Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – On January 8, by presidential decree, the Sierra de Vallejo-Río Ameca was declared a Biosphere Reserve, offering hope for both the environment and local communities. Sprawling across Nayarit and Jalisco states, the 225,000-hectare Protected Natural Area is not just a sanctuary for exotic creatures but a crucial safeguard for water resources.
The presidential declaration not only seeks to preserve the diverse ecosystems, including the habitat of iconic species such as the jaguar and the macaw, but it also holds promise for mitigating water-related challenges faced by the local populations.
The Río Ameca feeds into crucial water sources for Puerto Vallarta and Bahía de Banderas, where residents have grappled with water scarcity in recent years. Dr. Bartolo Cruz Romero, a biologist at the Centro Universitario de la Costa, emphasizes the reserve’s potential to alleviate this water stress, ensuring a sustainable supply for humans.
Beyond addressing water security concerns, the reserve promises a refuge for threatened species like jaguars and macaws, which are now thriving in the lush rainforests. The region’s ecological wealth is further accentuated by the diversity of orchids, further highlighting its ecological riches.
While the Biosphere Reserve will have restrictions, it won’t be entirely inaccessible. “Certain activities can be permitted for the benefit of local residents,” clarifies Dr. Cruz Romero. The decree outlines a comprehensive management plan that strikes a balance between conservation and responsible land use.
Dr. Cruz Romero emphasizes the broader advantages of the reserve, including climate regulation and the preservation of irreplaceable genetic diversity. “This area will play a crucial role in mitigating the negative impacts of climate change,” he explains.
The Biosphere Reserve designation reflects Mexico’s commitment to environmental protection, benefiting not only jaguars and macaws but also the communities dependent on the Sierra de Vallejo-Río Ameca’s resources. This vibrant reserve paves the way for a future where humanity and nature coexist harmoniously.
