APAMO Celebrates 18 Years with Annual Conserv-a-thon
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) with the support of 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. The Conserv-a-thon was more than a race, it represented a commitment to protecting Belize’s forests, keeping rivers clean, and preserving the wildlife that depends on healthy ecosystems. 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 heritage. 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 between government and non-state actors.
APAMO extends heartfelt congratulations to all winners and participants who ran for a cause, demonstrating that every mile strengthens us and every step contributes to a greener Belize.
October 5, 2025
APAMO Youth Engagement Expo 2025
APAMO proudly hosted its Annual Youth Engagement Expo, uniting passionate youth from our member organizations under this year’s empowering theme: “Inspiring Environmental Stewards: Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Leaders.”
The event was brimming 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.
In addition to these enriching sessions, the youth embraced the spirit of fun and teamwork through a variety of friendly competitions and classic field games, creating moments of laughter, excitement, and camaraderie.
APAMO extends sincere appreciation to all partners, presenters, and sponsors whose unwavering support made this event possible. Your contributions continue to play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders.
To all the youth participants, your enthusiasm, teamwork, and dedication truly embody the spirit of environmental stewardship. You are the driving force behind our mission, shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for Belize.
July 18, 2025
APAMO Welcomes its Newest Member (HETA)
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. Representing the Indian Creek Valley community in the Stann Creek District, HETA are the ideal custodians of their own backyard. Their deep-rooted connection to the land, combined with a steadfast commitment to preserving its ecological services, protecting biodiversity, and maintaining biological corridors, is an invaluable asset to our collective pursuit of sustainable management of Belize’s protected areas. As we continue to strengthen our collective voice, we are confident that HETA’s local knowledge and dedication will greatly contribute to our shared vision for a sustainable and resilient future.
September 4, 2024
APAMO's 16th Anniversary CONSERV-A-THON
The Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations (APAMO) celebrated a significant milestone—its 16th anniversary as Belize’s leading network of environmental Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). In commemoration of this significant achievement, on October 7, 2023, APAMO held “APAMO’s 16th Anniversary Conserv-a-thon.” The event, a 9.8-mile run, not only promoted health and fitness but also raised awareness about the existence and important role of protected areas. The run began in front of Xaibel Gas Station at 6.5-mile Hummingbird Highway into the Thomas Vincent Ramos Highway, ending inside the Mayflower Bocawina National Park (MBNP). The Conserv-a-thon attracted forty runners, each driven by their shared commitment to contribute to the conservation efforts championed by APAMO.
The event was hosted by APAMO’s Central Resource Center (ACRC) with the support of its key partners, the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT), the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), and its member organizations.
The 9.8-mile run concluded with a brief ceremony at the MBNP. Each participating runner received a memento medal, and the top finishers were awarded attractive prizes. We thank Mr. Ismael Teul, PACT CIS Manager, Mr. Josue Carballo, BTB Director of Industry, and Ms. Roshell Daley, Chairlady of MBEDG, for continuously demonstrating their support for the work of APAMO with their attendance. As APAMO reflects on its journey over the past 16 years, despite the numerous and diverse nature of challenges encountered, it remains steadfast in its dedication to serving as a voice for its members, particularly the smaller grassroots Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that act as custodians of protected areas, buffering their communities. Our forests and protected areas are being threatened on a daily basis. APAMO calls on the respective Government departments and ministries to join us and embrace our efforts as meaningful partners. Strengthening the collaboration between the Government and non-state organizations like APAMO can only result in positive gains for Belize. The success of APAMO’s Conserv-a-thon serves as a living testament to its mission, ensuring a legacy of environmental conservation for the benefit of future generations. APAMO extends sincere gratitude to all participants, partners, member organizations and sponsors whose contributions led to the success of the 16th Anniversary Conserv-a-thon.
October 8, 2023