ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF INTEGRAL PROJECT: "BAJO USUMACINTA" CAMPECHE-TABASCO, MEXICO"

Abstract

In order to preserve and restore the ecological equilibrium and to protect the environment, it is it is necessary to realize that all works do exploit nature and affect the ecology.In Mexican Surwest, plans to incorporate 100 000 ha for production of rice under irrigation development, will necessitate construction of two pumping stations and 1 700 km of roads, with their structures, infrastructure for operation, maintenance, and conservation works. In view of that it will be necessary to conduct an environmental impact study for the project.Study zones of 730 000 ha varied between damp and hot climates. It is a plains region with many zones; copious rivers and streams, and big lagoons of fresh and salt water. Relief is slightly above sea level.The majority of the natural vegetation has disappeared. Vegetation now existing is farmed by some communities named Acahuals and Palmars and is located in boggy zones, Popals, Tulars and Carrizals are found. This situation has caused autochinonous fauna emigration.On the other hand, population demographics have increased in the last decade. Principal activities are extensive; exploitation by cattle, agriculture and dust storms. Factors impacted, and identified with the Superimposed Maps Method were: soil, flora, fauna, rivers, streams and lagoons (selected for agricultural discharge), climate and socio-economic conditions.For each stage of the project, conclusions were obtained from evaluation of environmental impacts by the application of the Matrix Method. The localization and preparation of project locations, monetary significance, construction, significance of modification, operation and maintenance, significant environmental factors, and for the future, significance of permanent and irreversible impacts were considered.It is recommended that efforts be made to protect the soil, flora, fauna, weather and atmosphere, and to use them rationally. Observation of the laws and rules of the Mexican Environmental Legislation is obligatory.Taking into account that environmental conditions are already perturbed, it is considered that project development will be beneficial if measures are taken to preserve the ecology.Ecosystems of bogs adjacent to lagoons and rivers must be preserved for ecological reasons. Irrigation and drainage channels and roads must be constructed with byways to allow fauna displacement. It is necessary to provide technological training to agricultural users; to conserve, to develop and to use autochtonous flora and fauna, and to carry out activities to recover construction wastes. It is necessary too, to introduce important species of commercial and ecological interest.