Uploaded on 2015-12-15 by makaramos

Metro Manila is a highly urbanized area. The La Mesa Watershed Reservation preserves the only major watershed in Metro Manila, Philippines. It hosts the last remaining rainforest of its size in Metro Manila surrounding the La Mesa Dam and Reservoir, Though are other small spaces that have greenery, very few can be considered as Ecosystem Service or at least have enough scope to see the an impact as great as that of La Mesa Watershed Reservation. In 2007, La Mesa Watershed reservation was established. It is the primary source of potable drinking water for 12 million residents in the Manila metropolitan area. Though in the decades prior to this the area of La Mesa Watershed Reservation was heavily disturbed. A reforestation and management of both private and public entities have greatly improved the the soil and air quality of the area. The entire area is a hub of animal activity according to www.birdwatch.ph the The La Mesa Watershed Reservation it is also an important breeding ground for different bird species. > The 2,700 hectares of La Meza Dam includes several habitats. It is largely reforested since the 1970’s and again in the late 1990’s. Approximately 1,800 hectares are under forest cover and 300 hectares are open areas, pastures and areas under cultivation. The dam is about 600 hectares and several portions are shallow with exposed mudflats, swampforest, reed and other swamp vegetation. Due to the combination of habitats and being largely undisturbed by humans (hunting appears to be very limited), the reservation functions as an important breeding and roosting area for a variety of wildlife species including birds. > The Wild Bird Club of the Philippines reconnaissance trip observed 38 species. However, the number of species is much higher. A UNDP-GEF sponsored ornithological inventory in portions of the reservations revealed 25 species. Of these, this WBCP-trip observed 11. Together with the UNDP- inventory the combined list is around 52 species. However, the field staff of the reservation is very familiar with other species including three species of owls. Potentially, the reservation may host around 100 bird species > This could be revealed if other habitats are being visited and access are being granted. Particularly the oldest forest portions and the dam with its different types of wetlands are important areas. Among the potential species to be observed are migratory birds such as raptors and ducks given the nearby location of the Sierra Madres and Angat Dam. Particularly the eastern watchtower will serve as a perfect study site in the month of April and September-October. Access to better view areas of the water bodies is also very needed. > — Arne Jensen December 13, 2003 In a country like the Philippines, it is very rare that public works be handled exclusively by the government. The The La Mesa Watershed Reservation is no exception. Spearheaded by one of the largest broadcast communications company in the Philippines, areas for public use and congregation were created to help people reconnect with nature. They are as follows: Lopez Picnic Grounds, Shell Flower terraces, Drilon Orchidarium, Petron Fitness and Mountain Bike Trail, Petron Amphitheater, Mini forest. Private funds also created infrastructure to host activities that will cater to tourists. They are as follows: Old Salt Water Swimming Pool Complex, New Swimming Pool Complex, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Butterfly Haven, Biking, Adventure Zone (Zip line, Bow and Arrow Fun Archery, Bungee Fun, Superferry Boating Lagoon, Various pavilions are available for private functions) The park is currently under the administration of both the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System. [1]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14501448498167169.png