I had the distinct pleasure to visit Uma la Vereda Xcalacoco last week with a coworker of mine, Ana, to interview the director, Jorge Fuentes. I have always wanted to meet Jorge and visit his sanctuary. I am dedicating this editorial to him as we have so much to learn from people like Jorge. They are the heart and soul of this region, and I believe their work is important and invaluable.
After getting a little lost, we finally found this small sanctuary for native animals, plants and trees. The first thing you notice is how much cooler the air feels when you are surrounded by trees. Much of the area that surrounds the sanctuary has been cleared for huge resorts. Remove the trees and you remove the natural cooling system that these trees provide.
Jorge met us in the parking area and he hurried us in as one of the area´s two troops (families) of spider monkeys had come into the sanctuary. The monkeys are not in cages, and they are not confined in the sanctuary. They come, and they go as they please. Jorge does provide them with fruit but out of necessity, not as a means of controlling them. You see, the habitat of the spider monkeys in the region has been significantly reduced due to development. In addition to a food source, trees are the spider monkeys road system. Without trees, the monkeys can not move freely in their territories (they very rarely descend to the ground).
Jorge came to Playa in 1973. Not surprisingly, he has seen unimaginable changes in this region in those 43 years. His passion for the land and the sea and the animals who inhabit this place is deeply rooted in his experiences of living here before, well, before we all showed up. Time spent in the jungle, in the sea, and with locals taught him the way of the natural world here.
As we continue to walk through the sanctuary, he spends time at each important tree and plant, explaining its significance and role in the ecosystem. We discuss the importance of reforestation of native plants and trees and agree that restoration of these species will allow the forest to care for itself, without human interaction.
As the huge resorts encroach on his life’s work, he remains optimistic and hopeful. Jorge continues to reforest his small haven and continues his efforts with educating children – the next generation of caregivers. He doesn´t involve himself in political battles or environmental fights. He leaves that to the environmentalists who he is confident can make a difference. He believes his mission is to look after what is left.
