The coastal dune in Progreso is successfully being recovered, and with its growth, it manages to cover most of the beach.
Since the last administration both Semarnat and Progreso’s Directorate of Ecology have carried out reforestation of the beach, as well as the proper care of the dune, so it grows and provides life to the beach of Progreso, which some years ago had lost much of this dune.
Despite being beneficial to the beach ecosystem, the coastal dune brings with it some misuse. In the first place, some people use the bushes as garbage dumps, contaminating the place, and indigent people use them as shelter, leaving also garbage in those areas. Another mishap is the proliferation of thorn bushes, which hurt those who walk barefoot, especially people who come to bathe in the sea.
In addition, the growth of these shrubs could become excessive and extend to the international boardwalk, so it should be selectively pruned to avoid excessive growth.
This ecosystem must be taken care of by the authorities and the citizens, since it not only gives life to the beach but also acts as a barrier against the strong winds that arrive with the “nortes” weather systems to the port of Progreso.
Text and photo: David Correa
