The project area is located in the El Zapote watershed, part of a group of 15 watersheds that provide water for the Metropolitan Guatemala City region (Figure 1). The properties are located in the Cordillera Alux Forest Reserve, which is one of the main areas of water recharge for Guatemala City. It was declared a protected area in 1989. However, population growth, increasing demand for wood products, and a lack of enforcement of existing legislation threaten the future status of these lands. In addition, future economic objectives could promote land use changes. This project focuses on forest protection, and reforestation around areas used for row crops.