San Miguel

San Miguel Protected Landscape, located in south-central Uruguay, protects grassland and wetland ecosystems characteristic of the country's interior regions. This protected area encompasses native grasslands, seasonal wetlands, and riparian corridors that support diverse wildlife adapted to the dynamic conditions of Uruguay's temperate grasslands. The landscape features gently rolling terrain with shallow wetlands that expand and contract seasonally, creating habitat mosaics important for grassland birds, waterfowl, and amphibians. San Miguel represents the Campos grassland ecosystem that once covered extensive areas of Uruguay and neighboring regions but has been significantly modified by agricultural development. The protected landscape designation aims to conserve representative grassland and wetland habitats while working with ranchers who continue traditional extensive cattle grazing. This approach recognizes that well-managed grazing can maintain grassland biodiversity and that conservation requires collaboration with private landowners who manage most of Uruguay's remaining native grasslands.

The San Miguel region's grasslands developed following the last Ice Age, with fire and grazing by native herbivores shaping the ecosystem before human arrival. Indigenous peoples managed grasslands through controlled burning and seasonal movements tracking game and plant resources. Spanish colonization introduced cattle and horses that became feral and later formed the basis of the livestock economy. The area became part of large estancias during the 19th century, with extensive cattle ranching as the primary land use—a pattern that continues today. Through the 20th century, agricultural intensification converted some grasslands to crops or exotic pastures, while others remained under traditional management. Environmental recognition of native grasslands' biodiversity value grew in the 1990s-2000s, leading to conservation initiatives. Designation as a Protected Landscape within Uruguay's National System of Protected Areas represented a collaborative conservation model working with private ranchers rather than excluding traditional uses. This approach acknowledges that moderate grazing maintains grassland character and that successful conservation requires engaging rather than displacing rural communities.

San Miguel Protected Landscape is accessible via rural roads from nearby towns, though specific access points vary as most land is privately owned. Visitor infrastructure is minimal, reflecting the working landscape designation and private ownership. Access typically requires coordination with local landowners or guides who can arrange permission and provide orientation. Birdwatching is the primary visitor activity, with grassland specialists including seedeaters, meadowlarks, and ground-doves observable along with wetland species in seasonal lagoons. Photography opportunities showcase the expansive grassland landscapes and diverse birdlife. Some estancias within or near the protected area offer rural tourism experiences including horseback riding, traditional gaucho activities, and wildlife viewing. These provide authentic experiences of Uruguayan ranching culture while supporting conservation-compatible economic activities. The area is best visited during spring (September-November) when grasslands flower and birds are breeding, or during autumn when migratory species concentrate. Summer can be hot with less bird activity, while winter offers interesting waterfowl concentrations but less comfortable conditions. Visitors should be prepared for remote conditions, respect private property, and arrange access in advance through local contacts or tourism operators.

Conservation at San Miguel emphasizes maintaining native grassland ecosystems through sustainable ranching practices. Grazing management focuses on stocking rates and seasonal patterns that maintain plant diversity and structure important for wildlife while supporting livestock production. This requires balancing cattle numbers with forage availability and avoiding overgrazing that degrades habitat. Grassland monitoring tracks plant community composition and ground-nesting bird populations as indicators of ecosystem health. Efforts to prevent conversion to exotic pasture grasses or cropland work through conservation agreements that provide incentives for maintaining native grasslands. Wetland protection maintains natural hydrology, preventing drainage while managing water resources for both wildlife and livestock. Fire management uses controlled burning to maintain grassland structure and prevent woody plant encroachment, adapting traditional practices for conservation goals. The protected area participates in broader Campos grassland conservation initiatives spanning Uruguay, Argentina, and Brazil. Research programs study grassland ecology and sustainable management practices that benefit both biodiversity and ranching. Climate change adaptation addresses altered rainfall patterns and temperature increases that could shift grassland composition. Community engagement involves ranchers as conservation partners, recognizing their knowledge and providing technical support for implementing wildlife-friendly practices that maintain their livelihoods.