Cozumel, Q.R. — Restoration of the mangrove forest in the Laguna Colombia State Ecological Reserve is progressing. The reserve, located within the Punta Sur Ecotourism Park, is progressing with solid and measurable results that confirm the success of the program.
The Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC) reported that during 2025, the work covered an area of 5,500 square meters that involved maintaining hydrological flow, raising terraces and dispersing propagules in mangrove development areas.
The director of Punta Sur, Jesús Benavides Andrade, said these actions strengthen the natural recovery of the wetland. He explained that these efforts have also led to an increase in key environmental health indicators.
“The return of sensitive species and the recovery of the ecological balance of Laguna Colombia confirm that the restoration program is successful. Punta Sur has become a living laboratory where nature responds positively when work is done with dedication and expertise,” he stated.
Among the most relevant evidence is the nesting of northern egrets on the central islet of Laguna Colombia, which has been managed by Cozumel’s children and youth since 2007, a clear indicator of ecosystem recovery.
Also noteworthy is the presence of pink flamingos in Laguna Chun Chacaab, demonstrating that the wetlands are achieving a more stable ecological balance.
These results reinforce the FPMC’s (Fundación de Parques y Museos de Cozumel) institutional commitment to environmental conservation and education, demonstrating that ecological restoration is possible through perseverance and dedication.
The program is distinguished by its practical, experiential learning approach, where people of all ages learn through direct contact with nature. Furthermore, it emphasizes community participation, with schools, social and environmental groups, and local volunteers joining the restoration efforts, strengthening a sense of belonging and promoting environmental education among younger generations.
In addition, the FPMC also provides theoretical and practical workshops that explain the importance of mangroves and the techniques for their recovery, consolidating a comprehensive working model.
Juanita Alonso Marrufo, the General Director of the FPMC, emphasized that these advances are part of the spirit of community participation, which is fundamental for environmental conservation.
“The success in Laguna Colombia demonstrates that when institutions and citizens work together, restoration is possible, and the FPMC will continue to strengthen these programs to protect Cozumel’s natural heritage,” she stated.
Riviera Maya News serving headline news for Cozumel since 2014
Your official online newspaper
