Alto Mayo Protection Forest

Preserving Peru's Natural Treasure

Perched in the northern reaches of Peru, the Alto Mayo Protection Forest stands as a vital sanctuary, spanning an expansive 182,000 hectares (450,000 acres) within the San Martín region. This protected forestland not only safeguards a portion of the Peruvian Yungas ecoregion but also plays a crucial role in preserving the upper Mayo River basin, shielding soil and water from the erosive impact of deforestation. The Alto Mayo serves as the lifeblood for populations in the Mayo valley, serving as their primary water source.

Situated in the eastern part of the Peruvian Andes, the Alto Mayo region unfolds its mountainous terrain with slopes exceeding 70% gradient in certain areas. Eleven main tributaries of the Mayo River originate within this protected expanse, underscoring its significance in maintaining the delicate ecological balance of the surrounding landscape.

Despite its protected status, the Alto Mayo Forest has faced formidable challenges, including one of the highest deforestation rates in the country. Contributing factors such as insufficient enforcement of protective measures, the construction of a national highway traversing the forest, an influx of settlers, and unsustainable agricultural practices have taken a toll. In a cyclical pattern, depleted soil has led to increased deforestation as farmers seek to maintain production levels.

In response to this critical situation, Conservation International, in collaboration with local communities, corporations, and the Peruvian government, has embarked on a mission to safeguard the Alto Mayo Forest. This collaborative effort aims to address the root causes of deforestation and promote sustainable land use practices that ensure the longevity of this vital ecosystem.

The primary threats facing this protected area include illegal settlements by farmers engaging in agriculture, the extraction of wild orchids and animals for commercial purposes, timber harvesting, and unsustainable fishing practices. To counteract these threats, a multi-faceted approach involving community engagement, corporate responsibility, and governmental support has been implemented to secure the future of the Alto Mayo Protection Forest.

This biodiverse haven is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including the yellow-tailed woolly monkey, spectacled bear, cougar, Peruvian night monkey, Rio Mayo titi, and giant armadillo. Avian species enrich the forest with their presence, featuring the Andean cock-of-the-rock, oilbird, king vulture, equatorial grey tail, long-whiskered owlet, swallow-tailed kite, razor-billed curassow, Andean guan, speckled chachalaca, blue-grey tanager, white-throated toucan, and many more.

The botanical wealth of the Alto Mayo Protection Forest is equally impressive, boasting a variety of tree species like cedro (Cedrela odorata), requia (Guarea trichilioides), rifari (Miconia longifolia), ojé (Ficus insipida), cetico (Cecropia sp.), and many others. Orchids, including Phragmipedium boisserianum and Masdevallia vargasii, add a touch of exotic beauty to the rich tapestry of flora.

In conclusion, the Alto Mayo Protection Forest emerges not only as a haven for biodiversity but also as a testament to the resilience of collaborative conservation efforts. As stakeholders join forces to combat deforestation and promote sustainable practices, the Alto Mayo stands poised to continue its role as a vital ecological cornerstone, securing the future of this natural treasure for generations to come.