## Estero de San José in Critical State
The Estero de San José del Cabo, a Protected Natural Area and Ecological Reserve in Baja California Sur, is facing a critical situation due to several concerning factors. A lack of adequate intervention by governmental authorities, treated water spills, invasive plant growth, and fires caused by droughts are just some of the pressing issues threatening this freshwater lagoon, which is a hallmark of the region’s main tourist destination.
Researchers, activists, and specialists agree that these problems urgently need to be addressed to save the estuary. Classified as a protected wetland by the RAMSAR Convention, the Estero de San José is a cradle of biodiversity, housing numerous unique plant species that provide vital corridors and refuges for wildlife.
Graciela Tiburcio, a wildlife management specialist, emphasized the ecological significance of the estuary, noting that it serves as a critical resting and feeding ground for many migratory birds. Despite the existence of a Management Plan, she pointed out the lack of real and effective actions to rescue the estuary.
The invasive plant species, particularly water hyacinth, is actively spreading due to the estuary’s diminishing depth, exacerbated by human activities that accelerate sediment buildup. This situation has led to more frequent flooding in San José del Cabo, as the water’s natural flow is disrupted.
Another major concern is the spill of treated water from a treatment plant managed by the National Fund for Tourism Development (Fonatur). This issue has been recognized by local authorities and has led to legal actions and plans to improve water treatment facilities.
To address the invasive plant problem, an investment has been made in acquiring specialized machinery to remove the water hyacinth efficiently. However, ongoing issues such as illegal fishing, unauthorized dumping, and clandestine logging in the reserve demand additional vigilance.
The community must be involved in preserving the estuary, ensuring that all efforts, no matter how arduous, contribute to its ecological rescue.
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### Secondary Article: Government Takes Action to Protect Estero de San José
In light of the ongoing environmental crisis at the Estero de San José, authorities in Los Cabos are stepping up efforts to mitigate the damage and restore the estuary. Recent reports indicate that the government has taken significant steps, including the acquisition of a water treatment plant from the National Fund for Ejidal Development (Fifonafe) for a symbolic payment to manage the estuary’s water quality better.
The Governor of Baja California Sur, Víctor Castro Cosío, announced the acquisition and stated that the treatment plant would be handed over to the local water management agency, OOMSAPAS, to improve the municipality’s water crisis and address the estuary’s issues.
Additionally, there are plans to deploy new machinery, such as the “WIDOO” and other essential equipment, to remove the invasive water hyacinth. This initiative aims to enhance the estuary’s depth and prevent further sediment accumulation that fuels the growth of invasive species.
As the previous municipal administration ends, the incoming officials are urged to continue these efforts and collaborate with environmental agencies, civil associations, and the community to secure the estero’s future. Enhanced surveillance and stricter regulations are also being implemented to protect the estuary from illegal activities further stressing the ecosystem.
Stay updated for more information as efforts to save the Estero de San José progress.