Conservation and Local Development: An Attainable Balance
We’re working to implement a model that protects Puchegüín’s nature while honoring the local community’s way of life in this region. Of Puchegüín’s 133,000 hectares, about 20,000 will be set aside as a multi-use conservation area for activities such as small-scale livestock ranching and nature tourism, and more than 110,000 will be strictly protected to safeguard critical ecosystems like alerce forests and endangered species habitat.
How will we protect Puchegüín?
Fundo Puchegüín
133,000 hectares
An initiative grounded in scientific knowledge, technical expertise, and continuous community engagement
Our proces
Thanks to the support of thousands of people around the world, in December 2025, we successfully purchased Fundo Puchegüín. The purchase initiated a new phase of our work, which will now focus on developing and implementing our conservation plan. The plan will consist of a shared management and governance model that brings together scientific research and local knowledge, fully integrating local communities into strategic decision-making.
Next steps after purchasing the property
Initial protection
Apply a Derecho Real de Conservación (a Chilean legal tool to support conservation) to the land
Zoning and participatory planning
In collaboration with local communities and technical teams, designate areas for strict conservation (110,000+ hectares) and sustainable use (approximately 20,000 hectares)
Conservation planning and monitoring
Continue ongoing wildlife monitoring work and prepare conservation plan focused on endangered, endemic, and invasive species
Infrastructure improvement and implementation
Improve historic trail and install signage for regulated, low-impact tourism
Local capacity building and sustainable livelihoods
Develop training programs in partnership with local organizations, giving community members the tools needed to pursue new job opportunities in the area
Support traditional practices that are compatible with conserving local nature and culture
Integration into the National System of Protected Areas
Work with the National Service for Biodiversity and Protected Areas and the Ministry of the Environment to secure permanent protection for the area
