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Mangrove Education for Port Town Youth

Location: Topolobampo, Sinaloa, Mexico

Date: 2021

Goal: To introduce the Marvellous Mangroves environmental education program to youth in Topolobampo, Mexico, raising awareness of local ecosystems and empowering communities to engage in conservation amidst growing industrial development.

Partners

RECAMB Institucion de Asistencia Privada

WWF

Bonatti

TFS
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Marvellous Mangroves education programme was adapted to local context using Spanish resources

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Hands-on activities included using microscopes, birdwatching, and kayaking 

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Over 100 local children and teens engaged in mangrove education sessions 

What we did

The Mangrove Action Project’s science-based education programme Marvellous Mangroves was launched in Mexico for the first time, in partnership with local NGO Restauración y Conservación Ambiental (RECAMB). A workshop was delivered in Topolobampo, a port town located in Lagunas de Santa María-Topolobampo-Ohuira, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Natural site. This area features a unique network of lagoons and mangrove islands, providing habitat for 84% of Mexico’s migratory waterfowl in winter and supporting local livelihoods through fishing.

Over the course of a week, 108 local children and teenagers (aged 6–19) took part in a range of interactive and science-based learning activities designed to deepen their understanding of mangrove ecosystems. They learned how to record scientific data in field logbooks, identify bird species with binoculars, and observe feather structures using microscopes provided by MAP. 

 

Exploring the mangrove canals of Isla Las Ánimas by kayak to observe the natural beauty of the flora and fauna added an immersive dimension to the experience. Outdoor games, fieldwork, and creative exercises connected participants with their environment in a meaningful way, prompting reflection on their own role in shaping the future of their community. 

The workshop not only introduced scientific tools and ecological principles, but also encouraged social and emotional learning, helping young people develop collaboration and communication skills. As Mariana Lazcano-Ferrat, RECAMB’s Executive Director, explained, “Sometimes, being in nature becomes an experience that teaches collateral lessons.”

 

Interested in working with us?

Get in touch with us at cassie@mangroveactionproject.org

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