Environmental controversies in Baní, Dominican Republic

In late October 2026, residents and environmentalists in Baní protested the removal of historic oak and mango trees during a 57 million peso urban renovation project. Critics labeled the felling an “authentic urban ecocide,” contesting local authority claims that the trees were aging or damaging infrastructure.

By early November, environmental concerns expanded to the foothills of Cerro Gordo in Peravia province. Reports indicated that heavy machinery excavation and vegetation clearing, reportedly conducted by Constructora Danilo Cintrón, S. R. L., stripped native dry-forest vegetation. While the developer stated the work on private property is intended for eco-tourism facilities, the site is considered a vital ecological buffer and an Ecological Heritage site.

Regulatory responses to the Cerro Gordo activity have been conflicting. The National Institute of Hydraulic Resources indicated no objection to repairs on an irrigation canal berm, and the Ministry of Environment noted the land is outside the National System of Protected Areas. However, the Ministry clarified that such a designation does not serve as an environmental permit or authorization for land modification.