Holi Beach in Puerto Vallarta has lost 13 square meters of surface area in the last decade

Holi Beach, located in Puerto Vallarta, next to the mouth of the El Pitillal River, has lost more than 13 square meters of effective surface area in just over a decade, which represents a decrease of more than 30 percent in its area available for recreational use, according to research conducted by the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Research Laboratory of University Center of the Coast (CUCosta) of the UdeG.

The person in charge of this laboratory, teacher Luis Fernando González GuevaraHe explained that the records obtained through topographic surveys show that In 2012 the beach had an effective area of ​​43,658 square meterswhile the most recent measurements, made with high-precision satellite technology, They report only 30,364 square meters.

“We are observing a reduction of 13,294 square meters of effective beach, resulting from natural processes associated with coastal dynamics, but also from human interventions and the proliferation of structures that modify natural behavior "from the beach," he complained.

He added that the presence of groynes, rock revetments, and various structures installed along the coastal zone has contributed to modifying the area's sedimentary dynamics. And to this is added the progressive occupation of beach spaces by different economic actorsThis situation, he stated, requires stricter oversight by the authorities to guarantee free access to and use of a public asset.

One of the busiest beaches
 

Holi Beach is considered one of the most visited beaches in the municipality by residents and national and international tourists. It has an approximate length of 992 linear meters, stretching between the mouth of the Pitillal River and the Los Tules stream.

Its popularity stems, among other factors, from the availability of services, accessibility, and parking spaces; characteristics that make it a important recreation spot for locals and visitors. However, the researcher warned that the increase in infrastructure and the occupation of spaces within the federal maritime-terrestrial zone have gradually reduced the areas available for public use.

They evaluate load capacity
 

As part of the studies carried out by the laboratory, an evaluation was prepared of the so-called “physical carrying capacity”an indicator that allows estimate the maximum number of people that can occupy a space without compromising its functionality.

Based on the current beach area, the results indicate that Up to 773 people could gather. considering a space of five square meters per user; however, when applying more conservative criteria of ten square meters per person, The capacity is reduced to just over three thousand people.

In addition, the researchers incorporated correction factors related to the timing of rain, times of greatest solar exposure, and natural processes that modify the extent of the beach. 

Under these conditions, the “actual load capacity” decreases considerably, standing at approximately 728 people with the criterion of five square meters per userand in 865 people with the criterion of ten square meters.

Sustainable management tool
 

González Guevara emphasized that determining carrying capacity does not seek to restrict public access to beaches, but rather to generate scientific information that contributes to better management of these spaces.

“The beach is a resource shared by various social and economic sectors. In addition to visitors, it is a hub for tourism service providers, merchants, recreational activities, and businesses. Therefore, It is essential to have technical criteria that allow for its balanced use."He said.

He said that this information can serve as a reference for the authorities responsible for the administration of the Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat), particularly in the processes of authorization of permits, concessions and economic activities developed in the coastal strip.

He also emphasized the importance of promote comprehensive management plans that consider environmental, social and economic aspects to guarantee the sustainability of Puerto Vallarta's beaches.

"International certifications are important, but they alone do not guarantee sustainability"The key is to have management strategies based on scientific information that allow us to conserve these spaces and ensure their responsible use for future generations," he concluded.

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Text: CUCosta
Photo: Courtesy of CUCosta