WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
AGUA BENDITA – RESERVA BIÓSFERA DE MONTES AZULES CHIAPAS,
MÉXICO
TRIP REPORT
Related to Site Visits made by Ramón Lucero, Jr.
to the State of Chiapas, Mexico
April 13 – April 20, 2016
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
Page 1
WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Community:
Tierra y Libertad – Autonomous Zapatista Community located
approximately one-hour walk (in the dry season) from the community
of Miguel Hidalgo or one-hour walk from Vicente Guerrero, Chiapas,
México
Water System Improvement Project to include spring catchment
system to capture four distinct springs into a single transmission line
to a water storage tank, distribution lines to individual homes
culminating with a water spigot to the outside of each dwelling unit.
Population:
65 homes with a population of approximately 450 people
Local Leaders:
Eduardo Lopez Lopez, Autoridad,
Please see the attached copy of the communities 2013 fundingsolicitation
Proposed Cost:
Based on a site visit by Maestro José during the week of April 23-29,
2016 where he developed a detailed list of materials to complete the
project and a cost estimate from the hardware store in San Cristobal
de las Casas received on July 4, 2016, the cost to complete the project
including materials and labor is 210,696 Mexican Pesos. Attached
please find the project cost estimates. Based on the exchange rate of
$1 USD equals 18.6122 MXN on July 16, 2016 this equates to $11,320.
WEFTA:
There is currently approximately $10,500 set aside for this project
Path to Proposed Spring Catchment Site
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Tierra y Libertad Proposed Tank Site
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Young boys in front of church in Tierra y Libertad
Attached please find the list of materials needed to complete the project. The list was developed
based on a site visit Maestro José conducted between April 23 – 29, 2016 to measure the amount
of transmission line which will be needed between the spring catchment area to the proposed
tank site and the distribution lines from the tank site to the individual homes. The transmission
line from the spring to the tank will be 4-inch poly-ducto and the distribution line will consist of
2-inch poly-ducto along the main pathways and ½-inch line to the individual homes.
The water storage tank will be sized using the following formula:
450 people x 60 gallons per person per day = 27,000 gallons per day x 3.785412 = 102,206 liters
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Village:
Miguel Hidalgo – Chiapas, México
Miguel Hidalgo is a Zapatista community with 150 homes and approximately 1,750 people. The
community is organized similar to a development in the suburbs of any major US city, although
it is in the middle of the jungle, with the best mode of transportation to arrive in the community
being a small motorized boat (lancha) on the Rio Jatate. Each house is on a 50 square meter
piece of property, divided in blocks and separated by areas which could be classified as roads.
A new water system for the community was completed in 2011. The project included a spring
catchment tank at the manantial (spring), approximately 1,600 meters of 2-inch and 2-1/2-inch
PVC from the manantial through the jungle to a new water storage tank and finally PVC pipe
from the water storage tank culminating with an outdoor spigot to the outside of each dwelling.
Prior to bringing the waterline into the community, the women and children gathered their water
from an arroyo at the bottom of a steep bank near the community. Due to the heavy rains in the
region, the water was often the color of chocolate milk and full of silt from the runoff.
Two years later, members of the community are doing a great job maintaining the water system.
After five years, people from the community are as appreciative of the water system today as
they were when first installed. As a result of the project the community has seen a decline in
water borne illnesses, especially to the infants and the elderly.
With the goal of efficiently operating and maintaining the system, two families are chosen
annually for this purpose. Usually the families’ responsibility are to conduct a visual inspection
of the spring catchment tank, the waterline between the spring and the tank, the water storage
tank and the outdoor spigots at each dwelling. Once the evaluation is complete, the families
organize other families in the community to assist in making the necessary repairs.
Repairs usually include maintenance of the spring catchment tank to guarantee the containment
of all available water, protecting the PVC pipe from the sun by planting cacao and other similar
vegetation for shade, and ensuring that water for each outdoor spigot has the appropriate
drainage in order to avoid pools were mosquitos can hatch and live.
Over the past six months there have been several breaks in the transmission line from the spring
to the water storage tank. All of the breaks are within a 100 meter section of line located at the
lowest elevation of the transmission line. According to the technical specifications for the 2-inch
Poliducto Hidraulico Cedula 80 it is only meant to withstand pressures of 56.89 psi. 2-inch
Schedule 80 PVC pipe from the US can withstand pressures of 400 psi. According to survey
completed by Mr. Alvaro Farias the elevation differences between the spring and the 100-foot
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
section of line where the Poliducto is leaking are approximatley 145 feet, causing pressures of
approximately 63 pounds per square inch.
Potential solutions to this problem may be the following:



Replace 2-inch poliducto cedula 80 with galvanized pipe
o This is potentially an expensive alternative however it can be long-lasting
solution. This solution would also require an un-determined amount of bends to
maintain a similar alignment between the spring tank and the water storage tank
Replace 2-inch poliducto cedula 80 with a stronger polyethelene pipe
o The hardware store in San Cristobal does not carry anything stronger that Cedula
80. A stronger polyethelene line may need to be imported from either other parts
of Mexico or the US
Install pressure reducing vaults or valves
o Construction a pressure reducing vault or install pressure reducing valves. The
hardware store in San Cristobal can obtain a Retention Valve. We’ve recently
requested the techinical specifications. The cost of a 2-1/2-inch retention valve is
2,970 pesos or $204 dollars
Over the next couple of weeks I will work with colleagues to establish the best possible
altenative and cost estimates to address the leaking transmission line.
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Estevan showing us the ruptured transmission line. Estevan is one of the Water
Authorities in the community of Miguel Hidalgo
Ruptured transmission line in Miguel Hidalgo
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Miguel Hidalgo children find relief for the 100+ degree temperatures commonly found in the
Biosfera del Monte Azul by swimming in the Rio Jatate
Village:
Laguna Chum Cerro – Chiapas, Mexico
Laguna Chum Cerro is a community divided by Zapatista and non-Zapatista families, which
seem to get along well. There are approximately 20 families with a total population of
approximately 200 people.
In 2010 approximately 2,520 meters of 2-inch waterline were installed from the manantial to the
new water storage tank in the community. Distribution waterline was installed from the water
storage tank to a spigot in front of each dwelling.
In 2011 construction of 15 latrines and outdoor showers were completed in the community of
Laguna Chum Cerro. While construction of the concrete septic tanks was expensive due to the
high cost of cement, labor and transportation of materials, the combination of the new water
system and the latrines offer a higher quality of life from a sanitary and health perspective.
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
In 2013 construction of six additional latrines were completed to accommodate a future school
building, the church and for additional growth in the community.
During our current visit to Chum Cerro, we completed a thorough inspection of the entire water
system and the latrines.
During our visit in 2013 it was decided that additional work was needed to fully contain all
available water from the spring. The work was completed utilizing the following design by
Kees.
The additional work included the installation of a protected containment tank with a protruding
8-inch PVC waterline. Water from the containment tank was directly piped to an existing spring
catchment tank which delivers water directly to the community.
With the goal of increasing gravity into the community, members buried the transmission line
over an area of approximately 750 meters where the waterline intersected a piece of land which
was elevated.
In addition, there were five sections in the distribution line between the spring catchment tank
and the community water storage tank that were leaking and have been repaired.
Community members from Laguna Chum Cerro remain extremely grateful to WEFTA for
providing them with a source of safe drinking water and latrines. The addition of the latrines
provides a long-term solution to the protection of ground and surface water sources in and
around the community.
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Community:
Benito Juarez Miramar
Population:
55 homes with a population of approximately 600 people
Local Leaders:
Please see the attached copy of the leaders 2016 solicitation for
additional latrines
Project:
2015/2016 latrine project for 53 homes
Proposed Cost:
Approximately $45,000 was donated by the Shumacher Foundation
and WEFTA for the 53 latrines constructed in 2015 and 2016.
WEFTA:
Need Sponsor for additional latrines and an extension to the existing
water system to meet the needs of more families
A total of 33 latrines were fully completed in 2015 and 2016. The remaining 20 latrines were
partially started however remained incomplete due to a lack of plumbing materials and additional
funding for labor. The remaining plumbing materials have recently been purchased by
returning four rolls of wire mesh which were left over from the project. Money from the return
was used to purchase the necessary plumbing materials. To complete the remaining 20 latrines, it
will take approximately seven full days of labor or $1,000 plus transportation between the
community of Altamirano to Benito Juarez. Transportation costs are approximately $100.
Concrete septic tank with two separate chambers. The toilet is installed over one chamber and
the shower is installed over the second chamber
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
The overflow between the two chambers are interconnected to flow to a single discharge
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
Page 11
WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Water is discharged to a constructed wetland, which is an excavated cell filled with sand that serves to
filter out odors. The filter consists of native plants whose roots in the sand are fed by the wastewater.
The nutrients in the water are absorbed by the native plants which sequester them in their tissues as
they grow. The nutrients absorbed are eliminated with the native plants, whose remnants for an
insulating layer. The purified water filters from the wetland into the ground.
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Lumber from the surrounding rain forest is used to build homes and latrines alike.
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Home built with lumber from the surrounding rainforest.
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Latrine built with lumber from the surrounding rainforest
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Latrine and shower under construction
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Interior of completed latrine
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
Page 17
WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
A second example of the interior of a completed latrine
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Interior of a complete shower
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
A second example of the interior of a completed shower
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
Page 20
WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Shower drain
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Maestro José next to a recently completed latrine and shower
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Maestro José and recently completed latrine and shower
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Recently completed latrine and shower
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Latrine and shower under construction
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Attachment A
2013 Tierra Y Libertad Project Solicitation
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Attachment B
Tierra y Libertad Project Cost Estimates
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Attachment C
Benito Juarez 2015-2016 Latrine Project Budget
Tracking Form
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Attachment D
Latrine Materials List
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
Page 29
LISTA DE MATERIAL PARA UNA LETRINA
FECHA: 13/07/2016
MATERIAL
CEMENTO CRUZ AZUL
VARILLA 3/8
MALLALACK CALIBRE 66.44
MALLA PAJARERA
ALAMBRE DE AMARRE
TUBO PVC 4 PULG
TUBO PVC 2 PULG
COLADERA 4 PULG
T DE PVC 4 PULG
CODO PVC 4 PULG 90°
REDUCCION 4 PULG. SALIDA 2 PULG.
CODO 90° 2 PULG.
CODO 45° 2 PULG.
T PVC 2 PULG.
PIJA 1 PULG.
ADAPTADOR MACHO BRONCE 1/2 PULG.
ABRAZADERA OMEGA 1/2 PULG.
ABRAZADERA SIN FIN 3/4 PULG.
VALVULA ESFERA 1/2 PULG. ROSCABLE
CODO GALVANIZADO 90°
T GALVANIZADO 1/2 PULG. 1 PZA
NIPLE 10 CM GALVANIZADO 1/2 PULG.
LLAVE NARIZ DE ESFERA 1/2 PULG.
COPLE GALVANIZADO 1/2 PULG.
REGADERA
MANGUERA POLIDUCTO 1/2 PULG. CEDULA 40
LIJA
PEGAMENTO PVC
CLAVO 2 1/2 PULG.
TEFLON 3/4
MANGUERA POLIDUCTO 2 PULG. CEDULA 80
LAMINA GALVANIZADO 2.44 MTS
TAZA
CLAVO DE SOMBRILLA 3 PULG
CLAVO 2 1/2 PULG.
CLAVO 4 PULG.
VISAGRA 4 PULG.
ABRAZADERA SIN FIN 2 1/2 PULG.
T ADOMEX 1/2 PULG.
NOTA: TIEMPO DE TRABAJO 7 DIAS
CANTIDAD
8 BULTOS
5 PZAS
7 MTS
12 MTS
4 KG
2 MTS
1 MTS
1 PZAS
2 PZAS
2 PZAS
2 PZAS
1 PZA
2 PZAS
1 PZA
12 PZAS
5 PZAS
6 PZAS
10 PZAS
1 PZA
1 PZA
1 PZA
1 PZA
1 PZA
1 PZA
1 PZA
35 MTS
1 MT
1 BOTE (125ML)
1 KG
5 PZAS
30 MTS
6 PZAS
1 PZA
1 KG
5 KG
2 KG
2 PARES
2 PZAS
1 PZA
WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Attachment E
Benito Juarez 2016 Project Solicitation
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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WEFTA SPONSORED TRIP TO
CHIAPAS, MÉXICO
Attachment F
2016 Chiapas Trip Expenses
April 13 – April 20, 2016
Ramón 505-660-2186 ramon.lucero@soudermiller.com
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