Huanchaco's "humedales," the protected wetlands north of the city, face constant threats. Despite being protected by law in 1991, there is still illegal development, pollution, vandalism, and beach erosion threatening the remaining totora ponds. A reminder above the hillside, "don't destroy the totorales," asks people to be mindful of these culturally, historically, environmentally, and economically important areas. In the foreground, cut totoras must dry for 2-3 weeks before being crafted into the caballitos.
Huanchaco's "humedales," the protected wetlands north of the city, face constant threats. Despite being protected by law in 1991, there is still illegal development, pollution, vandalism, and beach erosion threatening the remaining totora ponds. These ponds are very important culturally, historically, environmentally, and economically. Next to the ponds, cut totoras must dry for 2-3 weeks before being used for constructing the caballitos.
