Land Preservation

Although it is impossible to visually see, and perhaps understand, all of the natural complexities that exist within the Madrean Archipelago region, the Cuenca Los Ojos Foundation appreciates all that land preservation can do to protect the character of its expanse. Stretching 200 miles long and 70 miles wide, the Madrean Archipelago is one of the most ecologically diverse and rich landscapes in western North America. And within its expanse is an astonishing collaboration of those who have a deep understanding and passion to preserve its ecological and biological values.

Within this vast territory one can experience many distinct ecological zones and environments; pine forests give way to oak savannahs, mesquite-studded grasslands yield to mixed desert. Hundreds of Wildlife species are indigenous to this area, and many more use it as a migratory corridor.

For decades, biologists have been aware of the devastating affects of poor land management on the rich biological resources found within this landscape. Deep within the Cuenca los Ojos (CLO's) mission is an aspiration to preserve various segments of this region to help the migration of birds and animals moving north and south.

Through astonishing collaborations, more than a million acres have been protected in the border region through the efforts of CLO, the Malpai Borderlands Group, and the Animas Foundation. Supporting these efforts are the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the US Forest Service who manage sizable areas which are now rich in habitat and natural resources.

To the south and east, the Nature Conservancy and Pronatura Noreste have protected the important Chihuahuan Desert habitat. To the south, Naturalia and the Northern Jaguar Project have preserved vast areas that are a vital breeding ground for the jaguar.

These efforts to foster biological diversity and protect the character of the Madrean Archipelago region are just the beginning of CLO's land preservation efforts. Through partnerships and perseverance, CLO continues to re-establish global ecosystems in their natural range and to maintain viable populations of all native species within those environments.