Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of El Tránsito in San Miguel, the El Jocotal natural area stands out as the only protected natural area classified as a savannah among the 117 designated areas. Covering approximately 500 acres of land, this unique protected area boasts an abundance of herbaceous plants, according to relief classification.
A savannah, characterized by flat terrain with sparse tree vegetation and flourishing herbaceous plants, describes the distinctive features of El Jocotal. The region, encompassing the El Jocotal lagoon, not only aligns with these criteria but also stands as a natural beauty of El Salvador’s eastern region.
The El Jocotal lagoon, a sanctuary located in the municipality of El Tránsito, is a haven for biodiversity. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) highlights its significance as a habitat for over 300 bird species, including migratory birds that traverse the continent and pass through El Salvador annually.
Fernando López, Head of MARN, emphasizes the importance of El Jocotal due to its rich flora and fauna. He urges environmental responsibility, stating, «Let’s avoid contaminating with single-use plastics and dispose of our waste properly. The sites with the greatest diversity of migratory birds include the Ramsar sites of Bahía de Jiquilisco, Laguna El Jocotal, and Bahía de La Unión.»
Designated as a protected natural area in 1976, El Jocotal attained the title of Bird Sanctuary in 1983 and became a Ramsar site in 1996. Legal measures were established to ensure its protection and preservation in the country.
The MARN’s technical team conducts awareness campaigns for the local population, aiming to discourage practices such as burning vegetation and pollution in the natural area. Reforestation initiatives with native trees are also undertaken to guarantee the continuity of ecosystems.
The declaration of El Jocotal as a protected natural area imposes an obligation on the state to ensure the safeguarding of all included natural resources. It also sanctions any form of environmental harm committed by individuals or companies. As El Salvador strives to preserve its unique ecosystems, El Jocotal stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to environmental conservation.