Chinampas are a traditional farming system developed by the Aztecs, an ancient civilization in central Mexico. These “floating gardens” have provided food for communities in what is now Mexico City for centuries. Made by layering lakebed mud to create fertile islands, chinampas are essential to the region’s agriculture. However, urban growth is threatening their survival. As the city expands, many farmers are turning away from chinampa cultivation for more profitable uses like soccer fields. Cassandra Garduño, a farmer dedicated to saving this tradition, notes that interest in chinampa farming is fading. Low market prices for chinampa-grown produce have led some families to sell or rent their lands, risking the loss of this important cultural practice.

Despite these challenges, efforts to restore chinampa farming are underway. Garduño is part of Chinampa Refuge, a group focused on sustainable farming and educating younger generations about the importance of chinampas. Ecologist Luis Zambrano’s research highlights the benefits of chinampas, which can produce multiple crops without chemicals or heavy irrigation. Preserving chinampas also supports wildlife and helps regulate urban temperatures. However, converting farmland into recreational areas raises environmental issues, as increased chemical use harms the ecosystem. Local authorities are working to manage these developments to protect the chinampas, helping this UNESCO World Heritage site endure in modern times.