The coastal areas north of Huanchaco were full of totorales, the wetlands where the totoras (reeds used to make caballitos) grow. Aggressive urban development has wiped out much of these wetlands, which are also threatened by climate change, pollution, and vandalism. A conservation area was established north of Huanchaco, with a law passed in 1991 to preserve this area. Despite the law, illegal development and other threats continue. Conservationists estimate that these areas could be gone within 20-30 years if not aggressively protected. With the totorales gone, fishermen will no longer be able to make the caballitos, the ancient surf craft that is still used for artisanal fishing and is one of the main draws for tourism in Huanchaco.
"Protect the rafts. Love your homeland, protect your natural resources. They're a source of life and work." Huanchaco's Association of Artisanal Fishermen pleas for residents to preserve the neighboring wetlands on Huanchaco's northernmost building.
An old mural on Huanchaco's northernmost beaches depicting the proud heritage of life with the ocean, the infamous caballitos, and the endangered totorales used to make the caballitos.
