Profepa halts illegal logging in 2,600+ hectares of Yucatán jungle

Mérida, Mexico — The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) has temporarily closed seven properties in the states of Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo after uncovering the illegal clearing of more than 2,600 hectares of jungle in forested areas lacking authorization for land-use changes.

The enforcement actions stemmed from six operations conducted between May 28 and June 14, which identified vegetation removal and the establishment of agroindustrial monocultures. According to the agency, the damage was concentrated in regions experiencing agricultural expansion by Mennonite communities, primarily affecting medium subperennial, low thorny, and medium subdeciduous jungles.

Authorities seized 108.5 cubic meters of roundwood and squared timber, along with agricultural machinery and tools, including three towers, a 36-disc harrow, a harvester, and three tractors.

Quintana Roo: Logging of Protected Species

In José María Morelos municipality, within the Piedras Negras ejido, Profepa inspectors and Mexican Army personnel documented unauthorized land-use changes across 10.68 hectares and the illegal removal of over 1,000 cubic meters of jungle vegetation. Among the affected species were mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) and chit palm (Thrinax radiata), both protected under NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010 and CITES regulations.

Meanwhile, in the Juan Sarabia ejido, Othón P. Blanco, inspectors recorded the illegal clearing of 437.5 hectares, including protected species such as jobillo (Astronium graveolens), guano kum (Cryosophila argentea), and zamia palm (Zamia polymorpha).

Campeche: Over 500 Hectares Destroyed

In Hopelchén, Campeche, nine deforested zones spanning 527 hectares were identified. Activities included land preparation for crops and the elimination of forest vegetation. In addition to imposing full temporary closures, authorities confiscated agricultural equipment, including three tractors, a harvester, and a trailer.

Yucatán: Evidence of Burning and Soil Transformation

In Tekax, Yucatán, 350 hectares were cleared in the San Diego Buenavista area. Inspectors found charred remains of mature trees and herbaceous vegetation, alongside evidence of heavy machinery, irrigation systems, and subsurface drilling. Access roads lined with sascab (limestone gravel) and fixed concrete structures confirmed the complete transformation of the forest ecosystem.

Regional Enforcement Operations

Profepa’s operations resulted in the closure of seven properties: two in Campeche, two in Yucatán, and three in Quintana Roo. The total damage breaks down as follows:

• Campeche: 702 hectares
• Yucatán: 606.4 hectares
• Quintana Roo: 1,300.5 hectares

Combined, the deforested area totals 2,608.9 hectares.

Profepa announced it will maintain permanent operations in the region to curb illegal deforestation, enforce environmental regulations, and pursue comprehensive restoration of the affected ecosystems.