Effectiveness of management of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor in Mexico

Abstract

As a project of regional conservation, the purpose of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor in Mexico (MMBC) was to maintain landscape connectivity to ensure the permanence of species and ecological processes. This study appraised the effectiveness of the MMBC management implemented in two Mexican states: Chiapas and Tabasco. The analysis covered the period from design to termination of the project (2000-2018). An evaluation of the MMBC management effectiveness was conducted based on documentary research, mapping of actors, structured interviews, qualitative analysis and application of indicators. The conceptualization of the MMBC had its origin in international organizations and was implemented with a top-down approach at local scale and support from various stakeholders, including governmental and nongovernmental organizations, consultancy agencies and private and community landowners. In both states, the effectiveness of the MMBC management was considered as good, based on strengths such as the adequate design and implementation of actions and the multi-level participation of the stakeholders. However, the consultancy agencies responsible for the management of the MMBC were unable to become self-financed, limiting the long-term continuity of corridor projects. The configuration of the corridor landscapes, which was initially based on ecological criteria, later became subordinate to the acceptance of some landowners, as a key aspect. Implementation became governed by the technical and political processes of negotiation among the stakeholders involved. Ultimately, corridors remained only within the lands where landowners had accepted and cooperated with the MMBC projects.