Five Properties Closed in Yucatán Reserves for Damaging Mangroves and Dunes

Authorities have closed down five properties located within the Biosphere Reserves of Celestún and Río Lagartos in Yucatán, Mexico, due to significant environmental damage. The Procuraduría Federal de Protección al Ambiente (Profepa) led the operation, identifying illegal occupation of coastal areas and the felling of vegetation as primary causes for the closures.

During inspections, officials discovered extensive damage, including felled and burned vegetation, the removal of 2,578 square meters of mangrove, and the filling of a wetland. Additionally, 274 square meters of the Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone were occupied without the necessary concessions. Profepa has imposed a total temporary closure and is preparing to file a criminal complaint.

These closures are the result of a nationwide operation coordinated by Profepa and the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp). The operation specifically targeted the Río Celestún and Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserves, which are recognized as vital wetlands in the Yucatán Peninsula. They play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and providing essential environmental services, such as hurricane protection for coastal communities.

The environmental protection actions are part of a broader national effort spanning 33 Protected Natural Areas across 25 states. The stated objective of this extensive deployment is to halt illegal land-use changes and the irregular occupation of sensitive coastal ecosystems, aiming to preserve their ecological integrity.