Manchón Guamuchal is a vital wetland ecosystem on Guatemala’s Pacific Coast, close to the Mexican border. It’s home to one of the largest (18,903 acres) mangrove forests in the country and is an important stopover for migratory birds. Its total area is close to 100 square miles, with a little more than half of it protected as a RAMSAR important wetland site. The National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP) manages the reserve. Its waters include freshwater and brackish lagoons, swamps, and freshwater wetlands.
The islands of La Barrita and Tres Cruces have a combined population of 3,500, many of whom make a living by fishing. The communities face significant challenges, including pollution from agriculture and industry and a lack of clean drinking water. There are few educational opportunities. Outsiders have come into the area for large-scale fishing in the canals and mangroves. Mangroves are also logged illegally. The olive ridley and green sea turtles that nest on area beaches are poorly protected. There’s one turtle hatchery, but many eggs are eaten by animals or sold at local markets.
The island communities want to protect their natural resources by creating a 1,235-acre fishing protection zone at the limits of La Barrita village. The fishing community is committed to overseeing surveillance and protection of the area, as well as working alongside authorities to curtail illegal logging and hunting. Officials from CONAP will guide the process and seek official approval by authorities. New signage will demarcate and explain the reserve area. Only artisanal fishing methods will be allowed – no nets, harpoons, or other potentially destructive gear.
The project will address the critical lack of drinking water by providing two water filtration and purification systems, to be located on communal land in each village. Partner NGO Chapinísimos en Acción, with the support of CONAP, will also conduct an educational campaign in local schools to engender pride in the area’s natural heritage.
