Cozumel Mangrove Restoration Achieves Ecological Balance

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Mangrove restoration in the Laguna Colombia State Ecological Reserve, located in the Punta Sur ecotourism park, is advancing with solid and measurable results that confirm the success of the program promoted by the Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC).

During 2025, the work covered an area of 5,500 square meters, with actions oriented toward maintaining hydrological flow, raising terraces, and dispersing propagules in development zones, strengthening the recovery of the wetland.

The director of Punta Sur, Jesús Benavides, highlighted that the efforts have allowed for the observation of an increase in key environmental health indicators.

“The return of sensitive species and the recovery of the ecological balance of Laguna Colombia confirm that the restoration program is successful. Punta Sur has become a living laboratory where nature responds when worked with dedication and knowledge,” he stated.

Among the most relevant evidence is the nesting of roseate spoonbills on the central islet of Laguna Colombia, which was intervened by Cozumel’s children and youth since 2007, a clear indicator of ecosystem recovery, as well as the presence of pink flamingos in the Chun Chacaab lagoon.

This demonstrates that the wetlands are reaching a more stable ecological balance, results that reinforce the institutional commitment of the FPMC to environmental conservation and education, showing that ecological restoration is possible.

The program is distinguished by a practical approach based on experiential learning, where people of all ages learn in direct contact with nature.

Additionally, community participation stands out, as schools, social and environmental groups, and local volunteers have joined the restoration days, strengthening belonging and promoting environmental education in new generations.

Furthermore, the FPMC also conducts theoretical and practical workshops that explain the importance of mangroves and techniques for their recovery, consolidating a comprehensive work model.

Finally, the general director of the FPMC, Juanita Alonso, emphasized that these community advances are fundamental for environmental conservation.

“The success in Laguna Colombia demonstrates that when institutions and citizens work together, restoration is possible, and the FPMC will continue strengthening these programs to protect Cozumel’s natural heritage,” she noted.