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Story summary
- Traditional caballitos de totora reed boats in Huanchaco, used for 3,500 years, face threats from dwindling fish stocks, pollution, and competition from larger boats.
- Local fisherman Junior Huamanchumo and others struggle as catches decline.
- In 2025, sewage spills damaged reed ponds, prompting new ones with NGO support.
- Surf tourism is emerging as an economic alternative, drawing surfers and supporting the community.
- Enforcement of protections for traditional fishing remains lacking.
