Abstract: The pioneer population of El Tintal settled around an ancient lagoon, that provided them with abundant fresh water during the first centuries of occupation. In addition to benefiting from the existence of this hydraulic feature, over time the population modified the landscape with the construction of monumental architecture and other features. Among these, were canals and ditches that helped maximize the use of water, and expanded their communication networks at a regional scale. The new LIDAR coverage from the area of El Tintal delivered a broad view of the cultural and natural features that characterized the settlement. When combined with the results of archaeological investigations, paleoenvironmental and paleobotanical studies, these data provide us with a more comprehensive understanding of the adaptations by the Preclassic Maya population to their natural environment, as well as the processes that contributed to the formation of a complex society.

Keywords: LIDAR, Water, Preclassic Maya, Paleoenvironment, Sociopolitical complexity.