Las Dunas has suffered constant damage.
Santo Domingo, DR
Under the direction of a technical committee of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, a survey of various complaints about sand removal around Las Dunas Natural Monument and Ban was conducted in this protected area.
Senpa personnel participated in the day-long investigation. According to the complaints, the processing and reception areas for sand were also inspected.
Minister Orlando Jorge Mera explained that a team of technical personnel has been sent to evaluate the area. They have warned that if the material was extracted, the Ministry of the Environment will bring the responsible parties to justice. This is in accordance with Law 64-00.
“Looting, Dunes, Ban, investigation, Environment.”
The Ministry of Environment has the responsibility of caring for and protecting Las Dunas, putting an end to any threat to this area and preventing illegal withdrawals of sand material.
It is also within the Ministry’s competence to regulate activities that are not in the buffer zone and core. Orlando Jorge Mera repeatedly reiterated that any violations or damages to the environment will face the full weight of Law 64-01. Therefore, the Ministry will provide all details regarding illegal extractions from areas close to the Ban Dunes.
An ecotourism route
Jorge Mera has given priority to this area and plans on promoting it as an ecotourism route for Dominicans and foreigners to enjoy its landscapes.
The Minister of Environment visited the area around Salinas, Calderas and Punta Salinas last year. This allowed him to dismantle an alleged network of owners who had settled within the Dunes using authorizations from previous administrations.
The largest in the Caribbean
Las Dunas de Las Calderas Natural Monument (or Dunes of Ban) is the largest dune system in the Insular Caribbean. Its mountains can reach up 35 meters.
This area was originally protected by decree 233-96. Later, it was incorporated into the National System of Protected Areas under the General Law of Environment and Natural Resources No. 64-00. Las Dunas is 20 kilometers in area and has great scenic beauty. They protect surrounding communities from hurricanes, and are home to unique species that are adapted to these dry and salty environments.
Las Dunas is a spectacular place to visit. They are situated in front of a beautiful beach, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. This makes it ideal for activities like snorkeling, kitesurfing and just relaxing.