South AmericaColombiaNorth PacificChocóSolano BayMecana

South America Colombia

LOCATION

ContinentCountry

AreaDepartmentMunicipality

Community

Pacific /ChocoSolano Bay

La Resaquita stram

Q La Adelita

Mecana River

Mecana

PACIFICOCEAN

BoundaryNeighborsMangroveEstuariesStreamsCropsT. Rain forestReforestationBeachTracksPastures

Average temperature... 26˚C • 78.8˚F

Rainfall... 4980 mm • 0.3038 inch

Life forms... Neotropical forest bottom [hygrophyte] native mangroves, estuaries, rivers, streams and sea. Marine and continental fauna: mammals, birds, fungi, reptiles, amphibians, bats, entomofauna, zética (fish, molluscs, crustaceans, whales, turtles microorganisms ...], [sporocarps, saprophytes, micorrígidos ...

Topography ... Relieves vary from 0-500m: Beach, hills, mountains, rivers.

TECHNICAL DATA

Surface ... 170 Hectares distributed as follows: 120 H. Virgin Tropical Rain Rainforest 25 H. Mangrove swamps and waterways 10 H. Reforestation of native trees and in danger species of extinction: Abarco•Cariniana piriformis Choibá•Dipteryx oleífera Cedar•Cedrella odorata Oak•Tabebuia rosea, and others. 12 H. Vegetable’s greenhouse and self- suficient grow area with: Borojó•Borojoa patinoi, cocoa, bananas, plantains. 3 H. Sustainable farm: Cows, pack mule, chicken, hen and organic eggs. 500 linear meters of beach.

PROJECTS

Forest Reserveand wildlife

Restoration and silviculturalmanagement of mangrove,forestsand degraded areas

Botanical Garden

Environmental educationand childrens’ social work

Animal’s Recovery Center

Turtle’s protection area

Self sustainable Vegetablegreenhouse and medicinal garden

Ecotourism

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Enabling a space for the protection of flora and fauna of the biogeographic choco.Recovery of eroded and deforested areas.Mangroves and estuaries recover with assisted regeneration.Generate a germplasm bank for reproduction and sale of native species and in danger of extinction.Enable an area for research and exhibition of ex-situ collec-tions of plants in the reserve.Creating spaces for education, recreation and environmental awareness in rural areas.Put a crossing point for the recovery of animals in captivity and animals seized by the C.A.R., to release within the reserve and ensure their safe environment.Restore the ecosystem of the Turtles for the incubation of their eggs and the subsequent release of the young.Plant a self-sufficient vegetable garden to provide basic food for the people involved in the reserve and surrounding regions.Establish a garden with medicinal plants for personal use and for sale.Planting palm species that indigenous handicrafters use to manufacture their crafts and sell them at the JBP. Build 8 low-impact palapa style cabins for a sustainable ecotourist logde inside the Reserve for the enjoyment of it and the rest of the activities.

OBJECTIVES MARKET

The habitants of the region and nearby hotels.Students, teachers, O.N.G and foundations.Scientists interested in studying and investigating the flora and fauna of the biogeographic choco and its endemic species.People interested in sustainable ecotourism and adventure.People interested in the products of the orchard crops, the sustainable vegetable garden and the gene bank.Media who want to document the projects.

HOW TO GET THERE

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ACTIVITIES AND PERMANENT ACTION PLANS

Bahia Solano is located in the equatorial rainforest in the Colombian Pacif ic. It is an area located between the Darien Gap and the basins of the Atrato and San Juan rivers. This ecoregion probably has the most rainfall on earth. The territory of Chocó is the natural space of native Embera and Wounaan cultures, which were called by the Spanish The “Chocoes”.

The wildlife reserve and botanical garden of the Pacific is a multifaceted area, tropical rain-forest, mangroves, beaches, giant marine wildlife, lush flora, animal protection center,adventure sports and relaxation. All concentrated in one place!

To reach the reserve the most appropriate way is by air, the cities of Bogota and Medellin have interna-tional airports, from there take a domestic flight to Bahia Solano, which has recently remodeled it’s small airport, upon arrival in Bahia take a "chiva"[Interesting Colombian colorful traditional bus], which takes 15 minutes to reach the harboronce you’re there, they are several boats that take you to the beach reserve in 20 minutes!.

You can also get a boat from the port of Buenaventura once a week but not so popular for passengers, it takes two days to arrive and not very comfortable, this boat is concentrated more in the load.

The security of the area is high because Solano Bay has a Naval Force Base, uppon request they can make base camps near the project doing walkings for constant recognition of the area by soldiers.

Collection and reproduction of seeds and plants for saleEstablishment and maintenance of gardens and green areas

Design and implementation of reforestation’s plansConsulting and production of organic fertilizers

Training in nursery work, gardening and landscapingForestry, Silviculture

The conservation and sustainable use of mangrove requires work and knowledge on many fronts as the preservation of freshwater inputs, conservation of the forest belt to maintain the stability of the coastline and prevent erosion, to provide permeability neces-sary for system stability and control and reduction of organic waste dumping and chemical. In the project’s mangrove you can find: "buttowood” (Pelliciera rhizophorae), “red mangrove” "(Rhizophora mangle), ”white mangrove” [Rizophora racemosa], “zuela”[Conocarpus erectus], “nato mangrove” [Mora oleifera], “Guino” [Carapa guianenis], We’re currently working on the resto-ration of mangroves and estuaries, which had been replaced before by another type of landscape outside the area. The process is being carried out as follows:

Recognition of erosion processes and primary plants.Selection of superior trees and species to plant.Seed dispersal by spontaneous and assisted regeneration, cuttings and seedling transplant.Tracking and monitoring.Organic and biological fertilization.Pruning and thinning.

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This area is currently in the process of deforestation and therefore the loss of local flora and fauna of great importance for the planet. Within the project is an area that was converted to pasture years ago, which are being reforested with native trees of great importance to the ecosystem. Another purpose the establishmentof a gene bank with species in danger of extinction such as the "Choiba” [Dicterys oleifera, large tree in Emberá], “Abarco” [Cariniana pyriformis] and a collection of palms. The purpose of this bank is:

We are Constantly monitoring all areas of predatory

recovery and re-populating with

native species.

THE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Focused on ecological conservation, classification of species and above all education and environmental awareness. Shall be open to scientists worldwide who want to conduct their investigations in order to maximize their potential that is still unknown and to the general public. It will be available to the scientific community to conduct:

Taxonomic identificationsFloristic inventories

Floristic characterizationsEnvironmental Impact Studies

Ethnobotanical studiesStudies of biodiversity and

ecosystem dynamicsStudy plans and conservation

of species in danger of extinctionAssessment and sustainable use of

non-timber and timber productsStudy and classification of endemic species

The IUCN (World Conservation Union] points out that the Chocó Biogeographic Province has the largest percentage of endemism in the world for a continental area and the mul-tiplicity of flora in the area is incredible, there is a significant percentage of the 220 species family Rubiaceae, 202 Melastomata-ceae , 147 Leguminoceae, 137 Piperaceae,

78 Orchidiaceae, among others.

Nato mangrove: Mora oleiferaThe Genipa: Genipa americanaAbarco: Caririniana pyriformisChoiba: Dicterys oleiferaChanul: Humiriastrum procerumTruntago, Milk tree: Euphorbia lataziMora: Chlorophora tinctoriaCedar: Cedrella odorataWild Cashew: Anacardium excelsumCopaiba tree: Copaifera officinalisRubber tree: Castilloa elásticaJacaranda: Bignoniaceae caucanaIce-cream-bean tree: Inga edulisPink Oak: Tabebuia roseaNargusta: Terminalia chiriquensisJatobá or Guapinol: Hymenaea courbarilJutahy Hardwood: Dialium guianenseBig-leaf mahogany: Swietenia macrophyllaBarrel Palm: Colpothrinax wrightiiSunshade palm: Mauritiella macrocladaWalking Palm or Cashapona: Socratea exorrhizaThousand pesos palm: Oenocarpus batauaPalm leaves head: Ammandra decasperma"Costillo" [Scientific name pending] highly endangered specie

The following species play an important role in the Choco ecosystem and for the world in general,mainly by the contribution and regulation of water resources, soil maintenance, air purification, enrichment and preservation of wildlife:

Substrate preparation areaSite Selection for Collections

Species distribution areasPropagation protocol

Assembly and installationPlotting, and tolling

PlantationFertilization

MaintenanceSilvicultural management

HerbalCollection and storage of samples

Identification and classificationPhoto Archive

Monitoring and inventoryof fauna and insect.

InventoriesHerbaceous species, shrubs, trees and ornamentals,

fungi, saprophytes, ghouls, mycorrhizal.

Living collections [ex-situ]ArboretumPalmetum

OrchidiariumFerns

Succulents, cacti and AgavaceaeHeliconia Garden

Garden of bromeliads and liliesGarden of endemic species

Installation of the nurserySeed

Rooting and meristem zoneEnabling and maintenance of fields

Irrigation DistributionManaging compost and worms humus

Initial activities

WILDLIFE

We’re continuously working on awareness in the community about the importance of all living things that inhabit the surround-ing area and we have stablished a safe place for animals that live there, with wardens that are given constant control and moni-toring hunters who want to enter the region and keep them away from the premises.

Make an inventory of fauna and insect fauna to take a census estimate and assess its recovery and development.

It is worth quoting some of the species seen in the region:Tamarin monkey [Saguinus geoffroyi]White-headed Capuchin [Cebus capuchinus]Big Squirrel [Sciurus granatensis]Small squirrel [Microsciurus cf. alfari]Chiure [Caluromys derbianus]Common Opossum [Didelphis marsupialis]Bushy-tailed Olingo [Bassaricyon gabbii, Potos flavus]water opossum [Chironectes minimus]Ocelot [(Leopardus tigrinus]Cougar [Felis concolor]

They suffer from high levels of hunting:Collared Peccary [Tayassu tajacu]South American Deer [Mazama americana]Aguoti [Dasyprocta punctata]Lowland Paca [Cuniculus paca]Nine-banded Armadillo [Dasypus novemcinctus]

They are in danger of extinction:Giant Anteater [Myrmecophaga Kittiwake]Jaguar [Felis onca]Brown Throated three-toed sloth [Bradypus variegatus]

Probably extinctWhite-lipped Peccary [Tayassu pecari]Baird's Tapir [Tapirus bairdi]

It’s also important to remark the Harlequin frog [Atelopus varius] and the South American Poisonous frogs , including "Dendrobates altobueyensis" that is endemic to the northeast of Bahia Solano.

In the Chocó have reported a total of 838 bird species of which 10 are endemic to this area, almost 50% of the avifauna of Colombia that is one of the richest in the world. It is worrying, not knowing about it, especially at this time that the national government intends to "develop" the Pacific region, regardless of the biotic resources of the area. We know very little about the behavior and state of the populations of many species of birds in the Pacific, so that’s another reason for opening the doors to scientists and amateurs to see the reserve as a center of watching and studying birds in the region and thus assess and disseminate the wealth unknown..

WATERBIRDS

There are over one hundred and twenty species of waterbirds recorded in the Colombian Pacific. The high diversity of these birds is due to several factors:

Many marine and coastal birds that currently under-take extensive migrations between the northern and southern hemispheres pass through the reserve. The proximity of the Humboldt Current. While this trend does not touch the Colombian coast, there are isolated groups of species such as guanay, the booby and several species of gulls that make stops in this lands.

The intertidal zone, which is exposed at low tide is very large, this is the most important foraging area for

many shorebirds, and gulls.

Mangroves are ideal places for forag-ing by several species of plovers and dunlins [Calidris alpina), the Great-tailed Grackle [Quiscalus mexicanus] in the cliffs and the sea, the seas’ Queen the Magnificent Frigatebird

[Fregata magnificens].

Several species of large hawks and eagles inhabit only the northern part of the Colombian Pacific and mountain hawks (Micrastur), the young Hawks [Accipiter] and Owl [Otus]. Several species are recorded only in these rain forests and are among the least known birds of the country in terms of habits and ecology, some are listed below:

LAND BIRDS

Parrots (Psittacidae)Pigeons (Columbidae)Curassows and turkeys (Cracidae)Toucans (Ramphastidae)Blue-crowned Motmot [Momutus momota]Amazonian Oropendola [Psarocolius bifasciatus]Trogon (Trogonidae]Umbrella bird [Cephalopterus pencluliger]Billed mountain-toucan (Andigena laminirostris)Andean Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana)Hummingbirds (Coeligena, Doryfera)Empress Brilliant (Heliodoxa imperatrix)Violet-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus coelestis)

And endemic species:Scale-backed Antbird [Hylophylax poecilinotus]Choco Toucan (Ramphastos brevis)Humboldt's Sapphire [Hylocharis (grayi) humboldtii]Sooty-capped Puffbird [Bucco noanamae]White-faced Nunbird (Hapaloptila castanea)Baudo Guan (Penelope ortoni]Colorful Puffleg [ Eriocnemis mirabilis] highly endangered

This last one is a specie threatened by persecution for the cage bird trade:Toucan Barbet (Semnornis ramphastinus)

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It is thought to emphasize in children's community so they’ll learn to value their resources, the environment in which they live, and understand the treasure they have. Be invited to educational entities in all activities of the reserve, in an entertaining way for children to become interested and learn from nature.

Adapt recovery and transition areas for confiscated animals that want to reinstate the environment, providing a protected space where they can readjust to the wild.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY AWARENESS

ANIMAL RECOVERY CENTER

TURTLE HATCHERYThe marine waters of the Colombian Pacific and specifically the Choco north coast are visited by several species of turtles considered threatened or endangered, such as:(1)_Olive Ridley turtle [Lepidochelys olivacea), (2)_The leatherback turtle

[Dermochelys coriacea] and in less quantity (3) _The Hawksbill turtle [Eretmochelys imbricata].

Years ago the Mecana beach was a turtle nesting area but due to predation, the population of turtles has declined by 90%. The project will generate a hatchery for incubation of eggs and the subsequent release of the newborn to sea.

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Solano Bay Area and its soroundings are isolated from "civilization" and all the familiar staples arrive by boat, which is why all products are expensive, in addition to the damage they suffered on the trip, and the short-age of vegetables and food is widespread. The purpose of the terraced vegetable gardens, is to supply the reserve and its members of staple foods such as vegetables, herbs and tubers among others, thereby reducing external dependence for the achievement of food and thus improve the quality of food in the region suffering from high levels of child malnutrition. We’ll also have a percentage available to supply the surrounding areas and thus enter the dynamics of sustainable agriculture, recognizing that the welfare of communities and ecosystems are interwoven and dependent on viable environmental development health and economically.

The generations prior to ours had a knowledge that was passed from generation to generation of the use of medicinal plants, this custom is dying; In an effort to get closer to the earth and its benefits, we are return-ing to these customs, having available a medicinal garden, where all we can recover this knowledge and take advantage of the benefits that plants bring to our lives.

Within the project is also an area with perennial crops like bananas, plantains, “murrapos”, borojó, pineapple, sugar cane, cocoa and rice. Is expected to maximize their properties and generate other activities with the harvest, and commercialize products derived from these, maintaining the sustainable model.

To complement this process we implemented a farm with laying hens, chickens and pigs.

In addition to these crops is to provide a small area to plant the palms that the artisans of the reserve required for its objects and to avoid entering protected areas to achieve them.

ECOTOURISM

Canopies and friendly tree-climbing (2011)Diving and snorkeling

Guided jungle walksBrowse through the mangroves, estuaries and river

Watching wildlife, insect fauna and flora in the forestKayaking on the river, estuaries and coast

Sightings of humpback whales and their calves [june-november]Recovery of turtle eggs and release of offspring [season]

Fishing: Bahia Solano is recognized as one of the most impor-tant sport fishery in the world as the season reaches: yellowfin

tuna, sailfish, marlin, snapper.

Playful children's workshopsWorking in the garden

NurseriesReforestation

It is a form of sustainable tourism that focuses on nature conservation and improvement of local populations in rural and wild areas. Currently there are three cabins within the reserve, and five more palapa style cabins for the future in the beach area that are in harmony with the environment and generate a low environmental impact, these lodge is designed for people interested in spending time in the reserve in a place away from "civilization" and to seize all activities performed therein, such as:

The reserve wi l l have a social area where wi l l be

held the restaurant,communications center

and local crafts shop

MARKETING STRATEGIES STAFF

Project ManagementConstruction processes and OperationalSpecialized personnelScientific AssistantSupervisors

So far everything has been funded with own resources, the idea is to get to the point where the reservation is self-sufficient..

Designing the project's website (coming soon)Subscribe to related entities to be known:

National Network of Botanical Gardens of Colombia (Already members!)

Colombian network of natural reserves of civil societyRainforest Alliance

The International Union for Conservation of NatureThe International Ecotourism Society

Find incentives and donations acordiing to areas of interest:[Garden, reservation, turtle ...]

Make an article and submit it to the media.

AREAS DEFINITION ANDINFRASTRUCTURE TO BUILD

Areas:Mangrove swampReserveReforestationself suficient greenhouseMedicinal gardenCropsFarmEx-situ collectionsEcolodgeEnergy Infrastructure:Electricity networksOther energy alternativesTerrestrial Infrastructure:BridgesTracksTrailsSighting ViewpointsMaritime Infrastructure:LandingPortsHealth Infrastructure:Drinking water networksDrainsRecycling areasWaste Management

Telecommunications infrastructure:TelephoneSatellite InternetTVInfrastructure Applications:Private Area:Main houseManglar HouseRanger’s HouseForest’s House: Resaquita HouseFarmer’s HouseCommon Areas:Social area [Restaurant, office,communications,shop]Ecolodge cabinsAccommodation for students and researchersLaboratoriesGreenhousesWarehouse [fertilizers, pesticides and tools]

WHAT WE HAVE:Palms and trees Nursery Integrated vegetable greeenhouseFarm with chickens and pigsMain house: Casa ChanóRanger’s House: Rio HouseForest’s House: Resaquita HouseManglar house

SIGNALING

SIGNALING

MANGLARBird watchingarea, silence:

For more information, pictures and videoscontact us at:

info@jardinbotanicodelpacif ico.orgwww.facebook.com/Jardinbotanicodelpacif icowww.youtube.com/user/JardinBotaniPacif ico