Ecuador declares its first OMEC: a historic achievement for conservation
In 2024, Ecuador’s Ministry of Environment and Ecological Transition officially recognized the Río Anzu Reserve, managed by the EcoMinga Foundation, as its first OECM (Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measure, OMEC in spanish). This designation acknowledges the reserve as a key site for preserving ecosystems, protecting endangered species, and strengthening ecological connectivity within the Llanganates-Sangay Ecological Corridor.

This milestone reflects the Nation’s commitment to safeguarding its unique biodiversity and represents a significant step toward achieving global 2030 conservation goals. This great effort had the collaboration of our conservation partner and donor WWF.

Significance of the Río Anzu Reserve
The area holds significant cultural and ecological value, with fossils and petroglyphs highlighting its historical and archaeological importance. Ecologically, it serves as a unique transition zone between the eastern Andean piedmont forest and tropical humid forest, providing diverse habitats that support a rich array of biodiversity. This includes high concentrations of endemic and endangered species, making the region a critical priority for conservation efforts.
Biodiversity conservation: This reserve harbors an exceptional variety of life, including species that are both endemic and critically endangered. Its role in preserving global biodiversity is indispensable.
Scientific contributions: The reserve is a focal point for ecological and biodiversity research, providing valuable insights through long-term studies on orchids, amphibians, birds, and other species.
Water resource management: Serving approximately 10,000 people, the reserve ensures the provision of clean water to nearby towns, supporting domestic use and agriculture.
Ecological connectivity: Strategically located, the reserve connects protected areas such as llanganates national park and nearby urban and rural zones, facilitating species movement and enhancing ecosystem health.
Historical context
The foundation of the reserve began 20 years ago with the donation of two properties near the Río Anzu caves, a well-known tourist destination. Early research, led by orchid expert Lou Jost, focused on the region's remarkable orchid diversity and associated ecosystems. Building on this foundation, Javier Robayo and Juan Pablo Reyes-Puig expanded the scope of research to include ornithology and herpetology, contributing over 15 years of impactful studies that have deepened the understanding of the area's biodiversity.
Growth and expansion
Over the past decade, the reserve has expanded from 100 hectares to 586 hectares, divided into four key conservation zones. This growth strengthens connectivity with pristine forests near Llanganates National Park, enhancing ecological networks. Additionally, the proposed Llanganates-Sangay Connectivity Corridor, introduced in 2018, aims to link areas from Baños Canton to Mera Canton, ensuring habitat continuity and safeguarding critical ecological processes.
Location
Province: Pastaza
Canton: Mera
Parish: Mera
Adjacent protected area: Llanganates National Park

Remarcable charateristics:
The Río Anzu cave system features a network of approximately 30 caves, showcasing unique geological formations such as stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes and sizes. Some caves have been named for their remarkable features, including "Union of Continents," "World Cup," and "The Two Towers." While several caves have been explored, others remain uncharted, including a vast chamber resembling a coliseum. Access to these stunning underground formations is through narrow openings, adding to their sense of mystery and wonder.
Hydrological value
The reserve serves as a vital water source for three towns and a city, supporting approximately 10,000 residents. Its critical role in maintaining water quality and availability is essential for meeting both household and agricultural needs in the region.
Collaborative management with EcoMinga Foundation
The EcoMinga Foundation oversees the reserve’s management, focusing on reducing environmental pressures caused by human activities, including tourism.
Conservation efforts
Promoting sustainable tourism and improving resource management practices are key strategies aimed at safeguarding biodiversity while ensuring a stable water supply for neighboring communities.
Key achievements
SNAP compatibility: Verified that the reserve does not overlap with Ecuador's National System of Protected Areas (Sistema Nacional deÁreas Protegidas).
Land ownership documentation: Completed surveys, verified land tenure, and consolidated property ownership records.
Governance framework: Developed legal documents to ensure sound reserve management.
Management tools: Applied the METT4 evaluation system and created a comprehensive management plan.
Baseline studies: Conducted detailed assessments, including physical, biological, and cultural information, conservation values, pressures on the area, and comprehensive mapping.