Reserva Managua: art and science for water conservation

Reserva Managua is a cloud forest reserve located in the mountains of El Carmen, Antioquia, Colombia. This land protects springs, streams, native flora, and wildlife that depend on the unique conditions of the cloud forest ecosystem. Water is at the heart of this territory. The name Managua means "surrounded by water" or "handful of water," reflecting our commitment to protecting the sources of life that emerge from the mountain.

I am Melissa Palacio, a Colombian artist, researcher, and environmental advocate based in Berlin, Germany. With a background in Physical Engineering and an MFA in Media Art and Design from Bauhaus University Weimar, my work explores the intersection of art, science, technology, and ecology. Through Reserva Managua, I seek to create a space where conservation, creative research, environmental education, and personal transformation can coexist.

Our vision is to develop the reserve as a living laboratory and ecological sanctuary where artists, scientists, local communities, and visitors can learn from and contribute to the protection of the forest. We aim to create educational programs, citizen science initiatives, artistic residencies, workshops, ecological trails, observation points, and creative projects that raise awareness about biodiversity and water conservation. We also envision spaces for movement, reflection, and reconnection with nature through practices such as yoga, dance, and healthy food cultivation.

The funds will help us strengthen both the conservation of the land and the infrastructure needed to make these activities possible. Priority needs include ecological trail development, wildlife observation stations, restoration efforts, sustainable water and energy systems, educational materials, community workshops, and the creation of a multifunctional eco-space for artistic, scientific, and educational activities. Funding will also support collaborations with local residents, researchers, artists, and environmental organizations.

One of our greatest challenges is developing the infrastructure and long-term resources necessary to protect the forest while creating meaningful opportunities for community engagement and environmental learning. As a privately protected reserve, we are committed to safeguarding this ecosystem, but we need support to transform this vision into a sustainable model that can generate lasting ecological and social impact.

We believe that conservation requires more than protecting land; it requires cultivating relationships. By bringing together art, science, environmental education, and community participation, Reserva Managua seeks to foster a culture of care for water, forests, and future generations. Our hope is that this cloud forest becomes a place where people not only learn about nature but also experience their deep connection to it and become active stewards of its protection.