Sinaloa Wetlands

The coastal wetlands of Sinaloa constitute some of the most important wintering and foraging sites for diverse species of migratory anatidae and shorebird species in the Northwest of Mexico. These wetlands are located within the migratory corridor of the Pacific and contain muddy flats, islands, mangroves, esteros and sand dunes. The habitats of the wetlands of the south of Sonora sustain great biodiversity, including more than 300 migratory and resident bird species.

Severe negative ecological impacts to the wetlands of Sinaloa are the result of the lack of coastal environmental planning. Specifically, activities related to shrimp aquaculture have caused significant loss of coastal habitat. During the decades of the 80´s and 90´s, these activities grew exponentially without any regulations or controls. The cultivation of shrimp in coastal wetlands has declined since previous decades due to economic problems and the presence of various diseases in cultivated shrimp populations. The remnants of this industry can still be seen in the coastal wetlands, evidenced by abandoned drains and reservoirs that litter the landscape.

Pronatura Northwest is committed to stopping the degradation of areas currenty in good condition within the wetlands of the Sinaloa, while promoting the recouperation of abandoned areas that were once important habitats to migratory and resident bird species. In order to follow through with these commitments, Pronatura Northwest is utilizing legal tools for the conservation of these areas.

Currently, Pronatura Northwest has achieved the conservation in perpetuity of 6,500 hectares of coastal habitat in the Península de Lucenilla (Ensenada de Pabellones) by means of the establishment of a conservation easement. Additionally, the rehabilitation of areas once utilized for the cultivation of shrimp is at the center of the management plan for these wetlands. Pronatura Northwest is also working towards the acquisition, legal protection and rehabilitation of more than 500 hectares in Bahía Santa María.

Achievements: Conservation easement of 6,500 hectares in Península de Lucenilla; management plan and conservation action in Península de Lucenilla; acquisition process and legal protection of more than 500 hectares in Bahía Santa María.

Conservation Objectives: Mangrove forests, coastal dunes, deciduos tropical forest, migratory and resident bird species.

Critical Species: Playerito Westen sandpiper, Least tern, Clapper rail, Greater white-fronted goose, Pacific Ridley turtle.