Dominican Navy doubles protection of Baní Dunes amid environmental threats

Peravia, D.R.- The Dominican Navy has doubled its protection of the Baní (Calderas) Dunes, deploying sailors to conduct military exercises while monitoring the natural monument, Vice Admiral Juan Bienvenido Crisóstomo Martínez announced.

As part of this initiative, 288 sailors recently carried out hardening marches and training exercises at the site, which also serve to prevent environmental crimes such as deforestation, illegal farming, and sand extraction. Crisóstomo Martínez emphasized that the Dunes are a priority for the Navy, combining military readiness with environmental protection.

The announcement aligns with President Luis Abinader’s recent plan to title national parks and protected areas, transferring legal ownership to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to ensure better management and prevent illegal appropriation. The first phase will include Loma Novillero National Park and Los Haitises National Park, with the Calderas Dunes potentially included in the broader plan.