Spotlight
RAMSAR SITE STATUS UPDATE FOR THE INFIERNILLO CANAL
Waterbird monitoring in Estero Sargento
Since 2012, the Center has collaborated to use the Ramsar sites designation (Wetlands of International Importance) as a tool for promoting legal and community-based protection for Laguna la Cruz. This season we expanded that effort to the Infiernillo Canal within the Comcaac Territory. The objective is to update the Ramsar site status as one tool for supporting the Comcaac community in maintaining the ecological character and essential function and value of the Infiernillo Canal.
The Canal was designated as a Ramsar Site in 2009, which requires a renewal process every 6 years. The Center facilitated multiple dialog sessions with Comcaac groups in order to assess initial interest, develop plans for the study, and discuss the importance of estuaries and sea grass beds in order for the Comcaac to identify community conservation priorities. We then worked with the Comcaac, the University of Arizona, and CONANP to conduct an integrated rapid assessment process resulting in the documentation of ecological, human, and cultural factors in this incredibly rich and important wetland complex.
Canal del Infiernillo Rapid Assessment workshop
Red mangrove on the west side of the Infiernillo Canal
All of the Center's staff and programs, Prescott College students, and Comcaac community members contributed to this effort. Beyond the completion of the Rapid Assessment, this 9 month process facilitated community organization around important bio-cultural themes. Ramsar sites bring international attention to wetlands, and when combined with other conservation tools they raise awareness, funding, and best practices for conservation.
8
