Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge is the farthest east of the three main towns of the island (Coxen Hole and French Harbor being the other two) and is the seat of power for the second municipality of Roatan, Jose Santos Guardiola. Unlike the western portion of the island, the economy of Oak Ridge is still predominantly based on the fishing industry. While some tourism exists (The Reef House, which is the oldest dive resort on the island, is located one of the cays off of Oak Ridge), fishing controls the way of life; when the whistle blows at the fish packing plant, almost instantly water taxis, overburdened with passengers, fan out to various locations along the shoreline.

Like most development in the area, development in Oak Ridge occurs along the shoreline and out over the water. Most houses in Oak Ridge are built on stilts and residents use raised walkways to reach dry land. However, this land use pattern has changed dramatically in the past few years because of an influx of people from the mainland. This influx is fueled by the relatively inexpensive access to the island via the MV/Tropical and the perception that Roatan has a thriving economy. Many of these mainlanders have settled on the north shore of the bay in Oak Ridge, creating a small town. As can be seen in the 1993 satellite image, this shanty town has expanded not only out into the mangroves, but also up into the watershed. Foundations for houses are dug out of the hillside, and shacks made of mud, wood, and other readily available materials are then constructed. This type of construction rapidly changes the face of the watershed; significant changes were noted even over a six month period.

Judging from previous failed attempts to remove the squatters, this town will likely continue to grow and expand. Because of these changes, Oak Ridge will remain a long term study site of the Roatan Project.