Livestock Farmers in Carrillo Puerto Desperate for Aid

Felipe Carrillo Puerto has been grappling with an extended drought since January, putting the livelihoods of livestock farmers in the Mayan community of Chan Santa Cruz at risk. Over 600 cattle have been left without food as pastures dry out due to lack of rain.

Don Fernando Yam Tzuc, a local rancher, explained how the drought has affected his cattle. "The grass in the pastures has dried out, because it hasn't rained since January of this year. Four months of drought are already showing their effects. The livestock no longer have food, and this puts us in a bind. Without it, the animals suffer," he said.

The drought has prompted livestock producers from the community to seek help from the local Livestock Union offices. They've submitted requests to government authorities, urging for immediate action. The livestock urgently need supplements such as poultry manure, hay bales, and molasses. They can't wait for the government to take action or for elections to be over, as the situation is critical. The longer the drought continues, the more the cattle risk becoming malnourished or even dying.

"The more than 10 ranchers in this community, who are considered small producers, are struggling to survive. We're forced to sell our animals for slaughter and invest the profits into supplies, tools, and food for the cows. But this is not sufficient," Tzuc said.

He confirmed that requests have been submitted to governmental institutions such as the Secretariat of Development, Agriculture, Rural and Fisheries (SEDARPE). However, despite the urgency of the situation, they have yet to see any concrete action.