Hi everyone, I did a 10 day complete raft descent of the Rio Platano in April of 2010 with a guided group. I am a world explorer and this supposedly protected Biosphere Reserve is an amazing experience to say the least! However, to our dismay we witnessed and found evidence of uncontrolled encroachment! Illegal fishing camps harvesting and salting thousands of fish to be taken out bu horse to be sold. Clear cutting slash and burn of flat areas for cattle and remains of animals killed poachers. Our group of concerned scientists and conservationists is trying to bring attention to this "Paradise in Peril". We are advocating for more protection of this wonderful place. Thanks for the forum to reach out. Robert