Reforestation initiatives launched in Patagonia and Paysandú

In Argentina, the Fundación Vida Silvestre Argentina, the Chubut Forestry Secretariat, and Reforestarg are launching a project to plant 109,100 native trees during September and October. The initiative aims to restore approximately 127 hectares of forests and natural reserves in Chubut that were damaged by major wildfires, particularly those occurring during the 2014-2015 season.

The planting effort will include 73,000 mountain cypresses, 35,000 coihues, and 1,100 alerces. These species are native to the Andean-Patagonian forests. Technical teams selected the sites based on fire damage levels, the presence of native versus exotic species, and natural recovery potential.

In Uruguay, the municipality of Paysandú has begun removing damaged trees in Parque París Londres as part of the ‘Plan Paysandú Reverdece’. More than 25 eucalyptus trees that were hollow or unstable are being removed to prevent accidents during expected high winds associated with the El Niño phenomenon. New species will be planted in the area and along major avenues to revitalize the city's greenery.