Balsas Protected Area Expands, Strengthening Ecological Corridor

11/19/2024

The expansion of the Balsas Protected Area in El Oro province is a significant step toward strengthening a regional ecological corridor that connects diverse and fragile ecosystems across southern Ecuador. What began in 2016 with 741 acres has now grown to 6,096 acres, enhancing the long-term protection of water sources, biodiversity, and critical wildlife habitats, while supporting the communities that rely on these landscapes. 

Part of a Larger Ecological Corridor 

This area is part of a larger effort to create a regional ecological corridor, linking the dry forests of the Puyango Petrified Forest with the foothill and lowland Andean forests of the Buenaventura and Moromoro Reserves. Covering more than 300,000 acres across 10 cantons (similar to U.S. counties), this expanding conservation network safeguards biodiversity, supports wildlife movement, and enhances climate resilience. 

Protecting Wildlife and Critical Water Sources 

Within the Catamayo-Alamor ecosystem, the Balsas Protected Area preserves vital evergreen forests across both piedmont and seasonal tropical zones. These forests provide a safe haven for unique wildlife, including the yellow-throated toucan (Ramphastos ambiguus) and the whooping motmot (Momotus subrufescens). 

Yellow-throated toucan call

In addition to providing habitat for wildlife, this area is essential for securing clean drinking water for local communities. It protects important water sources—including the Acacias, Santa Elena, El Milagro, and San Roquillo micro-watersheds—which provide fresh water to Balsas and nearby towns like Bellamaría and El Palmal. 

Threats and Challenges 

The Balsas Protected Area faces threats from deforestation, land-use changes, and expanding pig and poultry farms. To address these issues, the Municipal Government is developing a sustainable management plan that balances conservation, restoration, and responsible land use. Citizen contributions, collected through the potable water billing system, help fund this initiative. 

Next Steps for Conservation 

According to Nature and Culture technician Luis López, several priority actions have been outlined to strengthen the management of the Balsas Protected Area. A Management Committee of municipal authorities and community members will oversee conservation efforts. Additionally, strategic signage will be installed to mark the protected area and raise public awareness. Zoning plans will be implemented to designate areas for strict conservation, restoration, and sustainable production, ensuring responsible land use. Finally, conservation agreements with landowners will help protect vital water sources and restore sensitive ecosystems, reinforcing long-term sustainability. 

Strengthening Conservation Through Collaboration 

Since 2016, Nature and Culture has worked alongside the Balsas Municipal Government to strengthen conservation efforts in the region. This collaboration has been essential in identifying and mapping priority areas, developing municipal ordinances to guide conservation, and engaging local communities to foster awareness and long-term stewardship. 

This initiative demonstrates how partnerships between local governments, communities, and international organizations create lasting conservation impacts. As part of a larger regional effort, the Balsas Protected Area contributes to a sustainable conservation network, ensuring both biodiversity protection and community well-being for generations to come. 

The establishment of the Balsas Protected Area was made possible by the Municipal Government of Balsas, Nature and Culture, and with financial support from Andes Amazon Fund.