NASSAU, BAHAMAS — An environmentalist group says they are “deeply concerned” about the impact of a major proposed South Abaco development on one of the largest and most vital pre-spawning aggregation (PSA) sites for bonefish in The Bahamas.
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT), whose mission is to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon, and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education, and advocacy, said in a statement yesterday that it is “deeply concerned about the potential impact of the proposed Kakona development on essential bonefish habitats near Cross Harbour, Abaco.”
BTT stated: “These areas include one of the largest and most vital pre-spawning aggregation (PSA) sites for bonefish in The Bahamas—habitats that support the rich bonefishing economies of Abaco, Andros, Grand Bahama, and across the country. While BTT embraces the importance of sustainable development and job creation, it is crucial to ensure that these activities do not compromise the same natural systems that support high-value ecotourism jobs like those in the flats fishing industry.”
BTT noted that bonefishing is a cornerstone of Bahamian sportfishing tourism, contributing upwards of $169 million annually to the national economy in 2018 and thriving since then. The preservation of critical habitats, like the PSA sites, is essential to the continued success of this industry, which supports local fishing guides, resorts, and other tourism businesses across the islands.
“Each year, bonefish return to their ancestral spawning routes, gathering at PSA sites before migrating into the deep sea to reproduce. Alterations to the coastline or construction of marinas and other over-water structures could block these natural pathways. Such disruptions risk decreasing successful bonefish spawning, causing population declines that could undermine the fishery’s long-term viability,” BTT stated.
BTT urged the developers of Kakona, alongside government regulators, to adopt a precautionary approach. “Scientific studies, such as fish tagging, should be employed to understand the potential effects of the development on bonefish migration. These and other studies can guide necessary protective measures and ecosystem restoration plans to minimize any fishery disruptions and offset environmental harm from construction. Protecting bonefish PSA sites and migration routes is crucial not only for the health of the bonefish population but also for the livelihoods of Bahamians who depend on this fishery,” said BTT.
It added: “A balanced solution is possible—one that allows for economic growth in South Abaco while safeguarding our natural resources for future generations. BTT is committed to working with all stakeholders to find that balance. As public consultations on the Kakona development advance, we call on the developers and government officials to fully consider local community voices and the latest scientific evidence in their decision-making process.”
In December 2022, the Davis administration signed a Heads of Agreement (HOA) for a then $800 million South Abaco development, which would provide hundreds of jobs. Prime Minister Philip Davis noted that $50 million had already been spent by the developers over the prior 15 years, but the project had faced several delays during that time.
SALDCO Ltd, the developers, proposes to develop the Kakona Resort Development, which features three properties in South Abaco. The Leeward Harbour property, known as “The Harbour Club,” includes an estimated 225 boat slips, residences, a boutique hotel, retail outlets, landfill modifications, and Sandy Point airstrip and road improvements. The High Bank property, known as “The Sporting Club,” includes a boutique hotel, wellness/fitness facilities, tennis and pickleball courts, a spa, residences, and a full 18-hole golf course. The Conch Sound property, “The Residence Club,” will develop a boutique hotel, spa, retail village, golf practice area, and private residences.
Abaco’s Chamber of Commerce president, Daphne DeGregory-Miaoulis, recently expressed concern that the developers do all in their power to preserve the natural beauty of the proposed development site after their recently published Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) warned that construction activities could have severe adverse impacts at the three sites they plan to develop.
Public consultation on the South Abaco Land Development Company’s (SALDCO) EIA is scheduled for October 24, 2024, at 6 PM at the Sandy Point Community Centre.
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