Colombia wetland ecosystems face environmental pressure and restoration efforts

Environmental challenges and restoration efforts are underway across different wetland ecosystems in Colombia. In Cartagena, the Ciénaga de la Virgen is facing significant ecological pressure. Data indicates the water surface has shrunk from approximately 2,660 hectares in 1987 to roughly 2,100 hectares in 2007. This decline is attributed to human interventions, including land reclamation, mangrove removal, and illegal occupations in areas such as Olaya Herrera and El Pozón, which have disrupted the local hydraulic systems.

Meanwhile, in the Magdalena department, the Regional Autonomous Corporation of Magdalena (Corpamag) is working to restore the Ciénaga de Cerro de San Antonio. The initiative involves the manual removal of 56,500 square meters of floating aquatic vegetation. This project aims to improve hydraulic flow and facilitate navigation for local fishing communities in Candelaria, Concepción, and Jesús del Monte, while also incorporating topographic surveys and environmental education.