Construction of an Operative Centre in Zoh Laguna, Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Campeche

Pronatura Peninsula de Yucatan, A. C., has assisted in the conservation of the Calakmul region since 1987 and in conjunction with academic organisations promoted the cartography and basic studies for the creation of the reserve. In the 1990s several projects were undertaken in organic agriculture, apiculture, ecotourism, conservation and management of resources and environmental education. Through these activities local trained work groups were created, which consequentially have formed their own groupings helping with consultancy and capacity building of other groups in the region.
To undertake these projects, Pronatura Peninsula de Yucatan (PPY) required basic infrastructure. For this purpose a terrain was acquired from the Ejido of Zoh Laguna on which a cabin of wood and palm was constructed, which was used as office and housing for staff and others working in the field. However, at present, the structure is in a bad state of repair and the cost of restoration is high.
One of the lessons learnt during these years of work is that, to achieve our mission, we require a permanent and strategic presence in the reserves where we are working. This permits the technical team to have an accurate perception of the problems and needs, and at the same time the local population sees them as part of the community. Therefore it is important to be able to rely on an infrastructure that permits PPY to carry out its objectives and goals in the region.
Construcción del Centro Operativo en Zoh Laguna, Reserva de la Biosfera de Calakmul, Campeche

Objectives

Consolidate the presence of Pronatura in the area, and strengthen the relationship with community groups and institutions that work in the reserve.
Ensure a space for capacity building and training of local and regional technical groups
Open a space to share experiences and promote strategic alliances between Mexico and Guatemala as well as among the states of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Expectations

The present project places the construction of the PPY Operative Centre in the community of Zoh Laguna, situated in the Biosphere Reserve of Calakmul. The buildings will consist of three sections: dormitories, office-library and bathrooms with an estimated construction surface of 400 m2 .

Results

At this stage finances are available for the construction of the dormitory section, which will have the capacity to accommodate between 15 and 20 people. This can hopefully be completed in 3 or 4 months.