In Guayama, Puerto Rico, José 'Moncho' Mazo has been working to conserve the town’s thermal water wells, specifically the Pozos de Virella, which are a historic site and provide potable water. Mazo, a native of Guayama, discovered the wells in 2020 after hearing 'urban legends’ and exploring the area. He found the wells on leased land, reportedly owned by the Autoridad de Tierras, which was being used for cattle grazing.
The wells were covered in vegetation, and Mazo actually fell into one of them while searching. He believes that conserving the wells could help alleviate the water shortage affecting some Puerto Rican families during the current drought. Mazo’s search for the wells was driven by his interest in exploration and history, which he developed through conversations with older adults in his community and bibliographic research.
The Pozos de Virella are not only a source of water but also a historic site that deserves protection, according to Mazo.