INTEGRATED WATERSHED MANAGEMENT FOR MEXI

The Mexicanos and Bustillos lagoons in the state of Chihuahua represent two of the most important wetland complexes for migratory and resident bird species in the Northern Highlands region, including mallard, Northern pintail, lesser scaup, long-billed curlew, and mountain plover, black-necked stilt, whimbrel, dunlin, ruddy turnstone, short-billed dowitcher, willet and lesser yellowlegs.

Both lagoons are priority sites in the national strategies for the conservation of waterfowl and shorebirds in Mexico.

One of the main threats these wetlands are facing is associated with the expansion of farming activities, which have caused soil erosion and increased sedimentation.

Another problem for both watersheds is the lack of sanitary infrastructure in rural communities, resulting in large amounts of organic material flowing into the wetlands.

This project will enhance 1,272 acres in Mexicanos Lagoon; enhance 156 acres of uplands adjacent to Mexicanos lagoon by controlling soil erosion; and enhance 549 acres in Bustillos lagoon through moist soil management units.

It will also set up conservation agreements for 11,273 acres with Ejido Vista Hermosa and with the sustainable use area Laguna Mexicanos; establish monitoring systems for Mexicanos and Bustillos lagoons; improve habitat quality by reducing the input of organic material to both wetlands; and train 320 people through a 'Teaching the Teachers' environmental education program and through workshops on low impact agricultural and ranching practices.