GUATEMALA
EcoLogic technicians have guided us in improved methods for seed collection and germination, transplanting of the seedlings to bags, the adequate filling of the bags, and have taught us about the proper methods and distances for reforestation. It is very important to me that I can contribute to the recovery of areas that have been previously degraded by illegal logging, forest fires, and the advance of the agricultural frontier.
- Walfre, Forest Technician for the Municipality of San Sebastián
What We Do
With the project activites we seek:
Community-led Forest Restoration: Conserve 7,702 ha. in 62 communities involved in the process of conserving natural resources in an inclusive and participatory manner and restore 80 hectares of flora and fauna habitat in degraded areas through reforestation
Sustainable Agriculture: Establish agroforestry systems with the support of local forest technicians, women's groups, and community leaders.
Economic Incentives: Reduce pressure on the forest by responding to the economic needs of 75 families by implementing at least two alternatives that generate economic income with the active participation of women and youth.
Map
Ethnic Groups:
Population Size:
Languages:
Economic Activites:
Poverty Rate:
Project Area:
Ecosystem:
Endangered Species:
15,000
Chuj, Kanjobal, Mestizo
Chuj, Kanjobal, Spanish
Farming, timber, palm oil plantations
77%
121,116 hectares
Central American Montane Forests
Quetzal, Horned guan, Guatemalan fir, Pine forest stream frog
Key Facts
Stats
Video
Partner
MFN is an alliance of 6 municipalities in the departments of Quiché and Huehuetenango, Guatemala that works to encourage the protection and sustainable management of natural resources in the region. Its general assembly is made up of the members of the 6 municipal councils, a board composed of 6 mayors, who are the legal representatives of each municipality. Each municipality in turn has a Municipal Development Council (known as COMUDE) integrated by municipal authorities, representatives of institutions, and representatives of each community through the Community Development Councils (known as COCODES).
Community-led Forest Conservation and Management in Northern Guatemala
Oil-palm plantations, cattle ranching, and human settlements are putting intense pressure on the standing forest in Ixcán and threatening the health of local watersheds. In addition, infrastructure development—including hydroelectric dams, highway construction, and logging operations—are increasing social tensions and straining communities’ trust in the government while exhausting the local natural resource base. Climate change has exacerbated these issues, leading to droughts and mudslides that increase crop losses, hunger, and poverty.