The document discusses plans to expand ports in Colon, Panama that would require clearing mangroves near Punta Galeta, which hosts an important marine research laboratory. There are concerns that the environmental impact assessments of the plans lack scientific rigor and do not properly address risks to the fragile ecosystem from sedimentation, changes to freshwater flows, and destruction of natural creeks. Maintaining mangrove buffers, especially around a river running through the area, is important to protect surrounding ecosystems and prevent increased flooding in Colon. Local groups are urged to engage in efforts to change development plans and laws.

1. The mangroves of Punta Galeta A snapshot of their diversity…

2. White mangrove Red mangrove Black mangrove

4. are in danger… The mangroves of Punta Galeta and the livelihood they support,

8. Reasons Why Mangroves are a Unique and Important Ecosystem 3. Prevent costal erosion 2. Protection against catastrophic weather 1. Habitat and food for marine and terrestrial organism 4. Spawning grounds

11. 26 Scientific Instruments, which compose the oldest physical monitoring program in the Caribbean - Measures rainfall, quantum radiation, sea level of the Caribbean, for instance - Can be viewed world wide at: http://striweb.si.edu/esp/physical_monitoring/data/mesp/realtime/galeta_24hr_a utorefresh.htm

17. 2. Freshwater flow - In Margarita Lagoon, the salinity equilibrium is fragile - As landfill is built, there will be freshwater runoff - It should go back to the bay because it would alter the salinity and lead to the rapid destruction of the adjacent mangroves 3 Concerns for Galeta and the surrounding Mangroves

18. 3. Protection of natural creeks - Mangroves are very important in keeping well-functioning estuaries. - At very least, a mangrove belt must be maintained surrounding the water. - The more creeks that are altered, the more flooding there will be. 3 Concerns for Galeta and the surrounding Mangroves

25. Will this be Punta Galeta in ten years?

26. We must choose. Or this?