Tomás Ramírez Chávez, a 65-year-old landowner, owns a sprawling 1,236-acre property known as “El Topozán,” located in the community of San Antonio Tancoyol, within the municipality of Jalpan de Serra.
This land, rich in biodiversity, is primarily covered by an oak forest, and it serves as a critical habitat for a wide array of wildlife. Among the many species that thrive here are jaguars, margays, ocelots, tayras, jaguarundis, porcupines, ajols, wild turkeys, great curassows, frogs, and the venomous fer-de-lance. The diverse ecosystem on Tomás' property plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of nature, supporting both local wildlife and the broader environment.
As a result of his dedication to preserving this unique habitat, Tomás has been receiving payments from the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR) for the valuable ecosystem services his property provides. These payments are part of a program designed to incentivize landowners like Tomás to protect and sustainably manage their natural resources, ensuring the long-term conservation of vital ecosystems like the one on his land.
Tomás fondly recalls the days when he lived on his ranch, observing the abundance of wildlife that roamed freely across the land. "There are many animals here—pumas, ajols, deer... I saw them all when I lived on my ranch," he says. His deep respect and connection to the land are evident in his actions, as he has used the funds from the conservation program to make vital improvements to his property. With the payments he has received, Tomás reinforced two kilometers of fencing around his land, preventing neighboring livestock from encroaching and damaging the sensitive ecosystem. Additionally, he constructed a water collection tank, further supporting the sustainability of the land and its inhabitants.
Tomás' commitment to nature goes beyond just the practical measures he has taken to protect his land. His passion for conservation is deeply rooted in his values. "I am a big fan of nature, to the point where I get upset when I see someone in the community carrying a slingshot," he explains, his voice filled with emotion. Despite having lived among a wealth of wildlife, Tomás has always refrained from harming any animals.
"When I lived on the ranch, even though I saw all those wild animals, I never shot one. I am completely against cutting down trees, burning trash”… if I could, I would have stayed on the ranch, I would have stayed to die on my land," he says, a clear testament to his unwavering commitment to preserving the environment for future generations.
Tomás’ story is one of profound respect for nature, illustrating how the conservation of biodiversity can be supported through sustainable land management practices and incentivized programs. Through his dedication to protecting “El Topozán,” Tomás not only helps safeguard an incredible range of species but also contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem that benefits the entire region. His efforts demonstrate the significant impact that individuals can have in protecting our planet when given the right support and resources.
