In 1984 the Marine Reserve and fishing priority areas of St. Lucia came into law. By 1995 the management of this marine sector saw a greater presence in the establishment of the Soufriere Marine Management Area (SMMA). This meant no longer would it be possible to encroach on the fragile marine ecosystems of this island without first seeking permission and/or obtaining a license from the local Ministry of Agriculture; Department of Fisheries. Within the past 9 years this initiative has lead to increased fish stocks (especially in the Soufriere area, reductions in coral poaching and a zero observance in reef dynamiting.