The Laguna Brava or “Yolnabaj” Lagoon is located in northwest Guatemala, on the border with México. This mountain lagoon is in one of the most isolated regions in the country and harbors one of the last remnants of the region’s montane tropical forest. Located between 711 and 1,788 m above sea level, the Yolnajab Lagoon, with its tributary rivers and the forested karstic mountains surrounding it, is one of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in Guatemala. The 450 ha property to be acquired and established as a Nature Reserve is located within the lagoon’s watershed, and encompasses almost 30% of the water surface and surrounding forested remnants, in the northeast portion of the Lagoon. The “Finca Los Celajes” property is therefore vital for the conservation of the region´s unique ecosystems.
The site is critical for the survival of several endangered amphibians including the Phantom Treefrog (Ptychohyla dendrophasma) (CR) that is endemic to the Laguna Brava of Guatemala, making it an Alliance for Zero Extinction species. Other Critically Endangered frogs at the site include Perkins’ Treefrog (Exerodonta perkinsi) and Copan Stream Frog (Ptychohyla hypomykter). Two threatened birds at the site include the Highland Guan (Penelopina nigra) (VU) and Pink-headed Warbler (Ergaticus versicolor) (VU).
FUNDAECO was founded in 1990 and has successfully promoted protected areas and sustainable community development in Guatemala. During this period, FUNDAECO has successfully lobbied the National Congress for the legal declaration of two new protected areas in the country, and has presented two new laws for the creation of two additional National Protected Areas. FUNDAECO has also supported the establishment of Municipal Parks (4), Community Nature Reserves (11) and Private Reserves (11). FUNDAECO has also supported community land titling, forest protection subsidies for communities and sustainable agroforestry.
The 450 ha property will be purchased for a total of $246,000. A sum of $56,000 has been paid to date leaving $190,000 in funds needed to complete the purchase.
The Laguna Brava Reserve will constitute the only protected area for several highly threatened frogs, including one that is only found at the site.
© 2012 Global Wildlife Conservation