This community forest is located in the Municipality of Mayagüez in western Puerto Rico. Back in 2015, the land was acquired through the Forest Service Community Forestry and Open Space Conservation Program. The Cooperative Agreement signed between the Forest Service and the Municipality of Mayaguez stated that the land would be preserved in perpetuity for the enjoyment and use of the community. Although the land is owned by the Mayagüez municipality, the land is co-managed by the local non-profit Proyecto Comunitario Agro Eco Turístico del Barrio de Río Hondo Inc. comprised of community members and stakeholders committed to the preservation of the land. This forest is comprised of two parcels that cover almost 70 acres of land that offer areas for hiking, bird watching, and an outdoor laboratory for students, among other uses. The co-managers also offer a diversity of workshops, guided tours as well as the sale of goods such as sofrito. Although the forest was damaged by Hurricanes María and Fiona, the community has not slowed down and continues to move forward with various projects.

The Feria Agroforestal 2024 kicked of Earth Day activities in April, and it was amazing! I got the opportunity to arrive there early and helped set up the areas for the different activities. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and community members. I could tell that everyone was committed to making sure this activity was a success. There were spaces reserved for local artisans and merchants, informative tables from different agencies and organizations, music from various children’s choirs, guided tours through the forest, workshops, and lots more! More than 300 people participated including students from local schools that were visiting this forest for the first time. This was amazing to hear as they were discovering a place that was a few minutes away from them, but they hadn’t been able to explore. One of the activities I enjoyed the most was assisting in the workshop using leaves and flowers from native flora to dye fabrics. The workshop was led by local artisan, and she gave the workshop to more than 30 people. It was fascinating to see how ordinary flora can create such beautiful colors and patterns in fabric. Overall, the activity achieved its main goal: increase community engagement and involvement with the forest.

As a Grants and Agreements RAP Intern, this was a great opportunity to see firsthand why agreements are so important. They provide a base for these programs that help preserve the land while also giving back to the communities. I am honored to be part of the team that works behind the scenes to make sure these kinds of projects can thrive. My hope is that the Bosque Comunitario Río Hondo continues its legacy and that future generations can enjoy the many services the forest provides. I am grateful to all the collaborators and colleagues that made this fair so successful and for the opportunity to be a part of it! Can’t wait for next year’s fair!