Journal of Science Policy & Governance
Volume 25, Issue 01 | October 28, 2024

Policy Memo: From Clandestine to Certified: Shaping a Sustainable and Equitable Future for Bacanora Production in Sonora

Madison Niffenegger1,2, Lea Ibarra3, Caitlyn A. Hall4,5
  1. University of Arizona, School of Geography, Development & Environment, Tucson, Arizona, USA
  2. Johns Hopkins University, Environmental Sciences and Policy Program, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
  3. Universidad de Sonora, La Facultad Interdisciplinaria de Ciencias Biológicas y de Salud, Hermosillo, Sonora, México
  4. University of Arizona, College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences, Tucson, Arizona, USA
  5. University of Arizona, College of Engineering, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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​Corresponding author:  [email protected] ​​​
Keywords: bacanora production; agave; environmental sustainability and conservation​
https://doi.org/10.38126/JSPG250112

Executive Summary

The international popularity of traditional agave spirits, like bacanora, is growing. However, the Sonoran Council’s inaction in ensuring equity among producers and sustainable agriculture practices raises concerns about the product’s future. While bacanora production has transitioned from being outlawed in Mexico to being protected under a Denomination of Origin (DO), social and environmental issues persist due to the Council’s lack of proactive measures. Ensuring sustainable bacanora production is crucial for cultural and economic longevity within the industry. Herein, we recommend that the Sonoran Council implement a funded initiative to reduce small-scale producers' barriers: difficulties in qualifying for certification, overharvesting, and financial strife among small-scale producers. Additionally, policies should be in place to formally expand conservation efforts that support sustainable agricultural techniques. These recommendations seek to ensure the longevity of the bacanora industry and support the traditional knowledge that has persisted throughout history.

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Background header image courtesy of mezcalista
Madison Niffenegger graduated with a B.S. in Geography and a B.A. in Environmental Studies from the University of Arizona. She is a recipient of the Environmental Professionals of Arizona Scholarship and among the first to be honored as a Policy Scholar at the Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy. Madison plans to further her education in graduate school where she will focus her studies on environmental justice and policy. It is her goal to integrate equity and sustainability into future climate policies in her career.  

Lea Ibarra is an environmental conservationist who graduated from the Universidad de Sonora with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. She specializes in terrestrial natural resources and founded the Sonora Silvestre Collective. Lea’s collaborative approach towards sustainability within the bacanora industry integrates governmental and non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and communities across the Sonora-Arizona border. She advocates for equitable access to resources and sustainable management within the Mexican agricultural sector. 

Caitlyn A. Hall is an Assistant Professor of Practice in the Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Arizona. She oversees the W.A. Franke Honors College’s Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and Innovation degree program. Caitlyn focuses on integrating environmental justice, natural hazard resilience, science policy, and communication. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental engineering at Arizona State University and her B.S. and M.S. at the University of Arizona.

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