Encouraged by the government, farmers planted monocultures such as corn and citrus with disastrous results in the thin, peninsular soils. Also with government incentives, others began migrating to the coast in search of work. Octopi thrive on the broad continental shelf. But biologists fear the fishery is overtaxed and could decline. There aren't many employment opportunities in the area.
Some former farmers seine shrimp out of the estuary.
Others harvest salt from evaporation flats. Firewood sellers hack at the mangroves, which serve as nurseries for fish and shrimp and are supposed to be protected. Pronatura is offering sustainable alternatives, including ecotourism, which has good potential in an area with golden beaches, sea turtles and, best of all, the northern hemisphere's only mainland flock of flamingos. With support from the regional government, Pronatura is helping local fishermen learn how to raise blue crabs, which can be sold to restaurants serving tourists. With Pronatura's guidance, women are making souven-irs out of seashells, another renewable resource.