Sam Gray Boulder, Colorado graduated from college in 2013 with degrees in economics and international affairs. He then continued to earn his certification as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher. He is now a member of the Peace Corps and is stationed in El Limon in the Dominican Republic. His current project involves helping the local fishermen develop an ecotourism business. Their goal is to lead regular kayaking tours around Laguna Limon, and develop their community’s economy. Laguna Limon is a special area in the Dominican Republic that is bursting with natural beauty.
A Laguna is a body of water that is cut off from a larger body of water by a reef of coral or sand. There is a system of lagoons between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cordillera Oriental, and Laguna Limon is a part of this network. In 1983, Laguna Limon was declared an Important Bird Area and a Scientific Natural Reserve. An Important Bird Area is recognized as a vital habitat for the conservation of bird populations. Laguna Limon, like other Important Bird Areas, has a significantly diverse population of bird species that need to be protected. These birds can be seen during tours of the Laguna. This area is filled with beautiful wildlife and plant life.
In 1995, the Laguna was declared a Natural Reserve. This classification demonstrates the need to conserve and protect an area due to its wildlife, flora, fauna and other special interests. This conservation helps keep Laguna Limon pristine and its flora and fauna flourishing. Laguna Limon earned even more protection in 2004 when it was declared a Wildlife Refuge. This area is a tourist attraction because it is peaceful, pristine, and bursting with wildlife. The businesses in the area are dedicated to tourism and it is one of the top destinations in the Dominican Republic.
Tourism is a major part of Laguna Limon, and El Limon’s economy because of their close proximity to Punta Cana and Bavaro. Tourists staying in either of these places are able to easily take day trips to Laguna Limon. Sam Gray of Boulder is working with local fishermen on an ecotourism project at Laguna Limon. Their mission is to present Laguna Limon, and the surrounding areas beauty to visitors in a responsible manner. These guide are locals who are able to educate tourists about traditions, mangroves, birdlife, and various human impacts on the Laguna. Sam Gray of Boulder is volunteering his time to help these fishermen promote their business, and develop their community’s economy. To read more about Laguna Limon go to https://kayaklimon.wordpress.com.