The Macal River's Dam Development

The Macal River in Belize has three hydroelectric dams along its length before it merges with the Mopan River to form the Belize River. The Chalillo Dam, completed in 2005, has been particularly controversial due to its impact on the surrounding rainforest and the ecosystems of the Macal River and Chiquibul Forest. Two smaller dams, the Mollejon and Vaca, are also downstream from the Chalillo Dam.

The Chalillo Dam is controversial due to its environmental impact

The Macal River in Belize is home to three hydroelectric dams, one of which is the Chalillo Dam, completed in 2005. The construction of the Chalillo Dam has been mired in controversy due to its environmental impact.

The Chalillo Dam is a gravity dam situated in the Maya Mountains, where the Macal River converges with the Raspaculo River. The dam's primary purpose is to impound water during the rainy season and release it during dry periods. While the dam's main function is to generate hydroelectric power, its construction has had significant ecological repercussions.

The dam's construction has led to the displacement of numerous species, including the Tapir, the Scarlet Macaw, and the Jaguar, all of which are endangered. The flooded area caused by the dam's reservoir encompasses a rare floral floodplain habitat that serves as a critical habitat for resident and migratory fauna and avifauna. This includes the displacement of over 50 mammal species, 185 bird species, and large numbers of amphibians and reptiles. The dam has also eliminated a forest home for Tapirs, the main nesting sites for Scarlet Macaws, and critical areas for Jaguars.

In addition to the loss of wildlife and their natural habitats, there are concerns about the safety of the dam due to its proximity to a fault line. The dam is located just 550 meters from a fault line, and its failure could pose a significant risk to the downstream town of San Ignacio.

The construction of the Chalillo Dam has also faced opposition due to economic concerns. Critics argue that the dam will only generate a small amount of electricity, approximately 5 to 6 megawatts, which will not significantly reduce Belize's reliance on imported electricity or lower electricity costs for consumers. Instead, it is predicted that the dam will lead to an increase in electricity rates for Belizeans.

The controversy surrounding the Chalillo Dam has led to multiple lawsuits and sparked debates about the balance between economic development and environmental conservation. Despite the opposition, the dam was completed, and its impact on the environment and local communities continues to be monitored.

The Chalillo Dam is owned by the government of Belize

The Macal River, which runs through the Cayo District in western Belize, is home to three hydroelectric dams before it merges with the Mopan River to form the Belize River. One of these dams is the Chalillo Dam, a gravity dam situated about 33 kilometres (21 miles) south of San Ignacio.

The Chalillo Dam was constructed by Sinohydro of Beijing, China, between 2002 and 2005, with the primary purpose of hydroelectric power production. At the time of its construction, the dam was owned by the Canadian corporation Fortis Inc., which also owned the national electrical utility company, Belize Electricity Limited (BEL). However, the Chalillo Dam is now owned by the government of Belize, which also owns and operates BEL.

The Chalillo Dam has a maximum capacity of 7.0MW and cost approximately US$30 million to build. Its construction was highly controversial due to its potential impact on the surrounding rainforest and the ancient Mayan archaeological sites in the area. Environmentalists and conservation groups warned that the dam would destroy endangered species' habitats, including that of the Scarlet Macaw, and compromise the integrity of important archaeological sites.

Despite the lawsuits and opposition, the project went ahead, and the dam began operating in 2005. The Chalillo Dam remains a source of controversy, with ongoing concerns about its environmental impact, safety, and economic viability. The dam has been associated with declining water quality in the Macal River, and there have been reports of sediment discharges contaminating the river and marine systems downstream.

The Macal River is a habitat for many rare and endangered species

The Macal River is home to over a dozen rare and endangered species, including two threatened megafauna: the jaguar (*Panthera onca*) and Baird's tapir (*Tapirus bairdii*), which is Belize's largest land animal and the national animal of Belize. The river also provides a habitat for the scarlet macaw, the black howler monkey, and the orange-breasted falcon. The ancient Mayan urban society occupied the lower portions of the Macal Watershed, and several regional habitations are still identifiable, including the Cahal Pech site and the unexcavated site at Chaa Creek.

The Macal River winds through large expanses of primary and secondary growth broadleaf tropical forest, including a substantial tract of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve and National Park. The watershed consists of closed-canopy upland forests and a fertile floodplain, often overgrown with dense jungle vegetation that trails into the river's verges. The river is subject to rapid stage height rise due to the steep terrain of the headwaters region and the high rainfall of the upper Macal Basin, contributing to downstream flooding of the Belize River.

The Macal River is an important ecological area, providing a habitat for numerous rare and endangered species and supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. The river's surrounding landscape, including its forests and floodplain, contribute to its ecological significance and make it a valuable natural environment.

The Macal River is an important source of drinking water

The Macal River in Belize is a vital source of drinking water and has been for centuries. The river runs through the Cayo District in western Belize, flowing in a northerly direction from the rugged Maya Mountains. Along its path, it joins with the Mopan River, forming the Belize River. The Macal River is an essential waterway with a long history of serving the region's ancient Maya population, as well as European settlers, and continues to be a significant resource for the local communities and wildlife.

For the ancient Maya, the Macal River was a superhighway, connecting urban, trade, and ceremonial centres. It facilitated transportation, communication, trade, food, hygiene, and recreation. The river was integral to the Maya Empire, providing a vital link between the interior and coastal trade routes. The river's role in the timber industry was also significant, as logs were floated downstream to the coast for processing and shipping. The river was also used to transport people and goods, with dugout canoes, known as dories, plying the waters.

The river continues to be an important source of drinking water for the local communities. The Macal River is subject to rapid stage height rise due to the steep terrain of its headwaters region and the high rainfall in the upper basin. This contributes to downstream flooding of the Belize River. The lower river is navigable year-round with canoes, providing access to the river's resources and supporting transportation.

The river is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the jaguar and Baird's tapir, Belize's largest land animal. The river's catchment basin covers approximately 1,492 square kilometres, encompassing primary and secondary growth broadleaf tropical forest. The river's watershed includes closed-canopy upland forests and a fertile floodplain, often overgrown with dense jungle vegetation.

The Macal River's role as a source of drinking water is further emphasised by the presence of hydroelectric dams along its course. There are three hydroelectric dams mentioned in the sources, including the Chalillo Hydroelectric Dam, completed in 2005. The construction of this dam generated controversy due to its potential impact on the surrounding rainforest.

The Macal River is used for canoe trips and jungle resorts

The Macal River, which runs through the Cayo District in western Belize, is a popular destination for canoe trips and is home to several jungle resorts. The river originates in the rugged Maya Mountains and flows north, passing through limestone hills and jungle before joining the Mopan River to form the Belize River.

The Macal River is known for its scenic beauty, with cliffs, cave openings, and abundant wildlife. The river is home to a variety of bird species, and adventurers may even spot the tracks of larger mammals such as tapirs, white-lipped peccary, armadillos, and jaguars along the riverbank. The river also holds historical significance, with unexcavated Maya sites dotting its banks.

Canoe trips on the Macal River often depart from San Ignacio, passing under the historic Hawksworth Bridge and venturing into the lush green jungle. These trips offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural environment and experience the river's tranquility and adventure. One popular destination for canoeists is the Chaa Creek Resort, a luxury eco-resort known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. The resort features a medicinal plants trail, a Blue Morpho butterfly farm, and a natural history museum.

The lower portions of the Macal River are easily accessible and ideal for canoe trips and jungle resorts. The river is navigable year-round, and except for the peak flow periods from June to October, it is even possible to canoe upstream against the current. The river's moderate difficulty makes it suitable for a range of canoeing enthusiasts, from beginners to experienced paddlers.

The Macal River is also home to several jungle resorts that offer comfortable accommodations and provide access to a variety of activities. These resorts are typically located in the lowest reach of the river, offering easy access to the banks of the Macal for flotation or canoe trips to San Ignacio. Visitors can explore the surrounding wilderness, including the nearby Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, which boasts Belize's largest limestone caverns.

Frequently asked questions