter migrant Common

NorthernWaterthrush

Sieurusnoveboracensis

Mangrove andlittoral forest

winter migrant Common

Icteridae(Blackbirds)MelodiousBlackbird

Dives dives Coastal Resident Common

Great-TailedGrackle

Quiscalusmexicanus

Coastal andcayes

Resident common

Key: M = MigrantR = ResidentT = Transient[O] = Observed[RP] = ReportedSBDB = Sea Based Diving BirdAVSF = Aerial Visitor Surface ForagerCBWB = Caye Based Wading BirdCBSF = Caye Based Shoreline ForagerCBCF = Caye Based Canopy ForagerCBNC = Caye Based Nesting Colony

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2.4 Conservation Issues

2.4.1 Endangered Species of Special Significance

A number of endangered species have been identified in Belize based on the Red DataBook of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Relevant speciesare the West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) and the American Crocodile(Crocodilus acutus).

The West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) has also been listed asendangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and vulnerable to extinction by IUCN.They species is also protected under the CITES Regulations where it has been placed onAppendix I of the ‘Species List’.

Although manatees are known to inhabit the project area, no site specific census has beenundertaken. Thus the role of the waters around the caye has not been qualified in relationto its utility to the life history of the animal. This may well be an element that should beattended in the monitoring phase of the project, if it is approved by the NEAC.

On the national front the American Crocodile (Crocodilus acutus) is protected by theWildlife Protection Act, which prohibits any hunting or collection otherwise of theseanimals. The crocodile also falls under the CITES Regime on international trade: In thisregard it is listed in Appendix II of the CITES Regulations.

There is no development activity within the context of the proposed project tosignificantly modify, erode, eliminate or alter any habitat, or foraging and calving areafor the manatee or the crocodiles.

2.4.2 Protected Areas

There is no Marine Protected Area within the vicinity of False Caye. The nearest cayebased MPA (Marine Protected Area) is the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve: This lies 9 kmto the northeast of the project site. The next nearest MPA is the Laughing Bird CayeNational Monument: This area lies 12 km to the southeast of the proposed project site.

The proposed developmental activities on False Caye should in no way impact theGladden Spit Marine Reserve or the Laughing Bird Caye National Monument:.

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2.5 Geology

2.5.1 Regional Geology

There are three (3) major structural entities in Belize (Rao & Ramanathan 1988). Theseare:

the Corozal Basin north of the Maya Mountains which represents the easterncontinuation of the Peten Basin in northern Guatemala;

a central Maya Block of Paleozoic igneous and metamorphic rock; a Belize Basin that borders the Maya Block offshore to the east and onshore

and offshore to the south, which is a continuation of the southern part of thePeten Basin.

The Corozal Basin is functionally a part of the Yucatan Platform. The Yucatan Platformis underlain by low and flat-lying carbonates of Cenozoic age [James and Ginsburg1979]. This Cenozoic limestone is overplaid by a yoke of coastal plain sediments thatincludes Tertiary deposits in the east and some portions of the north [James and Ginsburg1979].

The Maya Mountains are a part of the ‘Sierras’ of northern Central America. The MayaMountains are a rugged area comprising of un-metamorphosed to slightlymetamorphosed late Paleozoic Sedimentary Rocks and granitic intrusions [James andGinsburg 1979].

A number of the onshore geological features of the country are shown in Figs. 2.8 &2.10.

In relation to coastal Belize, the Continental Shelf of Belize has been divided into anumber of hydrographic provinces by Purdy (1966). The outer-most ridges or shoal at theedge of the continental shelf is the area within which much of the seaward-most caye arelocated: This area has been referred to technically as the Barrier Platform [See Fig. 2.9].

The area of the Continental Shelf running from the back-reef to the eastern shores of thefirst line of cayes, proceeding from a seaward direction, has been referred to by Purdy(1975) as the Barrier Lagoon. The waters between this line of cayes and the mainlandhave been referred to by Purdy (1975) as the Shelf lagoon. Purdy has sub-divided theselagoonal systems on the basis of a Northern Shelf Lagoon and a Southern Shelf lagoon –the dividing point being at the Belize river delta in Belize City. The Northern ShelfLagoon running from Belize City to San Pedro and including the Chetumal Bay isrelatively shallow with depths not exceeding three (3) fathoms [See Fig. 2.9]. TheSouthern Shelf Lagoon runs from the Belize City latitude in a southerly direction to theend of the Barrier Reef [See Fig. 2.9].

The Northern Shelf lagoon is shallow and flat, being interrupted by relic drainage channeland sinkholes caused by Pleistocene erosion (Purdy 1974; Scott 1966). One such channel

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is the English Caye or Eastern Channel, which makes a deep undulated cut of about 30meters in depth through the Barrier platform. This Channel represents the relic or‘drowned’ streambed of either the Sibun River or the Haulover Creek. The depth of theNorthern Shelf Lagoon is generally less than 5 m.

The southern Shelf Lagoon is generally greater in depth than the Northern Shelf Lagoon.This is in fact one of the more significant distinguishing features of the two (2) systems.The water depth is known to exceed 46 m in the southern portions of the Southern ShelfLagoon (Purdy 1974).

The northern portions of the Southern shelf Lagoon are devoid of carbonate shoals. Thesouthern portions of the lagoon however are characterized by a multiplicity of carbonateshoals which includes ‘shelf atolls’. These barrier lagoon atolls are characterized by steepwalls ascending from the depths and their ‘rhomboid’ shape or contours.

False Caye is located just north of the Placencia Peninsula in the vicinity of Seine BightVillage: The area in effect is geographically located in the Southern Shelf Lagoon [SeeFig. 2.9].

2.5.2 Structural Geology

False Caye lies 1.0 mile north of the Placencia Peninsula at its nearest approaches to themainland: This occurs just northwest of the longitude of Seine Bight Village.

The Placencia Peninsula is comprised of alluvial deposits of the late Pleistocene and theHolocene, including the present [See Fig. 2.10]. Although no site-specific academicefforts have been convened on False Caye, preliminary observations indicate that thecaye has some common geological features with the peninsula. The Caye comprises ingeneral Holocene sedimentary deposits on pre-existing Holocene highs. The Tunich-NahFebruary to April 2007 field survey has discovered that the thickness of Holocenesediments varied from 27 ft. 8 ins. to greater than 40 ft. [See Annex VIII]. These resultsare comparable to experiences encountered by Purdy and Gischler (2003) at other cayebased locations in Belize [See Table 2.6 for methodology employed].

There is no evidence of faulting at the proposed project site. The nearest faultingstructure is a ‘Thrust fault’ the nearest approach of which lies 9 miles to the northeast.[See Fig. 2.8]. This fault is not active.

2.5.3 Geomorphology

2.5.3.1 Surficial Geology

False Caye is a mix of permanently inundated internal lagoons, a prominent sand andrubble ridge circumscribing the southwestern portion of the caye, with intertidalmangrove forming the southeastern quadrant of the caye. There are also some prominent

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PL2.37 PL2.38

PL2.39 PL2.40

PL 2.37: Soil sampling endeavor in nearshore seas off northeastern shores of FalseCaye…

PL2.38: Close-up of soil sampling operation: Note use of Soil Augur…

PL 2.39: On-shore soil sampling activity on southwestern reaches of False Caye…

PL 2.40: Extracted augur sample from nearshore environment.

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mud-flats in the northeastern quadrant of the caye as well as in the mid-latitude justlandward of the eastern shores [See Fig. 2.6].

The general contour of the caye with a prominent rubble and sand ridge on the windwardsides with lowlands and permanently inundated lagoonal areas has resulted in thegeological classification of the area as a ‘Moat Island’. This derives from a scheme ofclassification advanced by Stoddart, Fosberg and Spellman (1982). In this scheme 11types of cayes were identified in Belize.

The caye is sickle-shaped with the long axis running in a north/south direction [See Fig.2.6]. The north-eastern portion of the caye forms a prominent elongate protuberance or‘pan handle’, with its long axis in an east/west direction [See Fig. 2.6]. The distal tip ofthis protuberance is an exposed headland with an accumulation of rubble in the form ofmedium-sized coral boulders, pebbles and sand [See Table 2.6 for methodologyemployed]. This area has been labeled ‘Mixed Mangrove and Littoral Forest’ in Fig. 2.6.

A pronounced cuspate bay dominates the mid-latitudes on the eastern side of the caye[See Fig. 2.6]: This area is dominated by Red Mangroves (Rhizophora mangle) which isanchored on a mixture of silty sand and dark anoxic mud [See Fig. 2.6]. Theunconsolidated mucky component dominates this area and the perimeter of the internallagoonal areas of the caye, as well as the lagoon floor itself [See Fig. 2.6].

The entire northwestern quadrant and most of the northern perimeter of the caye wasdominated by what has been characterized as mixed mangroves [See Fig. 2.6]. This areawas generally ‘emergent’ land with elevation of 1.0 m above mean sea level (MSL). Thesubstrate in this area was a mix of terrigenous humus, silty sand and coarse calcareoussand and fine coral rubble.

2.5.3.2 Supra-tidal and Sub-tidal Features

It has been theorized that False Caye has been developed on pre-existing Holocene‘high’. The waters off the southern and western side of the caye fall into deep waterrelatively quickly [See Transects ‘3’, ‘4’, ‘5’ & ‘6, Fig2.3]. The seafloor off the easternportion of the caye was gently sloping with extensive shallow areas being encounteredfor a significant distance from the shore [See Transect 1, Fig. 2.3]

The highest portion of the caye is the southwestern quadrant which averaged 1.0 m abovemean sea level [See Fig. 2.4]. This elevation was also seen on the extreme northeasterntip of the caye [See Fig. 2.4]. The average elevation of much of the southeast quadrant ofthe caye that is dominated by red mangroves is 0.5 m above MSL [See Fig. 2.4]

Much of the depth of the central lagoonal system is 0.5 m below MSL however themaximum depth encountered was 2.6 m below MSL [See Fig. 2.4].

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Much of the inundated dwarf mangrove forest occupying the internal lagoonal systemwas located in waters much less than 1.0 m in depth [See Fig. 2.6 and PLs 2.6 & 2.8].

2.5.4 Local Area Geology

The geology of the site reflects both terregenous and marine influences [See Table 2.6 formethodology employed]. The terregenous components are reflective of mainland derivedhumus and silicate gravel which is seen in the higher elevations on the southwesternportions of the caye and which supports much of the littoral forest elements [See Fig. 2.6and PLs 2.18 & 2.19]. This is a function of the cyclical progression and retreat of sea-level where terrestrial influences in relation to sedimentary processes increases inmagnitude with the retreat in sea-level.

The majority of the surficial sedimentary features of False Caye are marine in orientation.These include mangrove peat and anoxic mud, coralgal sand and coral rubble rangingfrom coarse pebbles to medium sized boulders [See PLs 2.38 & 2.40].

The mangrove peat and anoxic mud was associated with those areas dominated by redmangroves, as well as those areas characterized as ‘regrowth’ mangroves [See Fig. 2.6].The area characterized as ‘mixed mangroves’ in Fig. 2.6 was also indicative of peaty andanoxic mulch soils. Much of the coral rubble and coralgal sand was restricted to therelative high beach ridge on the southwestern quadrant of the caye, as well as the extremenortheastern tip which were colonized by littoral forests [See Fig. 2.6].

The coralgal component of the sediments is functionally a mix of contributions from bothcalcareous macroalgae and the test, shell or hard skeletal component of a host ofinvertebrate fauna. The latter was heavily influenced by coral fragments and molluscanshell and tests. The algal component of sand was heavily influenced by the completeblades and eroded portions thereof of the macro-algae Halimeda spp.,: This faction isgenerally referred to as Halimeda Sand.

Although there are significant portions of the higher beach ridges that are discernibly‘sandy’, there is no definitive sandy beach on False Caye [See Fig. 2.6]. This is largely afunction of topography, wave energy conditions and the composition of the seafloor.

The marine influences of the caye may be discerned from the high salinities of thesurrounding seas [See Fig. 2.5], as well as the coral and seagrass dominated seafloor [SeeFig. 2.7], which are known to thrive in high salinity oceanic quality environments.

2.5.5 Soils

False Caye, like most other caye locations, save for Ambergris Caye, has not beenincluded in the agriculture suitability survey convened by King et al in the early 1990’s.This endeavor included a comprehensive assessment of the soils on mainland Belize.

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Thus the soils of the proposed project site have not been systematically assessed by anyknown previous efforts.

The grain size analysis done for the caye shows that the soils on the northeastern tip ofthe caye is a mix of gravel with very minor constituent of sand [See Table 2.6 formethodology employed]. This is consistent with the location being an exposed headland,subject to high wave energy conditions with the consequent deposition of coarse grainedand unsorted coral rubble [See Sample #1 Annex VI and Annex VIII]. The sediments ofthe north-central portion of the caye were characterized by poorly graded sand and gravel[See Sample #2 Annex VI and Annex VIII]. The increasing contribution of fine andmedium grade sediments is characteristic of mangrove dominated soils [See PL 2.40].

The sediments of the western margins of the caye were characterized as more evenlygraded sand with a significant component of fine and coarse gravel [See Sample #3Annex VI and Annex VIII]. The roughly 20% component of fine and coarse gravel isreflective of the beach berm environment where there is a significant contribution ofcoral rubble.

The lagoonal environment on the caye corresponds with sample #4. The increase in thefiner sedimentary components [See Sample #4 Annex VI and Annex VIII] isunderstandable given the mangrove dominated nature of the surrounding landscape andthe low energy conditions of the lagoonal system. The mangrove leaf litter makes themost significant contribution to the finer sediments.

The increase in the medium and coarse sand component [See Sample #5 Annex VI andAnnex VIII] is reflective of the lower reaches of the beach ridge environment. Thissample was taken from the leeward or lagoonal side of the berm environment.

The increase in the coarse sand and gravel component [See Sample #6 Annex VI andAnnex VIII] is reflective of the higher reaches of the beach berm environment. This is thearea dominated by littoral forest [See Fig. 2.6].

As noted in the Geotechnical Report detailed in Annex VIII the soils have very little loadbearing capacity and as such all substantive standing structures must be supported onpiles anchored in the bedrock of the caye.

It should be noted that no Perculation Tests were done on the soils. This has beensurmised to be redundant since firstly most of the soils are saturated, and secondly thereare no plans to use septic tanks or other waste treatment systems that would require aleach field.

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Fig. 2.8: Geological Fault Location Map

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Fig. 2.9: Hydrographic Provinces of Belize

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Fig. 2.10: Stratigraphic profiles of Belize

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Fig. 2.11: Archaeological Transects on False Caye showing location of Archaeologicalmound found on western side of Caye.

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2.6 Archaeology

The project site was systematically mapped for archaeological remains [See Table 2.6 formethodology employed]. This included the discovery of evidence from the Pre-Colombian civilization, the post-Colombian Historic Period, and any other artifactdeemed as relevant under the NICH Act, Chapter 331 Revised Edition 2000 [See AnnexX].

The mapping of the island entailed the placement of twenty five transect lines with aspacing of 100 meters. Fifteen (15) of these transects ran in a general north/southdirection, while five (5) ran in an east/west direction and five(5) ran along the periphery of the island [See Fig. 1.11].

The archaeological evidence on False Caye was extremely limited: It was confined to onesingle mound with a few eroded pottery sherds and some “geofacts” (rocks) that weremost likely imported and placed on site [See Annex X].

The mound was located on the A 19 transect (GPA coordinates E 356906 N 1835657)approximately 100 m from the western shores of the caye [See Fig. 2.11].

The mound is approximately one meter high by five to six meters long and is constructedof badly pitted and eroded coral stones. This makes it hard to date the site, however onthe basis of a comparative analysis it is likely that the limited activities that occurred onthe caye coincided with the up surge of activities that occurred at other sites along thecoast of Belize [See Annex X].

Archaeological evidence from Marco Gonzalez site on Ambergris Caye suggests that theMaya occupied the island as early as the Pre-classic period (100 BC – 250 AD). Theseareas continued to be occupied following the Pre-classic period (100 BC – 250 AD) andmore so into the Classic (AD 250 – AD 1000) and Post-classic, (AD 1000 – 1500) whenthere seemed to have been a dramatic surge and shift of population towards coastal areas,as coastal activities increased (Guderjan 1989, 1990, 1995, 1996), (McKillop 1987, 1994,1996, 2004), (Graham 1987, 1994, 1988) [See Annex X].

2.7 Data Collection Methodology

The methodologies employed in characterizing the bio-physical environment variedgreatly and was in large measure dependent on the subject area in question. Themethodologies employed have been outlined in Table 2.6 below

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Table 2.6: Summary of methodologies employed in characterization of bio-physical environmentSubject Purpose Methodology Output

Fin-fishcharacterization

Census range of species in projectarea.

Snorkel survey of 10 sets of 100 m transectsin areas of fringing reefs off northern end ofcaye and south-eastern end of island, as wellas patch reef off southwestern end of caye[See Fig. 2.7]…Seagrass beds off mid-eastern end of caye as well as fringingmangrove root system off mid-western endof caye also a focus of survey [See Fig.2.7]…In situ census complimented byinterviews of fishermen using area andresidents of Seine Bight Village andcommunity along roadway west of village.

List of species andenvironment in whichfound outlined in Table2.3…Output qualitativein orientation.

Invertebratecharacterization

Census of range of epi-benthic macro-invertebrates.

Snorkel survey of 10 sets of 100 m transectsin areas of fringing reefs off northern end ofcaye and south-eastern end of island, as wellas patch reef off southwestern end of caye[See Fig. 2.7]…Seagrass beds off mid-eastern end of caye as well as fringingmangrove root system off mid-western endof caye also a focus of survey [See Fig. 2.7].

Listing of species andnature of environment inwhich found outlined inTable 2.1…Outputqualitative inorientation.

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Subject Purpose Methodology Output

Bird survey To document the range of speciesusing the area in the daylight hours aswell as during the late evening andearly mornings.

The survey was conducted using thestandard point count monitoring techniquesusing recently cleared transects on thecaye…Birding began 06:00hrs and ended at18:00hrs…The investigator used an 8x40Ranger Eagle Optics binocular to identifythe birds…A single person Ocean kayakwas used to circumnavigate the island andaccess a channel that lead into the lagoon onthe caye…All field observations were crossreferenced for distribution and seasonalityusing the Birds of Belize Checklist and fieldguide produced by H. Lee Jones.

List of species andecological statusoutlined in Table 2.5.

Characterization ofseafloor

To map various habitat-types ofseafloor in terms of whether hard, softor mixed, and dominant flora or faunasuch as coral reef, seagrass beds,denuded bottom-type etc.

Google aerial photographs complimented by‘ground truthing’…Ground truthing entailssnorkel survey of 8 transects 100 m inlength targeting the fringing reefs off thenorthern end of the island, as well asseagrass beds off mid-eastern and lowerwestern ends of the caye [See Fig.2.7]…Snorkeling survey also entailedecological census of fringing reef offsoutheastern end of caye, as well as patchreef off southwestern end of island [See Fig.2.7].

Habitat map and photo-documentation ofvarious habitats [SeeFig. 2.7 and PLs 2.25 –2.36].

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Subject Purpose Methodology Output

Caye-basedvegetationmapping

Mapping of vegetation zones andenumeration of species.

Google aerial photographs complimented by‘ground truthing’ and definitive speciesinventory…Species inventory entailsstrategic traversing of caye and examinationof specimens.

Listing of emergentspecies in Table 2.1 andphoto-documentationlaid out in PLs 2.1 –2.20

HydrographicProfile

Detailed profile of benthos which is ofrelevance in regards to navigationalsafety, the sourcing of dredged spoilsand habitat characterization.

Use of echo sounder affixed to boathull/floating platform [See PLs 2.21 &2.22]…Path traversed is 7 transects ofvarying lengths, depending on access todeeper waters [See Fig. 2.3].

Profiles and contourmaps shown in Figs. 2.3& 2.4.

Water qualitycharacterization

Determination of physico-chemicaloceanography of area to informjudgements and opinions of flora andfauna occurring in the area.

Entails both in situ measurements and thetaking of samples for offsite laboratoryanalysis…In situ measurements entailsdeployment of Hydro-lab and thedeterminations of salinity, DO andtemperatures from six (6) locations [SeeFig. 2.5]…Laboratory determination ofvarious other parameters undertaken by.

Enumeration of valuesfro various parameterslisted in Fig. 2.5].

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Subject Purpose Methodology Output

Geology and soilcharacterization

Determination of depth of bedrock andvertical profile of strata laid downover geological time-scale.

Taking of core samples down to bedrock byATA Laboratories under the supervision ofYEC… A drive weight assembly consistingof a metal hammer, hammer fall guide,anvil and hammer release system is used todrive a standard sized probe into the soil.The hammer is dropped by free fall from aspecific height in order to impart aconsistent amount of energy to the probe,and the distance the probe moves throughthe soil is recorded [See Annex VIII]. Theso-called “N-Value” is the number of blowsneeded to drive the probe over the depthinterval of 6 inches. This gives an indicationof the resistance of the soil, which can thenbe correlated to bearing behavior of the soilfor foundation design.

‘Refusal Depth’ orbedrock determined asoutlined in Annex VIII.

To test percolation rates in relation toabsorbing effluents from septic tankand other possible treatmenttechnologies for human and domesticwastes as well as engineering designconcerns such load bearing capacity.

Soil was manually sampled at severallocations to enable a determination of thesoil types present on site [See AnnexVIII]…This also assists in correlating SF1blow counts to the bearing capacity of thesoils encountered.

Soil samples retrievedindicates that soil profileis consistent from thesurface down well pastdepths for shallowfoundations, and aretypically saturatedorganic silt with varyingamounts of sand mixedin as shown in AnnexVIII.

2-50

Subject Purpose Methodology Output

Archaeology To determine if there is any artifact ofarchaeological value at the projectsite.

The methodology employed entailed severalvisits to the Institute of Archaeology toreview and assess the archaeologicalrecords on files and to collect any relevantback ground information from maps,literature and publications…This wasfollowed by several site visits to physicallyconduct archaeological reconnaissance andsurveys to specifically… To insure that theentire island was fully examined, a series ofsome twenty five transect lines were cut,each with a spacing of 100 meters fromeach other for the most apart…Fifteen ofthese transects ran in a general north southorientation, five ran in an east west directionand five ran along the periphery of theisland [See Fig. 2.11]…All transectlocations were plotted and recorded by useof a GPS.

Discovery of a smallisolated prehistoricmound…The moundwas identified andpositioned as being onthe western shoreline ofthe island atapproximately 100 (onehundred) meters fromthe shore line…Themound is located atGPA E 356906 N1835657 [See Annex X].