Raising Awareness to Protect the Socomba River

In the municipality of Becerril (Cesar), as part of the Tropical Dry Forest program, a specific initiative has been launched to raise awareness about environmental conservation. As part of efforts aimed at strengthening community-based management and protecting natural resources in the Socomba River Environmental Corridor, a conservation billboard was installed on May 17 in the village of Caño Rodrigo. The event was attended by members of the local committee and community residents, who joined this initiative aimed at promoting the conservation of the river’s buffer zones.

The installed sign features clear and direct messages encouraging the public to adopt environmentally responsible practices. Among the key conservation agreements is a ban on littering in natural areas and water sources.

This initiative serves as an environmental education and awareness strategy designed to strengthen community ownership of the conservation agreements developed through participatory processes. Beyond its informational purpose, the billboard stands as a symbol of the communities’ commitment to protecting their territory and conserving the ecosystem services that benefit both present and future generations.

The billboard was installed in an area known as “El 5”, a natural swimming spot frequented by local residents and visitors who come to enjoy the waters of the Socomba River. Due to the high volume of visitors, this site has faced problems related to the improper disposal of solid waste, a situation that has negative impacts on the landscape, water quality, and the wildlife in the ecosystem. Given this situation, the community identified the need to place the billboard at a strategic location.

Through actions like this, we continue to make progress toward building a region committed to conservation, where community participation becomes a fundamental pillar for ensuring the protection of biodiversity, water sources, and the natural resources that sustain the life and well-being of communities. The sign’s central message sums up the purpose of this initiative:

“The river is life; caring for it is everyone’s responsibility”

A constant call to act responsibly and conscientiously in support of the region’s environmental heritage.