The Fourth Forum of the Sierra Cóndiro-Canales and the Sierra de Mezcala was held at the Centro Universitario de la Ciénega's La Barca campus on April 23, bringing together government officials, academics, producers, and civil society organizations to discuss the importance of conserving the region's mountainous areas. The forum aimed to strengthen conservation, restoration, and sustainable management efforts in these key regions, which provide water recharge, biodiversity protection, and disaster risk reduction. The event was organized by the Corazón de la Tierra Institute and CUCiénega.
During the forum, three working groups met to address forest conservation, agroecology, and the implementation of regenerative techniques in agriculture, livestock farming, and beekeeping. Participants analyzed progress, challenges, and organizational processes among stakeholders involved, highlighting the importance of practices like agroecology and regenerative livestock farming in reducing the use of agrochemicals and pressure on forest areas. The organizers emphasized that these efforts promote environmental conservation and water quality for Lake Chapala.
The forum also featured the Third Exchange of Experiences among Field Schools of the Ciénega de Chapala, where a network comprising 11 schools was announced. These schools are recognized for their success stories in agricultural and livestock production, including corn, chayote, cattle, vegetables, and honey. The event had additional support from international organizations and Semadet as part of efforts to promote sustainable development in the region.
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