The National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp) has taken a significant step toward preserving Quintana Roo’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Fernando Orozco Ojeda, the Regional Director of Conanp in the Yucatán Peninsula, recently announced the beginning of efforts to develop management programs for two newly declared áreas naturales protegidas (protected natural areas). These areas were officially recognized in the Diario Oficial de la Federación, and now, Conanp is moving forward with plans that will guide their preservation and sustainable use.
New Protected Areas: Flora and Fauna Protection
The two new areas, categorized as Flora and Fauna Protection Areas, represent vital ecosystems. The first, Felipe Carrillo Puerto, spans approximately 53,000 hectares and covers sections of Solidaridad, Cozumel, and Tulum. This area also includes the land owned by the Sactun company, formerly known as Calica, a crucial space due to its ecological value.
The second area, Chunyaxché, covers about 5,222 hectares and is located within Felipe Carrillo Puerto. This zone is particularly important because it connects with the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Chunyaxché’s proximity to this protected zone strengthens its ecological significance, allowing for greater biodiversity connectivity and conservation.
Focus on Management Plans
As part of the next phase, Conanp will develop management plans for both areas, a critical step in their legal and ecological governance. “Our next task is to create the management programs, which are the planning instruments that will regulate the legal life of an área natural protegida,” Orozco explained. These documents will be created in collaboration with local communities, landowners, and stakeholders, ensuring that all parties are involved in shaping the future of these important conservation areas.
The process will begin with consultations and workshops to gather input from users and community members. The management plans are not just a legal formality but a foundation for guiding sustainable development, conservation strategies, and biodiversity protection in these zones.
Biodiversity and Climate Change
The decision to declare these areas protected zones was primarily based on the richness of biodiversity found within their ecosystems. Endemic species, unique flora and fauna, and the need to maintain ecological connectivity—particularly in the case of Chunyaxché—were central factors in their designation. For Chunyaxché, the approval from the local ejido (landowners) was also a key element in securing its status as a protected area.
With the inclusion of these new zones, Quintana Roo now boasts 24 federally recognized áreas naturales protegidas, all under Conanp’s oversight. “We’ve already begun work with Chunyaxché, our most active project, and we will soon start on the management plan for Felipe Carrillo Puerto,” added Orozco.
Addressing Environmental Challenges
Although no new areas are planned for protection in the near future, Conanp’s primary focus will be on developing management plans and addressing the pressing environmental issues that affect the region. One of the most significant challenges is climate change. Rising ocean temperatures are stressing coral reefs, threatening not only marine life but also the livelihoods of local communities that depend on eco-tourism and fishing.
Conanp is working closely with service providers and local users of these natural areas to mitigate these effects. The aim is to find ways to reduce human impact on these delicate ecosystems and promote sustainable practices that can help preserve the region’s natural heritage.
In summary, creating these new áreas naturales protegidas is a crucial step in ensuring the long-term conservation of Quintana Roo’s rich biodiversity. As Conanp begins work on management plans, these efforts will set the foundation for sustainable management, community involvement, and climate change resilience, securing the future of these critical ecological zones.
The Tulum Times will continue to report on the progress of these initiatives and their impact on local communities and ecosystems.
