considers sound ecologicalpractices, suchasagroforestry, integrated
management of
fire, and no new forest clearing. The core area (8% of
total area) is destined for the protection of biodiversity and
educational and research activities (INE, 1999). Approximately
24,500 people live in the reserve’s buffer zone whose livelihoods
depend primarily on small-scale agriculture, such as corn and bean
cultivation, cattle raising, and coffee agroforestry (CONANP, 2013).
Biosphere Reserve guidelines prevent further clear-cutting of
forested areas for the expansion of agriculture and pastureland;
however, the expansion of coffee agroforestry is permitted.
Fieldwork was conducted in two communities, where the
oldest one was founded in the 1960 and the second one a few years
later. Prior to colonization starting in 1960, there is no evidence of
human settlements in this area (Cruz-Morales, 2014). In these
communities (é jidos), farmers are currently in private possession
of their land but the general assembly must approve certain
decisions, such as selling land, agricultural burning or the
management of riparian areas.