Alistair Beveridge,
D.O.C.T.
27/3 Moo 7,
Chalong Muang,
Phuket 83100.
Tel: 076-280319
Fax: 076-280486

To The Ministry of
Natural Resources
Bangkok.

12th December 2545

Dear Sir,

RICHELIEU ROCK (ANDAMAN SEA)

I am writing this letter to you as the President of the DOCT (Dive Operators Club of Thailand), which has 46 members based in Phuket.

We would like to appeal to the Ministry of Natural Resources to consider including the marine pinnacle, known as RICHELIEU ROCK, into the Thailand National Park system as soon as possible.

We all understand that besides serving a vital conservation role, these marine parks provide valuable recreational and educational opportunities for both Thais and foreign tourists.

Unfortunately, many Thai marine sites are under threat due to encroachment by fishing boats and RICHELIEU ROCK is a current example.

If RICHELIEU ROCK was included in the National Park system it would produce the following benefits:

1. It would stop the degradation of natural resource systems and protected areas.

2. It would increase public awareness regarding the importance of conservation.

3. It would allow the expansion of Thailand’s protected areas.

4. It would allow the rehabilitation of protected areas degraded by prior use.

5. It would define who would be responsible for planning and managing this protected area.

6. It would allow National Park regulations which cover protected areas to be enforced for conservation and careful usage.

Thank you for your consideration,

Yours sincerely,

Alistair Beveridge,
President,
DOCT.

Copy to: Chief of the Surin National Park.
Chief of the Similan National Park.