With the goal of protecting endangered marine fauna species, especially the breeding and shelter areas of the West Indian manatee, the conservation unit (CU) strengthens the process of participation and involvement of the local community, obtaining significant results in reducing deforestation in the mangrove and, consequently, conserving biodiversity. The CU's management council works in conjunction with local partners, such as traditional fishermen, to promote food security, maintain water quality, protect the coast, and support recreational and educational uses.

In 2018, ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability conducted a survey and systematization of experiences in the management of local protected areas through a call for proposals for municipal conservation units. The selection of best practices qualitatively assessed the availability of information, the existence of consolidated experiences, the time and process of implementation, and the scope of replicability.