Zonificación de las Áreas de Conservación y Uso Sostenible (ACMUS) en el cantón Loja, como herramienta para la gestión integrada de los recursos hídricos

Abstract

Abstract: In this study, a zoning exercise was carried out to support the territorial planning of the Conservation and Sustainable Use Areas (ACMUS) in the Loja canton. Currently, these 55 areas lack zoning in accordance with Ordinance No. 026-2020. The research aims to contribute to the zoning and analysis of the ACMUS in Loja canton and propose management strategies for priority areas. To this end, environmental units were generated, and an impact/suitability matrix was developed to assess the carrying capacity of the territory. Additionally, priority hydrological areas were identified to establish management strategies. The results indicate the need to implement restoration processes, as ecosystems are being altered due to anthropogenic activities and excessive land use. More than 40% of ACMUS have high hydrological priority, with an NDVI of 0.76. The areas bordering Podocarpus National Park show the highest conservation indices. This highlights the importance of implementing management strategies for protected areas and strengthening territorial planning to optimize the management and preservation of ACMUS.