Laguna de Yuriria. 02/02/04; Guanajuato; 15,020 ha; 20°15'N 101°08'W. National Protected Area. An artificial freshwater lake built as a consequence of the deviation of the Lerma River through a canal built in 1548, considered to be the first hydraulic engineering construction of colonial America. It is one of the most important freshwater lakes in Mexico, located in a semi-arid zone at 1740m and supporting important populations of migratory birds, including Buteo jamaisensis (Red-tailed hawk), Falco peregrinus (Peregrine falcon), Myadestes townsendi (Townsend's solitaire), Anas discors (Blue-winged teal), Anas americana (American wigeon), Icterus wagleri (Black-vented oriole), Icterus cucullatus (Hooded oriole), Anas diazi, and Geothlypies speciosa. Water supply is a key role played by this lake and it has an important effect in the microclimate of the area. Agricultural expansion and urban development are the main threats to the site's character. The management and restoration plans are being drafted by the National Institute of Ecology (INE) to undertake concrete actions to achieve the sustainable management of the Yuruiria Basin. Ramsar site no. 1361. Most recent RIS information: 2004.