One of the main poblems affecting Ribera Norte is the amount of trash that is landed on the grounds when there is a high tide. This usually happens when high tides combine with strong winds. The waters bring in floating material such as plastic bags, empty plastic bottles, Styrofoam, and other non-degradable objects. So, though the trash can sometines be unsighlty, it is not foul. The river also brings in mountains of reeds, floating logs, leaves, etc. When the waters subside, the trash ends up getting caught on branches, roots, etc. The bushes perform as a giant comb, keeping the trash in, and some dry branches end up looking like a Christmas trees that has survived a bombing - just.

After the flooding a group of volunteers begin their cleaning-up job. Huge bags are filled with hundreds of (harmless but unsightly) used plastic containers and tattered plastic. Sometimes the problem is so bad that the trail becomes impossible to walk on, piled high with dead reeds and logs.

My suggestions to the visitor are as follows:

• Make the best of the good things that the reserve has to offer, and take no notice of what is unsightly. The lush vegetation of the summer months do wonders to make the problem all but disappear, but in winter it is more noticeable. Whatever, don't let it upset you, and concentrate on your birding or enjoyment of nature. There will be many many nice things going on around you too, so work on those!.
  
  
• For one moment do reflect on the matter: you are witnessing a world-wide problem that results from consumerism and population growth. It is clear that much needs to be done regarding education and waste management in Argentina! This point is always worked on during guided visits of school children.