Desarrollo de un modelo de zonificación para la conservación y manejo sostenible del recurso hídrico en el Área Ecológica de Conservación Municipal Los Guayacanes, cantón Zapotillo

Abstract

Abstract: The present study addresses the problem of unsustainable management of water resources in the Los Guayacanes Municipal Conservation Ecological Area, Zapotillo canton, where agricultural expansion, deforestation and unplanned urbanization have affected the quality and availability of water. Given this situation, the main objective is to develop a zoning model that guarantees the sustainable management of water resources and the conservation of strategic ecosystems. To do this, priority conservation areas were identified using remote sensing and GIS tools, considering ecological and socioeconomic criteria. The results obtained allowed the area to be classified into high priority, medium priority and also low priority zones for the conservation of water and biodiversity, recommending measures such as ecological restoration with native species, the delimitation of ecological corridors and the strengthening of environmental monitoring. In conclusion, the implementation of the proposed zoning model is essential to guarantee the sustainability of water resources and the resilience of ecosystems, requiring the commitment of local authorities and the active participation of communities for its long-term success.