Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Maasin Watershed Forest Reserve encompasses approximately 3,916 hectares of primary and secondary lowland evergreen forest located near Maasin City in Southern Leyte. Established in 1991, this forest reserve plays a crucial role in sustaining the local water supply by protecting the headwaters of various rivers and streams that provide potable water to Maasin City and nearby communities. The area's lush tropical forests support rich biodiversity, including endemic and migratory bird species, various mammals, reptiles, and a wealth of plant life, some of which are threatened due to regional deforestation pressures. Due to its proximity to the urban center, the reserve serves as an important green space for environmental education, watershed protection programs, and nature-based activities such as birdwatching and light trekking. Unlike large-scale national parks, Maasin Watershed Forest Reserve is primarily valued for its ecosystem services and water conservation functions, with limited infrastructure for heavy recreational use. Visitors can enjoy serene walks along informal forest paths, immersing themselves in equatorial rainforest ambiance and spotting native flora and fauna. The reserve’s role in protecting soil erosion and mitigating flood risks further enhances its significance for surrounding communities. Though modest in visitor amenities, the reserve remains a critical natural asset warranting continued conservation efforts in the face of expanding human activity in Southern Leyte.
