A journey through 3 cities is what the organizations in charge of the Conserva Puchegüín project will be undertaking, an initiative of conservation that is currently raising funds to protect a 133,000-hectare climate refuge located in Northern Patagonia, in the commune of Cochamó in Chile.
The tour, called “Cochamó por Siempre”, started in Puerto Varas on September 4th, then moves on to the city of Bariloche in Argentina on September 25th, and ends in Pucón on October 3rd.
In addition to the project presentation, each date includes a discussion and a slideshow of climbing and activism in the Valley, as well as the screening of a short film produced by Patagonia Films, a premiere that was recorded last summer during the visit of renowned climbers and brand ambassadors: Tommy Caldwell, Döerte Pietron, Sean Villanueva, and Timmy O’Neill.
“It is a public event and what we are looking for is to reach more people to inspire them to connect with biodiversity, wild nature, and the immense granite walls that characterize this territory. The invitation is to deeply understand the project and to address any questions directly with the organizations involved, but it is also a call to action, to get involved, and, of course, to join the cause of protecting one of the largest biological corridors in Latin America,” emphasized Pascale Potin, manager of the creative and content area of Patagonia Latam Pacific.
To participate, you only need to fill out a form on Cochamó por siempre – Patagonia Chile. For donations, you can visit Donate – Conserva Puchegüín.
Past Dates of the “Cochamó Por Siempre” Tour
- September 4th Puerto Varas
Upcoming Dates of the “Cochamó Por Siempre” Tour
- September 25th Bariloche, Argentina
- October 3rd in Pucón
Ecological Characteristics of Cochamó Valley
Native Forests and Ancient Larch Trees
The valley is home to extensive areas of well-preserved temperate forest, where the Patagonian larch stands out, an ancestral tree capable of capturing large amounts of carbon in its wood and roots. Its longevity makes it a living witness of global climate.
Abrupt Topography
The granite walls and mountainous geography create unique microclimates that favor species conservation and hinder the progress of extractive activities, consolidating a resilient ecosystem.
Unique Biodiversity
The valley is the habitat of emblematic species such as the huemul, the Patagonian vizcacha, and Darwin’s frog, as well as endemic flora and fauna at risk of extinction. Its conservation is key to maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
Hydrological Importance
Cochamó serves as a freshwater natural reserve, with glaciers, rivers, lakes, and wetlands that sustain both biodiversity and human communities that depend on these resources.
Climatic and Ecosystemic Functions of the Valley
A territory that mitigates emissions and sustains life.
Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change
Larch trees act as natural carbon sinks, capturing atmospheric CO₂ and helping to reduce global warming. Furthermore, the preservation of the ecosystem enhances the region’s adaptation capacity to extreme events.
Essential Ecosystem Services
The valley provides water regulation, air purification, biodiversity protection, and soil stability, benefits that directly impact human well-being and environmental security.
Strategic Biological Corridor
Cochamó is consolidating itself as a Latin American-scale biological corridor, connecting protected areas and facilitating species movement in response to climate change.
Conservation of Natural Heritage
Protecting the valley ensures the preservation of one of the last temperate forests in Patagonia, an ecosystem of incalculable value.
