Propuesta de un plan de manejo integral ecosistemico de la palma de cera (ceroxylon echinulatum), en el sector los Santiagos, cantón Pallatanga, provincia de Chimborazo.

Abstract

The objective was to propose a comprehensive ecosystem management plan for the species Wax palm (Ceroxylon echinulatum), in Los Santiagos sector, Pallatanga canton, province of Chimborazo, Ecuador. A bibliographic investigation was carried out regarding the uses and ecological status, as well as the formulation of the comprehensive management plan. Information was collected directly in the study area through surveys, to a total of 133 residents, which was composed of 10 multiple choice questions. In the case of the plan proposal, it was formulated based on the criteria established by the Ministry of the Environment, Water and Ecological Transition, MAATE-2022. The results indicated that there is a great lack of knowledge on the part of the community about the usefulness of this forest product, since they do not use it in their daily life, but they are aware of the environmental relevance. The analysis of uses reflected that it can be used for artisanal, religious, traditional and commercial purposes, but in Los Santiagos the majority of the population does not use the palm. Regarding the ecological status, this species is in an endangered conservation category, being threatened by the expansion of the agricultural frontier and the destructive harvest of its leaves. The management plan was developed with three specific objectives and five proposed goals that seek to increase environmental education and the cultural identity of the population so that they use the species as a way to obtain economic returns based on principles of conservation and sustainable management. The study concludes indicating that a Ceroxylon echinulatum management plan has been proposed in which the use of this plant species is promoted with strategic planning. The dissemination and socialization of the proposed plan is recommended so that the objectives and goals set can be successfully achieved.