THE home for spinner dolphins could be at risk as a result of gravel extraction activities happening in the Dawasamu River in Tailevu, claims the manager of Nataleira Eco Lodge.
The Moon Reef, a 10-minute boat ride from the lodge, has been a habitat to spinner dolphins for decades.
Three years ago, after a quarry was established inland, Josefa Bau claimed gravel extraction activities in the Dawasamu River sedimentation and siltation had polluted the sea floor.
“If this continues in the next few years, I strongly believe that the corals in Moon Reef will be affected. This will force spinner dolphins to either migrate or they will be at risk of extinction,” he said.
“This has also affected our business. The tourists find it hard to snorkel because the waste from extraction has changed the sea colour, and it’s always dirty. Tourists love our day trip product because they go to Moon Reef to swim with spinner dolphins. This product is very much at risk.”
Mr Bau said his business believes in the protection of the environment but their concerns have landed on deaf ears despite raising it with relevant authorities.
“Even our marine protected areas have been affected, where we have beche-de-mer (sea cucumber) and a breeding ground for fish,” Mr Bau said.
