APAMO was formally constituted in 2007 to facilitate unified representation for protected areas management agencies. Today, APAMO is considered Belize’s frontrunner network of non-governmental conservation organizations dedicated to conserving irreplaceable natural resources within the national protected areas. Our mission is to effectively support the National Protected Areas System to maintain its capacity to protect biodiversity and provide ecosystem goods and services that are critical for socio-economic resilience and national development.

OUR MISSION

APAMO effectively supporting the National Protected Areas System to maintain its capacity to protect biodiversity and provide ecosystem goods and services that are critical for socio-economic resilience and national development.

OUR VISION

APAMO is a diverse non-governmental protected areas management network contributing to the effective and sustainable management of Belize’s National Protected Areas System for the benefit of all Belizeans.

INVESTED

$ 0 M

MEMBERS

1

TERRESTIAL

0

MARINE

0

MEMBERSHIP

For a membership organization such as APAMO to stay relevant and continue to succeed, it needs to listen to and adapt to the evolving needs of its members. APAMO must be efficient at networking and advocacy and should seek to address the professional development needs of the collective membership.

MANAGEMENT

Effective protected areas management is at the core of what APAMO does. In this regard, management effectiveness evaluation becomes key, and thus the capacity to ensure effective management by APAMO members is utmost priority.

GOVERNANCE

APAMO is accountable to its stakeholders for the effective use of funds, donations and services entrusted to it. APAMO ensures that the appropriate processes and structures are in place to direct and manage the organization's operations and activities at both the institutional and the organizational levels.

GOVERNANCE

LATEST UPDATES

APAMO’s Third Annual Ranger Forum

APAMO successfully hosted its Third Annual Ranger Forum on Wednesday, November 27, 2025, at the Mayflower Bocawina National Park. The forum brought together dedicated men and women from across APAMO’s protected areas network; the frontline defenders of Belize’s natural resources. Held under the theme “Strengthening the Heart of Conservation,” the event emphasized not only capacity-building and knowledge-sharing, but also the importance of ranger wellness. Participants took part in interactive discussions, practical skill-building activities, and shared field experiences aimed at strengthening their effectiveness in protected area management.

A special highlight of the day was an inspiring wellness and mental-health session delivered by Nurse Ivett Quintanilla, who reminded participants that caring for nature begins with caring for themselves. Her session reinforced the forum’s broader message of resilience, balance, and personal well-being in a profession that is both physically demanding and emotionally challenging. The forum also recognized the rangers invaluable contribution to conservation. Their dedication, courage, and unwavering presence continue to uplift and inspire the entire APAMO family. Together, the network of rangers continues to build resilience, support one another, and invest in the heart behind the mission.

APAMO Celebrates 18 Years of Conservation with Its Annual Conserv-a-thon

On October 5, 2025, the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations (APAMO) celebrated its 18th anniversary as Belize’s leading network of environmental Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). To mark this milestone, APAMO hosted its “18th Anniversary Conserv-a-thon,” an event aimed at inspiring action for conservation, wellness, and environmental stewardship. The event was organized by APAMO’s Central Resource Center (ACRC) in partnership with the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT).

Dozens of participants, including runners, nature enthusiasts, and wellness advocates, joined the 13.5-mile run from Dangriga Uno Gas Station to the scenic Mayflower Bocawina National Park (MBNP). They ran not only for fitness but for a cause; supporting APAMO’s mission to safeguard protected areas and the communities that rely on them. Every stride taken was a step toward a greener, healthier future for Belize.

Reflecting on 18 years of progress, APAMO continues to serve as a collective voice for its members, particularly the grassroots Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that act as custodians of Belize’s natural resources. The organization also emphasizes the importance of collaboration, recognizing that lasting protection of Belize’s forests, rivers, and wildlife is only possible through strong partnerships and collaborations.

APAMO extends heartfelt congratulations to all participants who ran for a cause, demonstrating that every mile strengthens us and every step contributes to a greener Belize. The event’s success was made possible with the support of PACT and the generous contributions of sponsors.

Financial Management Training Among APAMO Members

On September 19, 2025, the management teams from member organizations participated in a specialized financial management training facilitated by the ACRC. The session centered on the updated Financial Manual for APAMO Members, which outlines improved policies and procedures to strengthen internal financial controls, enhance budgeting and reporting systems across the network.

At APAMO, we recognize that transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of effective organizational management. Through initiatives like this training, we continue to support our member organizations in building strong financial frameworks that ensure the accuracy, reliability, and compliance of all financial operations.

By enhancing financial literacy and reinforcing best practices, APAMO aims to encourage resilience and sustainability among its members. We believe that robust financial management is not only vital for operational efficiency but also essential for achieving long-term organizational success.

APAMO Youth Engagement Expo

July 18, 2025

What a day to remember! APAMO proudly hosted its Annual Youth Engagement Expo, bringing together enthusiastic youth from our member organizations under this year’s inspiring theme: “Inspiring Environmental Stewards: Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Leaders.”

The day was filled with energy, learning, and collaboration, an inspiring celebration of youth empowerment and environmental awareness. Participants engaged in a series of interactive learning sessions and discussions designed to expand knowledge and deepen their connection with the environment.

APAMO extends heartfelt thanks to members, presenters, and sponsors whose contributions and continued support made this event possible. Your support plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders. To all the youth participants, your enthusiasm, teamwork, and dedication are truly inspiring. You are the heart of this movement, and your actions today are shaping a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow for Belize.

APAMO Welcomes its Newest Member (Hummingbird Environmental Tour-Guide Association)

September 4, 2024

We are thrilled and honored to extend a warm welcome to the Hummingbird Environmental Tour-Guide Association (HETA), co-managers of Five Blues Lake National Park, into the APAMO family. HETA is the co-manager of Five Blues Lake National Park (FBLNP), located within Indian Creek Valley in the Stann Creek District. They are dedicated to preserving the ecological services of FBLNP, protecting biodiversity, and maintaining biological corridors that connect neighboring ecosystems.

As we continue to strengthen our collective voice, we are confident that HETA’s dedication will greatly contribute to our shared vision to conserve Belize’s rich biodiversity, empower local communities, and promote sustainable development.

APAMO CONSERVATION NEWSCAST PILOT

APAMO, in partnership with The National Channel (TNC10), is excited to introduce the pilot for the APAMO Conservation News program. The APAMO Conservation News (ACN) program is a response to growing environmental concerns and the need to build public awareness and support. The ACN offers APAMO members an opportunity to take their place as The Voice of their Protected Area and share their stories with a wider audience. The goal of this project is to educate viewers, both local and international, about the flora and fauna of Belize and its ecological and socioeconomic importance. We are eagerly excited to shed light on incredible conservationists in our network who have dedicated their work and life to the sustainable development of our country and the preservation of the wildlife that inhabit.