An update on aquatic conservation activities in Cuatrociénegas, Coahuila, México

Authors: Dean Hendrickson

Year: 2024

Abstract

Following Desert Fishes Council’s long support of a field station, and holding two of its annual meetings there, conservation actions in the valley diminished for many years and regional groundwater exploration expanded, decreasing water levels in the valley. Following federal declaration of the town as a “Pueblo Mágico”, private tourism investment soared, with now more than 30 hotels open, most catering to wealthier individuals. Some of the hotels own large properties in the valley that now support diverse tourism activities, and new foundations linked to hotels now have conservation as part of their business plan. One foundation now operates a first-class museum focused on basic science, ecology and biodiversity education, complete with a molecular lab for both research (their focus is on bioprospecting) and education of local children, with active programs that take kids to the field for biodiversity sampling. They also provide college scholarships to local students. Recent meetings with both the federal government Reserve and foundations resulted in solicitation of new collaborations with others for assistance with diverse ecological research to benefit conservation actions and groundwater conservation.