The 37,668.85-hectare biological corridor, known as the La Corona-El Morgan management unit, stretches through the Multiple Use Zone of the Maya Biosphere Reserve (MBR) in Guatemala. This corridor strategically connects Laguna del Tigre National Park with Mirador-Río Azul National Park, ensuring genetic connectivity for biodiversity across the Reserve's core zones. With key areas like La Corona in the north-central part of the corridor and El Burral at its southern edge, this corridor plays a vital role in the conservation of threatened species and the preservation of essential ecosystems in the region.
Biodiversity and Archaeological Sites in La Corona
La Corona is one of the richest biodiversity areas within the tri-national Maya Forest (Guatemala, Mexico, and Belize), with notable populations of species like the Jaguar, Tapir, and White-lipped Peccary. Additionally, La Corona and El Burral have hosted active nesting sites of the Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao cyanoptera) since 2003. In these areas, WCS Guatemala has established monitoring stations and labs dedicated to macaw chick care, where the success of nesting and the health of wild chicks are closely monitored.
Culturally, La Corona holds significant value as it is home to an important archaeological site, historically known as SakNikte’. Though relatively small, this site contains high-quality sculptures and inscriptions narrating the history of Calakmul's rulers, the capital of the Kingdom of Kaan and a major rival of Tikal during the Late Classic Period. These records, including exceptional carvings, enhance the historical and cultural value of the area, adding another layer to its ecological importance.
ASOSELVA: Community-Based Management for Sustainable Conservation
In April 2024, the management concession for La Corona-El Morgan was granted to the Association of Agricultural and Forest Producers of Selva Maya (ASOSELVA by its acronym in Spanish). Legally registered in 2015 and comprising 55 members from San Andrés, Petén, ASOSELVA brings extensive expertise in managing non-timber forest products and conserving the MBR's natural resources. The 25-year concession allows ASOSELVA to conduct certified sustainable forest management for both timber and non-timber products, lead fire prevention initiatives, and restore habitats in areas reclaimed from illegal activities.
Under this agreement, ASOSELVA is committed to sustainably managing the La Corona-El Morgan unit, with support from WCS, which provides essential knowledge on biodiversity and conservation practices, including zoning reserved areas for sensitive and endangered species. This knowledge transfer is crucial for ensuring that corridor management positively impacts key species and conserves these ecosystems in the coming years.
Conservation Challenges
Despite its biodiversity and cultural significance, La Corona and El Burral face serious threats from deforestation and forest fires, largely due to settlers seeking to establish unauthorized communities. These pressures, originating mainly from the west of Laguna del Tigre National Park, jeopardize ecological connectivity and the health of regional ecosystems.
To address these challenges, WCS Guatemala, along with CONAP and other partners, has implemented a protection strategy called "The Shield." This initiative aims to halt the expansion of the agricultural frontier and the establishment of new settlements by reinforcing key areas with permanent camps in El Yesal-El Burral and La Corona. These camps, operated by personnel from CONAP, WCS, and partners, not only deter illegal activities but also facilitate the maintenance of firebreaks and patrols to monitor real-time threats. Governance in the area is crucial, and ASOSELVA's involvement is a significant step toward the long-term protection of these critical habitats.
With the concession granted to ASOSELVA, La Corona-El Morgan stands as a model of community-based forest management, where the conservation of biodiversity and Mayan cultural sites is entrusted to those who best understand its value. Through ongoing collaboration with WCS and CONAP and by implementing certified management practices, ASOSELVA is expected to contribute to the conservation and recovery of threatened species and sensitive ecosystems, ensuring that this section of the biological corridor remains well-preserved for decades to come.