Junín Conservation Area Protects Tropical Forests Along Ecuador’s Pacific Coast

On December 16, 2024, the Junín Municipal Conservation and Sustainable Use Area was officially established, representing a significant milestone in protecting the ecosystems and water resources of the Manabí Province of Ecuador. The new conservation area in Junín spans 28,410 acres (11,497 hectares) of dry and evergreen tropical forests along the Pacific coastal range of Ecuador, an essential habitat for endangered species. The establishment of Junín brings the total acreage of AAF supported protected and conserved areas in the province of Manabí up to 984,310 acres (398,336 hectares) of biodiverse territories.

Junín is home to remarkable biodiversity, including the vulnerable black-headed spider monkey (Ateles fusciceps) and the Esmeraldas woodstar (Chaetocercus berlepschi), a rare, tropical hummingbird found only in this region. Deforestation in this area has threatened the habitat of these species. Additionally, the conservation area safeguards 10 critical water sources that provide clean water to more than 26,000 people. The establishment of the conservation area strengthens Junín’s role as a key part of the Pacific water network, an essential system for ensuring water security in Manabí Province and beyond.

Through a partnership between Nature and Culture International (NCI), La Fundación Bosques, Mares y Comunidades (BOMACO), and the Provincial Government of Manabí, key areas with high conservation potential were identified through technical studies conducted with input from local communities.

Per José Romero, a Project Coordinator for Nature and Culture International:  “The designation of Junín is a major accomplishment that protects natural heritage and safeguards vital water sources for the communities that depend on them.”

The ecosystems of Junín have faced threats from deforestation driven by agricultural and livestock expansion. To address these challenges, efforts are underway to develop a sustainable management plan in partnership with local communities and government authorities which aims to strengthen land stewardship, promote sustainable practices, and ensure the long-term conservation of the area through active community engagement.

José Palma, a resident of Andarieles in Junín, emphasized the importance of the management initiative:

“With the creation of the Junín Protected Area, we can preserve these vital water resources that so many people depend on. Times are changing, and deforestation is a growing problem. We have critical water sources, but they haven’t been cared for as they should be. We must act now, planting native trees and working together as a community to protect them. If we don’t, we’ll face serious problems in the future.”

Acknowledgements: 

The establishment of the Junín municipal conservation area was made possible by the municipal government of Junín. Technical support was provided by Fundación Bosques, Mares y Comunidades (BOMACO) and Nature and Culture International – Ecuador with the financial support of the Andes Amazon Fund.