representatives of United Tour Operators (Tour Operators Uni) had the opportunity to go out into the field together with the Minister of Infrastructure, Mr. Rene Herdé, and the Director of the Directorate of Nature and Environment (DNM), Mr. Gisbert Boekhoudt, to assess the area of Tera Cora together. The meeting was intended as a site orientation; it was not a negotiation, and no decisions were made regarding the route.
During a previous orientation session, DNM presented a map showing the locations where, according to DNM, burrowing owl (shoco) nests are located. On-site, the group confirmed one nest within the area delineated by DNM. According to measurements based on the GPS log from the visit, the nest is situated approximately 375 meters from the dirt road where UTVs, ATVs, and Jeeps operate, and approximately 30 meters from the golf course fence. United Tour Operators hopes that DNM will share its documentation and nest map with all involved parties.
“We are pleased with this positive step, where DNM was able to show and educate us right on the ground about fragile zones, nesting and breeding areas, and the local flora and fauna. In the meantime, we remain awaiting a copy of the most recent documentation and the nest map from DNM,” stated United Tour Operators following the visit to Tera Cora.
United Tour Operators requested that Aruba Birdlife Conservation also participate in the field visit to share its expertise. The organization did not participate, nor was it present at the meetings held with the operators during the month of September. United Tour Operators sent a letter to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Infrastructure requesting that a meeting with Aruba Birdlife Conservation be facilitated as soon as possible, as it is crucial for all parties to be part of the dialogue and the solutions for the future of tourism and nature.