El Cielo Biosphere Reserve authorities initiate community governance talks

Authorities in Tamaulipas, Mexico, are working with local communities, municipalities, and civil organizations to establish an Advisory Council for the El Cielo Biosphere Reserve. The initiative aims to strengthen governance and create a participatory framework for decisions regarding conservation, sustainable development, and economic activities within the protected area.

Working sessions held in Gómez Farías included representatives from Jaumave, Llera, and Gómez Farías, alongside ejidatarios, federal agencies, and academic groups. The goal is to update the Reserve's Management Program and ensure that local inhabitants are directly involved in managing the territory's natural wealth. Daniel Alejandro Peñaloza Medellín, director of Natural Resources and Protected Area Management at SEDUMA, noted that these meetings follow previous consultations in Ocampo, Gómez Farías, and Jaumave to address community needs and balance biodiversity protection with local well-being.