Illegal logging in the State of Mexico is critically affecting dozens of municipalities. However, despite joint security operations, communities report that the institutional response remains insufficient given the scale of the environmental devastation.
Current Situation
Affected municipalities: At least 25 to 39 municipalities in the State of Mexico are considered hotspots for illegal logging, notably in areas such as Ocuilan, Ocoyoacac, Huixquilucan, and the slopes of the Nevado de Toluca.
Government actions:
PROFEPA and federal forces, such as the National Guard, have stepped up operations to inspect and shut down clandestine sawmills; however, residents point out that these actions are slow or limited in scope.
Citizen complaints:
Faced with a perception of inaction—or alleged collusion between local authorities and illegal logging groups—residents in various regions have had to organize on their own to detain vehicles and protect their forests.
Environmental Impact
Water crisis: Forest destruction reduces the water-capture capacity of the region known as the “Water Forest” (Bosque de Agua), thereby exacerbating water scarcity in the Valley of Mexico.
Ecosystem loss: Thousands of hectares of sacred fir (oyamel), pine, and oak forests—essential for biodiversity and climate regulation—have been lost.
With information from POSTA CDMX
