NatureSweet®, a produce grower, has earned the prestigious certification by the Government of Jalisco to become a State Area Voluntarily Destined for Conservation (SAVDC), which will help protect the biological diversity of more than 123 acres (50 hectares) of land at its plant in Tuxcacuesco, Jalisco. The area is considered a pollinator corridor, a pathway that will help preserve and protect various species as they move between areas. A stream on the property helps aid the local aquifer, prevents drought, and serves as an animal water source.
There are more than 142 species of animals identified on the land, some of which are endangered or threatened, and 63 species of flora, including many plants that are endemic to Mexico. NatureSweet is the first private company in the state of Jalisco to receive the SAVDC certification.
Left: Rodolfo Spielmann receiving the voluntarily protected area certification from an official with the State of Jalisco, Mexico; right: the Mexican tree frog (Smilisca baudinii), a nocturnal species of frog that is normally found within lightly forested areas near permanent sources of water.
“We are committed to transforming the lives of agricultural workers in North America, and among other things, this means improving the communities in which we operate and the environment around us,” says Rodolfo Spielmann, president, and CEO. “We’re extremely proud to be the first company in the state of Jalisco to earn the voluntary reserve certification. This land is home to more than 200 species of plants and animals. We hope our conservation efforts inspire other landowners and businesses to protect and preserve wildlife and help sustain natural ecosystems in this area.”
According to the Government of Jalisco, the certification lasts 15 years. Through scientific research, environmental education, and monitoring, the company will help encourage sustainable development and the biocultural diversity of Mexico. Efforts such as this one will help build species’ long-term survival and allow flora and fauna to thrive.
For more information:
Jenny Halpin
NatureSweet
[email protected]
https://naturesweet.com/