Morro Grande State Park: São Paulo Establishes Massive New Reserve to Protect Atlantic Forest and Critical Water Sources

On November 4, 2025, the Governor of São Paulo formally inaugurated the Morro Grande State Park. Situated within the municipalities of Cotia and Ibiúna, this newly established zone of strict environmental protection marks a significant milestone in the state’s enduring commitment to safeguarding its irreplaceable natural heritage. The park’s creation is a cornerstone of a long-term strategy designed to ensure the ecological resilience of one of Brazil’s most densely populated regions.

Spanning an impressive 10,870 hectares, the Morro Grande State Park immediately ranks among the most expansive protected sections of the Atlantic Forest within São Paulo, notably exceeding the area of the well-known Cantareira State Park. This sheer scale is vital, particularly because the park safeguards the crucial headwaters of the Cotia River. This river system is essential, providing potable water to an estimated 400,000 inhabitants residing in the surrounding metropolitan area. Consequently, ensuring the integrity of this reserve is paramount for the long-term sustainability and resilience of the entire megalopolis.

The Morro Grande ecosystem boasts truly exceptional biodiversity. Ecological surveys have documented a wealth of life, including 260 distinct species of trees and close to 200 avian species. Furthermore, it harbors a diverse population of mammals, among which are several species currently facing the threat of extinction. Functioning as a critical natural reservoir, the park provides an indispensable sanctuary for flora and fauna that rely entirely on the preservation of this untouched environment for their continued existence.

Achieving official park status represents the successful culmination of decades of dedicated effort. The movement to protect this land dates back to the 1970s, when concerted public activism successfully thwarted plans for the construction of a major airport on the site. This historical victory powerfully illustrates how foresight and unified community action can secure the long-term prosperity of a region. Looking ahead, Morro Grande State Park is slated to welcome its first visitors during the first half of 2026. This opening is anticipated to significantly boost local economies by fostering ecotourism and expanding vital environmental education initiatives, thereby creating employment opportunities for nearby communities.

State authorities have also underscored the park's importance as a catalyst for advancing scientific research, particularly in the critical field of tropical ecology. The establishment of Morro Grande reflects a profound shift in governmental philosophy—a recognition that safeguarding complex natural systems is not merely an environmental goal, but an essential component of fostering comprehensive human development and societal progress. This strategic move reinforces the understanding that ecological preservation is inextricably linked to the future well-being of the state’s population.