DNER issues citations for noise pollution in reserves

Four citations -- three in La Parguera Nature Reserve in Lajas, one in Bahía de Jobos Nature Reserve in Salinas -- were issued over the weekend for violations of an order that prohibits noise pollution in nature reserves and beach areas.

By The Star Staff

Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Waldemar Quiles Pérez announced Monday that four citations were issued over the weekend for violations of Administrative Order 2025-02, which prohibits loud noise or “voceteo” in nature reserves and beach areas.

Voceteo, a form of noise pollution, consists of the modification of vehicles or boats to increase the volume of the sound equipment.

“During the past weekend, Ranger Corps personnel, who were patrolling the marine nature reserves, intervened with four vessels found to be violating the provisions of Order 2025-02,” Quiles stated in a written announcement. “All four received citations to initiate the administrative process related to the fines. The order is very clear in its requirements, and we will strictly adhere to it.”

Three of the violations occurred at Cayo Caracoles, located within the Parguera Nature Reserve in Lajas, while the other took place at Cayo Polita, which is part of the Bahía de Jobos Nature Reserve in Salinas. The violators are required to appear today at the Ranger Corps headquarters in Cabo Rojo and Salinas.

Those who violate the order face administrative fines of up to $25,000 per violation, with the possibility of additional daily fines for repeat offenses. The DNER has been working with the Police Bureau to inform boat owners about the order since it was signed on March 10.

“The noise pollution caused by ‘voceteo’ not only disrupts the tranquility of our protected areas but also negatively impacts the flora and fauna,” Quiles said. “We will continue to enforce restrictions on ‘voceteo’ in our nature reserves and beaches.”