Under the Ecosystem-based Management Unit of the Belize Fisheries Department, the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve functions under this statement “To protect and sustain the value of the area for fisheries and tourism; to enhance the economic and social benefits of the area”. Most aquatic ecosystems are unavoidably affected by fishery activities that involve a selective removal of part of the natural productivity for human subsistence, economic returns and development; therefore the CCMR is a management tool in the Ecosystem approach to fishery to mitigate adverse impacts to the natural environment and to protect the biodiversity of the area for economic and social benefits. The use of the Marine Reserve is regulated through zonation – the Preservation, Conservation and General Use zones. The Conservation zone is for non-extractive recreational use – primarily snorkeling and diving – with no commercial or sport fishing allowed. The Preservation zone does not allow any activities (fishing or recreational), nor does it allow entrance to motor boats, except in emergencies. However, the General Use zone permits fishing by traditional users through a special license system. Catch and release sport fishing is also permitted.