In a pivotal meeting held on April 23, 2024, the Comisión de Iniciativas Comunitarias, Salud Mental y Adicción convened to address pressing concerns from the fishing community of Río Grande. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as representatives from various organizations, including the Asociación de Pescadores del Río Grande, gathered to voice their issues regarding access to the Espíritu Santo River and the quality of its waters.

The session began with a clear intention: to provide a platform for local fishermen to express their worries without feeling cornered or adversarial. The committee chair emphasized the importance of collaboration and understanding, acknowledging the complex challenges faced by the fishing community. “We want to be part of the solution,” he stated, highlighting a shared commitment to progress that respects the unique identity of the fishing village.

As the representatives from the Asociación de Pescadores took the floor, they recounted their rich history and deep connection to the Espíritu Santo River, the only navigable river in Puerto Rico. Established fifty years ago, the association has been a guardian of both the river and the surrounding marine environment. They expressed gratitude for the committee's attention to their plight, particularly regarding the access to fishing areas that are vital for their livelihoods.

The fishermen detailed their struggles, particularly following a series of natural disasters that devastated their facilities. They described a long-standing relationship with the local municipality, which had previously supported their efforts to secure funding for rehabilitation through FEMA. However, tensions escalated after a municipal visit in June 2023, which marked a turning point in their relationship. The fishermen felt blindsided by new regulations that treated them as tenants in their own space, raising concerns about the future of their fishing village.

The meeting underscored the fishermen's determination to maintain their rights and access to the river, as they called for transparency and collaboration from municipal authorities. Their narrative is not just about fishing; it is about preserving a way of life and ensuring that the community's voice is heard in decisions that affect their environment and livelihoods.

As the session concluded, the committee members were left with a profound understanding of the fishermen's plight and the importance of safeguarding both the river and the community that relies on it. The discussions highlighted a critical intersection of environmental stewardship and community rights, setting the stage for future dialogues aimed at fostering cooperation and sustainable development in Río Grande.