National Forestry Commission ready to launch investigation into fire in Holbox

State official of the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR), Rafael León Negrete, says that personnel from several state agencies are ready to carry out a new survey and investigation of the damage caused by the fire in Holbox Island now that it has been completely extinguished.

According to León Negrete, personnel from CONAFOR, the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP), and the Federal Attorney of Environmental Protection (PROFEPA) will carry out a new survey to determine the precise area that was damaged by the fire.

In a phone interview with León Negrete he explained that the fire has been 100% extinguished and poses no threat of advancing any further and therefore, personnel will now be able to safely visit the site to carry out a final examination and to establish the exact area that was damaged by the fire.

The state official explained that in accordance with the Mexican Sustainable Forestry Development Act, the next step in these types of cases is for state officials to implement a 20-year ban on development in the affected area.

He said that the investigation will allow state officials to determine whether the cause of the fire was intentional. “At the end of the day, regardless if the fire was intentional or accidental, the entire area that was burned down will be protected from any developments for a period of 20 years,” he said.

He went on to say that, although unlikely, the investigation may reveal who the perpetrator of the fire was, in which case, he or she would have to cover all environmental costs, plus expenses incurred by the state to put out the fire.

León Negrete reiterated the importance of the fact that 80% of the affected area was mangroves, a delicate and endangered ecosystem that is home to many species of plants and animals.

RB