Laguna Cartagena NWR | Southeast Region

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Susan Silander
Project Leader

P.O. Box 510 Boqueron, PR 00622 (787) 851-7258
FAX: (787) 851-7440
E-mail: caribbeanisland@fws.gov

Directions to Refuge

Fact Sheet

Refuge Facts

Established: 1989.
Acres: 1,059.
Location: easiest access is at the pedestrian gates in Maguayo, PR on Route 305, or near Hacienda Desengano on Route 306 south of Route 101.
Administered under Caribbean Island NWR office.

Natural History

The present lagoon is a remnant of what was once a large open expanse of water and one of the most important freshwater habitats for migrating waterfowl and aquatic birds in Puerto Rico. Due to past agricultural practices, about 90 percent of the lagoon is choked with a variety of aquatic plants which restrict nesting and feeding.
In addition to the lagoon, there are uplands that include pastureland, abandoned sugar cane fields, and 263 acres in the foothills of the Sierra Bermeja. These hills, geologically some of the oldest in the Caribbean, protect a native forest with many endemic plant species.

Financial Impact of Refuge

No staff.
300 visitors annually.

Refuge Objectives

To restore and maintain this locally important wetland ecosystem for the benefit of endangered species and migratory birds.

Management Tools

Water management.
Forestry.
Law enforcement.
Plant control.
Education/interpretation.
Hiking.
Wildlife observation and nature photography.

Questions and Answers

What has been done to alleviate the flooding situation in the town of Maguayo, which is directly east of the refuge lagoon?

Due to past agricultural practices, most of the lagoon is now choked with vegetation which impedes the normal flow of water. As a consequence, Maguayo occasionally floods during periods of heavy rain. In 1995, the Service initiated a challenge-cost-share restoration project. To date, accomplishments include construction of a water control structure, removal of some vegetation using a dragline, and partial completion of a water diversion canal in the lagoon.

Is the refuge open to the public?

Yes, the refuge is open during daylight hours, seven days a week.

What bird species might I see at the refuge?

Historically, almost half of the birds in Puerto Rico have been seen in the area. Visitors may see the smooth-billed ani, magnificent frigatebird, several species of herons, the endangered yellow-shouldered blackbird, and others.

Why is cattle grazing allowed on the refuge?

Grazing is being used as an intermediate management tool to reduce grass fuel loads in this fire prone area.

Is waterfowl hunting allowed on the refuge?

Prior to becoming a refuge, the area was open to waterfowl hunting. At present, the refuge does not have sufficient numbers of birds to justify a hunt.

Return to: Caribbean Islands, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Offices

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