Fisheries Department Levels Up with High-Tech Data Training

The numbers behind Belize’s fish stocks are getting a serious upgrade.

The Belize Fisheries Department has wrapped up an intensive 10-day training programme designed to sharpen its data skills and bring fisheries management into the high-tech era. The course, titled “R Studio Training for Fisheries Data Analysis”, focused on one big goal: using smarter data to protect Belize’s marine resources.

The training is part of an ongoing partnership between the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation and the University of Belize. Leading the sessions was Dr Arlenie Rogers, an assistant professor in the Faculty of Science and Technology, who specialises in marine affairs and fisheries science.

Participants got hands-on experience using R programming to import and clean complex fisheries data, run detailed analyses, create professional-grade charts and graphics, and even build models to track fish stock trends and ecosystem changes.

With climate change, habitat degradation, and increased fishing pressure all impacting Belize’s waters, managing fisheries today requires more than basic record-keeping. It demands transparent, science-driven decision-making. By adopting advanced statistical tools, the Department is boosting its ability to make evidence-based policies that support sustainability and long-term marine health.

The initiative is funded through the Government Strategic Allocation project aimed at strengthening marine governance and developing a Marine Spatial Plan for Belize. Support comes from the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future under its GSA mechanism, with backing from the Blue Bond and Finance Permanence Unit.