On
12th December 1997, the Ministry for the Environment issued a decree which
created the Protected Marine Area of Punta Campanella in accordance with the law
on protected areas n. 394 dated 6.12.91, thus recognising the natural, scenic
and historical value of this area and its need for protection whilst
safeguarding its traditional economic activities.
The
Protected Marine Area covers the coastal zones of the towns of Massa Lubrense,
Piano di Sorrento, Positano, Sant'Agnello, Sorrento and Vico Equense. Its
principal aims are to protect and valorise the biological and geomorphological
resources of this area, to increase people's knowledge of marine and coastal
environments and to promote a social and economic development compatible with
the naturalistic and scenic vocation of the area.
In
order to achieve this in the best possible way, the Protected Marine Area bas
been divided into three zones:
A
- fully protected reserve
B
- generally protected reserve
C
- partially protected reserve
This
method of using zones regulates the activities permitted and forbidden in a
flexible and functional way. For example, in zone A which includes the rocks of
Vervece and Vetara, sailing, swimming and fishing are forbidden. In Zone B,
motor boats for guided group trips and professional fishing are allowed with
relative permits from the authorising bodies, whilst underwater fishing and free
anchorage are not. Finally in Zone C access is allowed to low-powered
motor-boats for the sole purpose of reaching suitably arranged moorings, whilst
free anchorage is forbidden. The Authorities may also permit bathing, scuba
diving and professional fishing with equipment that does not damage the sea beds.