Mount Mahury is an iconic site in French Guiana, covering more than 900 hectares on the island of Cayenne in Rémire-Montjoly. It consists of a ring of small hills and a peak rising to 162 metres, on which there are small artificial lakes (Lake Rorota, Lake Lalouette, Lake Rémire). It receives abundant rainfall, promoting forest vegetation with species that have disappeared from the surrounding plains. It is also home to abundant wildlife, including some species that are emblematic of French Guiana.
Mont Mahury also has a rich historical heritage, with pre-Columbian (engraved rocks) and colonial (Loyola and Le Diamant dwellings) remains, as well as military structures. Due to the richness of this heritage, it was classified as a picturesque site in 1982 (law of 1930), and certain areas, such as Fort Diamant and the polishers, are listed as historic monuments.
This area faces numerous pressures. The lower areas are particularly affected by increasing urbanisation and coastal erosion. At the same time, the presence of illegal farmers clearing several hectares on the upper and lower parts of the mountain is disrupting the soil, biodiversity and hydrological dynamics. These impacts threaten the ecological continuity of this remarkable site.
In this context, the Conservatoire du littoral wishes to initiate a consultation process to protect and enhance Mont Mahury. The land on the mountain is currently shared between the Collectivité Territoriale de Guyane, the Conservatoire du littoral and private individuals. It is therefore essential to establish a shared territorial approach and consultation with all stakeholders. This consultation will aim to establish a common strategy focused on several areas: protection through land management, site management, consideration of illegal farmers, restoration of degraded areas and opening the site to the public through the development of an educational trail.
Duration: 36 months
