The Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations (APAMO) was established in August 2007 as Belize’s umbrella network for Protected Area co-managers. Over the years, APAMO has become a vital partner to the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change, Ministry of Forestry and Ministry of Fisheries, helping implement the country’s National Protected Areas Policy and Systems Plan.

By supporting these efforts, APAMO also aids Belize in fulfilling its obligations under international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Over time, the organization has formed strategic alliances with major conservation and funding bodies including the Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT), the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP), and the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF).

Today, APAMO brings together 18 member organizations that co-manage 30 protected areas across Belize, collectively safeguarding approximately 1.3 million acres of biodiversity and ecosystems with clear benefits to thousands of stakeholders and local communities. Through its network, APAMO offers a platform for these managers to coordinate, share resources and experiences, and jointly address the threats and challenges facing Belize’s protected areas.

In its role as the unified voice for protected areas, APAMO plays a critical role in advocating for sustainable and effective protected area management, promoting resilience, good governance and stewardship of Belize’s natural heritage.