Cayman Islands General Information

Protecting our environment

Marine Conservation
The Cayman Islands' extensive Marine Parks system has been in place since 1986, with the enactment of the Marine Parks Regulations. We can proudly boast the recognition we've attained for our leadership role in marine conservation and the healthy system of marine parks surrounding all three islands. In 1978, the Cayman Islands passed the Marine Conservation Act, and in 1986 the Marine Parks Law was passed. This legislation created some of the Caribbean's most effective laws for the protection of the coastal and territorial marine environment. In June 1993, the Cayman Islands introduced the most severe penalties for marine pollution in the Caribbean: the Government amended the Marine Conservation Act of 1978, raising the maximum fine to international standards (CI$500,000 or US$625,000) for any vessel convicted of polluting Cayman's territorial waters.

Look but don't touch...
... is the prevailing policy in Cayman's waters. The Cayman Islands has strict marine conservation laws which are enforced by marine parks and marine police officers, assisted by all members of the Cayman Islands Watersports Operators Association (CIWOA) in all three islands. These laws strictly prohibit the harming or collecting of any marine life including hard corals in designated marine park zones. The capture of any marine life, including the legally allowed limit of conch, lobster or fish in season is prohibited throughout Cayman waters while using scuba gear.

Spearfishing by visitors is strictly prohibited and the importation or possession of spear guns or parts is illegal. A detailed brochure showing the various marine park zones and regulations has been produced by the Department of the Environment and is widely distributed at hotels and watersports operations.

The National Trust
The National Trust for the Cayman Islands was established some years ago as a result of a few concerned individuals who were aware that the natural and man-made environments of the Cayman Islands were vulnerable to the changes brought about by recent development.

The National Trust for the Cayman Islands Law of 1987 created this non-profit, statutory body which is 'responsible for the preservation of Cayman's historic, natural and maritime heritage; the conservation of lands, natural features and submarine areas of beauty, historic or environmental importance, and the protection of our native flora and fauna'.

The Trust is also empowered to declare Trust-owned property as inalienable, which means that heritage property can be held in trust forever protected for the people of the Cayman Islands to cherish and enjoy.

With a two-fold mission to preserve natural environments and places of historic significance for present and future generations of the Cayman Islands, the Trust's work at this time focuses on Environmental Conservation through establishing a system of nature reserves and Historic Preservation, by the identification and restoration of Cayman's built heritage.

Public education is a strong element of the work of the Trust, with the understanding that developing widespread appreciation and awareness of Cayman's natural and historic heritage is critical to preservation.

National Trust Membership
Membership in the National Trust for the Cayman Islands is open to individuals and organizations, whether they are based in Cayman or simply have a concern for Cayman's heritage. The Trust depends on support from its members. This includes not only annual membership dues, but also donations of money, time, services and property, as well as project funding by other special interest organizations and benefactors.

Our members include residents of many countries who share and support our mission statement and vision for Cayman's natural and historic preservation. We invite you to join us. Membership in the National Trust does not necessarily require active participation, but implies that you support and uphold the Trust and what it stands for.

How to contact the National Trust for the Cayman Islands:
E-mail: ntrust@candw.ky.
Address: P.O. Box 31116 SMB, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, BWI
PH: (345) 949-0121; FAX: (345) 949-7494