For our first excursion, the EDU and MGE groups went on an eco hike to see some of the beauty that the mountains of Amatlan have to offer. Before our hike, we sat around in a circle and listened to our tour guide talk about the environment in Amatlan, and some issues related to it. We learned that Amatlan is part of a biological corridor named Ajusco Chichinautzin. The vegetation up in the mountains acts as a sponge and absorbs water that goes into an underground aquifer. Some of the water from there travels as far as Mexico City. This means that protecting this area is very important, but unfortunately it is threatened by excessive tourism and forest fires. It was a very interesting lecture, and I think we all learned a lot from it.
The sign reads “Hiker, this place is sacred. Take care of it. Do not throw garbage. Do not make fire or anything that can cause fire. Avoid a fine. Protect the natural Chichinautzin.”
As I hiked up the mountain, I really started to appreciate the work of the Amatlan fire brigade. This fire brigade had been set up to combat the forest fire problem and prevent the loss of vegetation. This is much easier said than done because members of the brigade have to carry heavy equipment up into the mountains. I was getting worn out only carrying a water bottle. I also admired how they had hung repurposed dog food bags up all over the forest to act as garbage bags. It was nice knowing that the people of Amatlan cared so much about keeping their forests clean (and that the dogs of Amatlan were well fed). There was, however, still some trash on the ground left by people who couldn’t be bothered to take a few extra steps towards a garbage bag.
Our hike through the mountain
As we walked, our tour guide told us various stories and facts about the plants growing there. However, I was kind of distracted. Looking up, I saw all the mountains that surrounded us. It was breathtaking. It was like something you would use as a computer wallpaper. At the end of the hike, we sat around eating fruit that our host families had sent with us while our tour guide answered questions. We then walked back down. This trip got me excited for the week to come, and it was a great way to start our stay in Amatlan.