25. Mangrove Concessions: An Innovative Strategy for Community Mangrove Conservation in Ecuador

The sustainable use and custody agreements of mangrove forests (Mangrove forest concessions) emerged in 1999 as a complementary strategy to the national protected area policy strategy. This innovative strategy supports the conservation of mangrove forests by providing legal security to traditional mangrove users, conceding them land rights concessions and thereby promote the participation of local communities in the conservation of mangroves, allowing the sustainable capture of biodiversity mainly of sea shells and crabs. This chapter includes a case study of the association of artisanal fishermen and related activities named “Costa Rica”, located in the province of El Oro. This association obtained in 2000 a mangrove forest concession, being one of the first in the country. After 17 years of signing the agreement with the National Government, in spite of anthropogenic pressure, mainly from the shrimp industry, the area maintained its mangrove forest cover and the association has been able to sustainable use the mangrove resources, especially the black ark or blood cockle (Anadara tuberculosa).