Strengthening the Rio Zuñac Reserve in the Corredor Ecológico Llanganates-Sangay

Ecuador is a hotspot for plants, and the Pastaza valley is the heartland of this diversity. Current records show more than 4,000 plant species endemic to this small country, with 197 of these endemic to the Pastaza valley more than found on Ecuadors other biological treasure house, the Galapagos Islands. Besides plants, the valley is home to some 240 species of birds and more than 50 species of bat, one of the largest ranges anywhere on Earth. Colonization in these lower foothills in the Valley has been intense and is accelerating with the continuing improvement of roads crossing the eastern Andes. Recent improvements to the Baños -Puyo highway, have dramatically increased the human pressures on this forest. In addition, the Rio Topo and Rio Zuñac watersheds have been targeted for three hydroelectric projects, and associated road and dam construction will draw many more settlers to the area. To tackle these threats, Ecominga has recently established the 600 hectare Rio Zuñac reserve, located at the mouth of the Pastaza valley. This Reserve is one of the most important centers of plant endemism, hosting newly-discovered frogs, rare birds, and endangered mammals. As currently configured, the reserve is difficult to manage because of inholdings separating the various parts of the reserve. In addition the reserve is subject to invasion by squatter groups because most of the reserve does not have full legal title. The proposed intervention by ECOMINGA therefor has three objectives: Purchase approximately 150 ha of forest and pasture inholdings separating two main parts of our reserve, strengthen our reserves claim to prior purchases of possessions (450 hectares), by converting these to full legal title, and further strengthening of their presence in the area by building a simple ranger cabin/research station in the reserve.