In a day full of symbolism and environmental commitment, the Minister of Environment and Circular Economy of the province of Córdoba, Victoria Flores, led the ceremony to incorporate four Private Reserves into the Provincial System of Protected Natural Areas.
This action represents a strategic advancement in the expansion of the conserved surface area in the Province of Córdoba, strengthening the public-private articulation and the creation of biological corridors.
Provincial Registry of Private Protected Areas
The initiative is part of the launch of the Provincial Registry of Private Protected Natural Areas, which aims to encourage the protection of environments of high ecological value without excluding the productive activities specific to each establishment.
“The environment is not just the task of park rangers. This administration sees it as a collective challenge,” expressed Flores, highlighting the comprehensive vision of Governor Martín Llaryora.
Reserves incorporated in Córdoba: diversity of landscapes and biological richness
The El Retiro Reserve, located in Rayo Cortado, protects a representative sector of the Chaqueña Serrana phytogeographic region. Its ecological value is enhanced by its connection with other forest patches, forming a natural corridor that is directly linked to the Cerro Colorado Provincial Reserve. Additionally, it stands out for its ornithological richness, with 142 species of identified birds on its surface.
The Los Barrancos Reserve, in the town of Luyaba, preserves an almost intact mountainous landscape, with the presence of endemic and threatened species of flora and fauna. The area protects the Luyaba Stream basin, a vital source of drinking water for human consumption and irrigation systems, in an environment without human intervention and with little presence of exotic species.
The Las Dos Hermanas Reserve, located in Arias, is managed by the Rachel & Pamela Schiele Foundation, under the administration of Marcelo Frías. It adds 4,189 hectares to the provincial system, protecting the biodiversity of the Pampas grasslands.
Of the total area, 1,500 hectares correspond to natural grasslands and 300 hectares are in pristine condition. 140 plant species and 184 bird species have been recorded, nine of them with vulnerable conservation status.
Lastly, the Monte Nativo Reserve, in the town of El Tío, safeguards an environment of almost pristine thorn forest, without human intervention and with little presence of exotic species. This ecosystem has a strategic value for the conservation of regional biodiversity.
Equipment for active conservation
During the ceremony, the Ministry provided each reserve with work kits including:
- Tools for prevention of forest fires
- Camera traps for fauna monitoring
- Basic equipment: GPS, first aid kits, signage, and posters
Furthermore, the creation of the Provincial Registry of Municipal and Communal Protected Natural Areas was announced, which will allow for the incorporation of new conservation units managed by local governments and communities.
Provincial Day of Park Rangers: tribute and recognition
The day coincided with the celebration of the Provincial Day of Park Rangers, officially established by law based on a proposal presented by legislator Brenda Austin. “Establishing this date is a momentous act that reflects the government’s commitment to those who protect our ecosystems,” stated Minister Flores.
Deputy Secretary Martín Guzmán provided the park rangers with uniforms and equipment, recognizing their work in:
- Environmental surveillance
- Education and awareness
- Support for scientific research
- Assistance to visitors and local communities
Cover photo: Courtesy of La Voz
