The reserve was created in 2007 following intense mobilization by local fishing communities seeking to protect their traditional territories from industrial development.
It is one of the few conservation units in Brazil that spans two different states, requiring integrated management between Pernambuco and Paraíba.
The estuary is a crucial habitat for the manatee, a marine mammal species that is critically endangered in the region.
Local extractivist activities are legally regulated to ensure the reproductive cycles of crab and shellfish populations are not disrupted.
The landscape is characterized by constant sediment transport and shifting sandbars typical of highly dynamic estuarine environments.
Reserva Extrativista Acaú-Goiana is a federally protected sustainable-use conservation unit spanning approximately 6,700 hectares across the border of Pernambuco and Paraíba states. The reserve protects a complex estuarine ecosystem, including mangroves, Atlantic Forest remnants, and coastal salt marshes. It serves as a vital resource for local traditional communities who rely on artisanal fishing and the sustainable extraction of crustaceans and mollusks. The area is defined by the Goiana River estuary, which acts as a nursery for numerous marine species. It is a critical site for the biodiversity of the northeastern Brazilian coast, supporting various threatened species. Management focus remains on balancing environmental protection with the economic autonomy of its traditional extractivist residents.
The elevated riverbanks near the confluence of the Goiana River and the Atlantic Ocean.
Hire a local guide from the resident community to navigate the mangrove channels safely.
Bring effective insect repellent, as the estuarine environment is prone to heavy mosquito presence.
Wear footwear appropriate for mud and shallow water, as walking through the mangrove ecosystem is often necessary.
Attempting to explore the dense mangrove forest without a knowledgeable local guide, as the terrain is unstable and easy to get lost in.
Respect the subsistence nature of the local economy; do not disturb fishing nets or traps without permission.
