Proposed Solution – Estero Agiabampo Reserve

The purpose of the reserve is to protect for present and future generations the diverse natural communities found within the proposed reserve, especially one of the largest remaining intact areas of el Pitayal in southern Sonora and the extensive mangrove stands lining the Agiabampo estuary. The proposed area for the working nature reserve includes the peninsula separating the estuary from the Sea of Cortez, the islands within the estuary, and the peninsula bolsa de bomocha.

The reserve will prevent further loss of these important ecosystems, while creating opportunities for scientific research, education, recreation, tourism, and other enterprises derived from the natural resources of the area. The concept of a working nature reserve allows the use of a natural area to the benefit of local people, who in return work to preserve the natural systems providing these benefits. Existing aquaculture projects are included in the reserve as they provide opportunities for collaborative research to evaluate their impact on the health of the estuary and to develop ways to mitigate any negative impacts.

When local communities become the beneficiaries of their biodiversity, they are much more likely to preserve it. By shifting local economies toward environmental services and low-impact extractive businesses, it is possible to protect vital natural resources and improve living standards for the local beneficiaries of these activities. Research opportunities in the area of the proposed nature reserve are immense. Establishing a biological field station at Navopatia would generate significant financial support for scientific projects and educational programs involving faculty and students from Mexico and the United States.

With proper planning, programs could be developed that provide responsible travel opportunities focused on the unique natural history and local cultures of the area, that provide educational experiences for the tourist, that contribute to the conservation of the natural resources of the area, and that provide economic opportunities for local people, making conservation beneficial to communities near the reserve. Economic value can be created for preservation of intact habitat by developing low-impact, nature-based experiences. Estero Agiabampo provides many opportunities for low-impact recreation; like kayaking with dolphins or exploring the serpentine channels in the estuary’s extensive mangrove stands.