The Mexico City government has officially declared two more ahuehuete trees as Natural Heritage of Mexico City. These protected specimens include the “Tacuba” ahuehuete, situated on Marina Nacional avenue in the Miguel Hidalgo borough, and another notable tree located in Parque España, within the Cuauhtémoc borough.
Official Declaration and Preservation Measures
The decrees, published in the Official Gazette, stipulate that the care and preservation of these iconic trees will adhere strictly to a comprehensive Management Plan. This plan will be overseen by the Secretariat of Environment (Sedema), ensuring their long-term protection.
Strict Prohibitions for Protection
The declaration imposes stringent prohibitions to safeguard the ahuehuetes. These include:
- Any form of handling, such as felling, pruning, or transplanting, that contradicts the Decree, the Management Plan, or other applicable legal and regulatory provisions.
- The execution of works, excavations, or installations that could adversely affect their trunk, roots, canopy, or branches.
- A strict observance of a minimum protection radius around the trees, in accordance with established norms.
These measures are designed to prevent damage and ensure the continued health and longevity of these significant natural landmarks.
Growing List of Protected Ahuehuetes
This latest declaration follows similar protective measures enacted last week by the Mexico City government. Previously, several other ahuehuete trees were designated as Natural Heritage, including the “Juarista” ahuehuete on Paseo de la Reforma, a specimen in Jardín Ramón López Velarde, others in Jardín de San Fernando in the Guerrero neighborhood, and one located in the Glorieta de Ahuehuetes in Azcapotzalco.
The continuous efforts to recognize and protect these ancient trees highlight the city’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and urban biodiversity. The ahuehuete, also known as Montezuma cypress, is Mexico’s national tree and holds significant cultural and ecological value.
Community Engagement and Future Outlook
The initiative also encourages community engagement in the preservation efforts, reminding residents and visitors of their role in respecting these protected natural monuments. By safeguarding these ahuehuetes, Mexico City aims to maintain its green spaces and historical elements for future generations.
The Secretariat of Environment will continue to monitor the health and integrity of these trees, implementing the necessary actions outlined in their respective Management Plans. This ongoing commitment underscores the importance of environmental conservation within the urban landscape of Mexico City.
Source: https://www.eluniversal.com.mx/metropoli/declaran-patrimonio-natural-de-cdmx-a-dos-ahuehuetes-ubicados-en-tacuba-y-parque-espana-ya-suman-varios-ejemplares/
