In 1992, the first national park was established in Jamaica, the Montego Bay Marine Park, in order to protect the reef ecosystem. Years of overfishing, of mangroves destruction, and of bad sewage installations had almost destroyed the rich underwater life in the area.
The Montego Bay Marine Park stretches from Sangster International Airport to the Great River -- six miles west of Montego Bay. Park patrols control illegal activities in the park. Fishing, shell collecting, and all activities that can negatively impact the coral reefs are forbidden. Water sport activities are regulated.