Geomorphological outlook

SCRR is unique in Belize for two main reasons. The underground hydrology separates it from the Belize river valley to its own slowly flowing waters that run from South to North. It is the only watershed in the country with this opposite flow effect. A Hilly terrain surrounded by flat land help create this effect and also attract rainfall from passing clouds. A difference in air to surface temperature rapidly creates a cool moist irrigation mechanism (fog) that helps plants endure the harsh dry season. We receive the greatest amount of moisture from the rolling fog that blows against the hills, because the reserve is on the windward side of the creek. The prevailing winds from North and East and the slow undercurrent from south and west allow easy canoing both up and down the creek with little to no resistance.

The geology consists of clay, black alluvial compost and limestone on a granite base providing rich nutrients to the farm land. We use several organic inputs like burnt rice hulls from the mill, wood grinds and any manure we can get our hands on. This compost, black topsoil and over 90 inches of rain per year make a tropical rain forest farm productive for growing Bamboo and other cultivar; Fruit, vegetables and oil producing palms.

The other main feature of uniqueness is the geomorphological history. Many in the village remember the earthquakes of decades ago and far away that were responsible for opening up springs from high hills that feed Spanish creek by way of gravity. These feeder springs are running fresh water year round in a place with a distinctive dry season. It is essentially this water source that attracts an abundance of animals during the dry season.

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