DI "NO" A LAS PRESAS

There has been a proposal for four electric dams to be constructed in the area of Jalomculco and the neighbouring watershed. After my brief experiences on these rivers, and with the people of Jalcomulco I was sad to hear this news - but moved my the local effort to stop it.

On one of my last days in town the raft companies of Jalomculco and raft companies from the surrounding municipalities created a dam of their own... a dam of rafts. One after the other, trucks and vans trailed their rafts to the rivers edge. Locals came by foot, by bus, by car. A school band performed, officials from the village and spokespeople of the effort had an opportunity to take the microphone and speak their mind in protest and celebration of the rivers. Mike, a Canadian kayak videographer/filmmaker that had also being staying with Esprit for the last few nights was there to document the rivers and not only showcase how great a place it is to raft and kayak, but promote the rivers conservation... plus, add to the wicked and gnarly whitewater videos you can YouTube from Five2Nine! Mike interviewed Jim Coffey throughout the village and Esprit's efforts in protesting the dams and also got an opportunity to run a few rivers.

When the raft-dam was in place I moved to get a view from the nearby suspension walking bridge. A banner was passed over the rafts and the crowed chanted "DI "NO" A LAS PRESAS" - "DI "NO" A LAS PRESAS" - "DI "NO" A LAS PRESAS"! Some of the most amazing things you see traveling have nothing to do with the scenery.