5,000 Hectares in Puerto Morelos Now Protected

Puerto Morelos, QR — The National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) has officially designated 5,000 hectares of land in Puerto Morelos as a protected area. The land was voluntarily designated by the Yun Kaax Ejidos, marking a significant step in conservation efforts for the region.

A Commitment to Conservation

During a ceremony held at the Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín Botanical Garden’s open-air theater, José de Jesús Espinosa Payán, Secretary General of the City Council, emphasized Puerto Morelos’ dedication to environmental protection. Speaking on behalf of Mayor Blanca Merari Tziu Muñoz, Espinosa Payán stated, “Puerto Morelos once again demonstrates its commitment as a green municipality dedicated to the protection and conservation of nature with the certification of the Yum Kaax protected natural area.”

The event included the presentation of the “Voluntarily Designated Conservation Area (ADVC) Certificate for Yum Kaax” to the Puerto Morelos Ejido. The Ejido members voluntarily allocated 5,000 hectares of communal land for conservation, recognizing its ecological significance.

Ecological Significance and Species Protection

Fernando Orozco Ojeda, Regional Director of the Yucatán Peninsula and Mexican Caribbean for CONANP, highlighted the ecological importance of Yum Kaax, also known as the “Lord of the Jungle.” The area serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds and 27 at-risk species protected under NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010.

In recognition of its environmental value, CONANP issued Certificate 605/2025 on March 4, 2025, officially establishing the Yum Kaax ADVC. This marks the tenth and largest conservation zone in the state of Quintana Roo, spanning 5,000 hectares of terrestrial land.

Local Leadership and Conservation Efforts

Prior to receiving the certification, Rubén Montoya Mex, Commissioner of the Puerto Morelos Ejido, underscored the importance of safeguarding the area, which serves as a vital water and forest system for Quintana Roo. “This designation will ensure the ongoing protection of water resources and contribute to the conservation of over 166 species,” Montoya Mex stated.

The certificate was formally presented to Ejido members Rubén Montoya Mex, Martha Alicia Álvarez Tostado, Mirza Margarita Povedano, and Juan Pablo León Pinto.

The move solidifies Puerto Morelos’ role as a leader in environmental stewardship, balancing development with the preservation of its natural heritage.