In 2000 CSF worked with the Belize Alliance of Conservation Non-Government Organizations to provide Belizeans with an independent analysis of a proposed dam on the Macal River. The upper Macal and its tributaries provide habitat for rare scarlet macaws, Morelet's crocodiles, river otters, tapirs and jaguars. But it also has potential to supply electricity to consumers throughout Belize.

CSF has carried out an economic analysis of the dam proposed at a site known as Chalillo. We have also analyzed the environmental impacts assessment for the project. Our conclusion is that the dam's costs would exceed its benefits by at least US$4.5 million, before considering environmental costs. Environmental costs could add in excess of US$4 million to the price tag. In other words, there is no net economic benefit to compensate for the loss of wildlife and other environmental amenities in the area. To the contrary, Belizeans would likely experience a slight rise in electricity rates if the dam were built.

Regarding the EIA, we concur with analyses of our Belizean colleagues, that the EIA prepared for the dam is incomplete in many respects and in particular where impacts on wildlife and their natural habitats are concerned.

View Report

Analysis of the Final Feasibility Study and Environmental Impact Assessment for the Proposed Chalillo Dam