Yucatán implements water protections following contamination reports

The Government of Yucatán has announced a freeze on new authorizations for pig farms following reports of water contamination in 17 wells and cenotes. The Secretary of Sustainable Development (SDS) introduced four key measures to tighten control over the industry: halting new permits, establishing a water quality monitoring network in collaboration with the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), requiring investments in wastewater treatment, and increasing coordination with Semarnat and Profepa to inspect and sanction non-compliance.

The decision follows findings from Greenpeace Mexico and the Red To’oné Ja’o’on, which reported organic matter, bacteria, and fecal indicators in several sampling points. Additionally, studies using the Pig2Bac molecular marker have been used to detect porcine-associated material in the region.

In a parallel effort to strengthen water governance, the National Water Commission (Conagua) is analyzing the feasibility of establishing the Eastern Yucatán Basin Commission (COCORY). This body would serve as an auxiliary organ to the Yucatán Peninsula Basin Council, aiming to coordinate the management of resources across 26 municipalities. This region is critical for water recharge, as it sits above the world’s longest continuous underground river system, including the Dos Ojos and Sac Actun flooded caves.