"Historias del Mamoni" is a Spanish-language book that takes readers on a journey through the upper Mamoni River valley in E. Panama. Through stunning images & vivid storytelling, it showcases the region's vibrant communities, breathtaking landscapes & extraordinary biodiversity @ the narrowest point of the Americas, seeking to strengthen the shared identity/awareness of the valley's critical ecological role amongst those who call the Mamoni watershed home. Donors get digital book access.
The upper Mamoni River valley, located at the narrowest point of Panama, is a vital ecological corridor connecting N. & S. America. Until the 1960s, the valley was entirely rainforest, but Panama's housing occupation law led to slash-and-burn agriculture & cattle ranching, reaching peak deforestation at 30% in the year 2000. Deforestation is advancing rapidly in East Panama and Darien, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts and increased community awareness.
Our book Historia de Alto Rio Mamoni (Ausinheiler, 2024) recounts the stories of the first inhabitants of the upper Mamoni River valley, offers stunning images of its biodiversity, explains the crucial ecological role it plays at a global level, and describes a recent community-based sustainable development project. It seeks to strengthen the shared identity and awareness of the valley's critical ecological role amongst those who call the Mamoni watershed home.
Few of our neighbors own books due to the humid climate, limited housing infrastructure, and high costs. The books they do have are treasured. This project places in their hands a beautifully crafted book that weaves together their oral history, scientific insights on the valley's ecology, and stunning images of local wildlife. By fostering a deeper connection to their environment, we hope to inspire greater appreciation and stewardship of our territory's ecological importance.
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