Del Monte al Mar
Watershed management promotes the conservation of waterbodies by addressing land-based sources of pollution at the source through the implementation of best management practices that reduce stressors on important aquatic ecosystems, including coral reefs and seagrass beds. Protectores de Cuencas, Inc. (PDC), in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and other key local watershed partners in Puerto Rico, planned and implemented the Learning Exchange Network. Through this initiative PDC coordinated various activities in priority watersheds across Puerto Rico and compiled key messages, recommendations, and presentations from local watershed managers.
Learning Exchange
GUÁNICA — LAJAS — YAUCO
The Guánica watershed has benefitted from collaborative management strategies between the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources of Puerto Rico, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations such as PDC. One of the main challenges that remains is the effects of agricultural practices (e.g., excessive pesticide application) in the upper watershed area that reach coastal ecosystems.
LUQUILLO — FAJARDO — CEIBA
The Fajardo Watershed is home to many residential areas that lack proper septic systems. This contributes to the arrival of excess nutrients to coastal areas. This watershed would benefit from projects such as wetland restoration, riparian buffers, road stabilization, among others.
HUMACAO — YABUCOA — MAUNABO
These watersheds are in an ecologically sensitive area that includes the Punta Tuna Coastal Wetland Natural Reserve, the Pterocarpus forests Natural Reserves, and the marine reserve of Punta Yeguas. Water monitoring data collected by PDC shows high nutrient inputs from failing septic systems and grey waters.
VEGA BAJA
One of the biggest challenges for this watershed is the influence of untreated sewer waters that reach the largest population of Acropora palmata in federal waters. This species is classified as a threatened species of high importance.
CABO ROJO
One of the main areas of restoration interest within this watershed is the Cabo Rojo Salt Flats. A restoration project is expected to begin in 2024 and will include the collaboration of federal, state and nonprofit organizations.