Within the framework of the National Law No. 26,331 on Native Forests and its provincial counterpart, Law 1094-L, the province of San Juan recently added a new native forest in the department of 25 de Mayo, identified through territorial surveys promoted by the Secretariat of Environment and Sustainable Development.
As explained by Gustavo Mercado, a reference in the Forestry area of the Secretariat, the incorporation follows the criteria established by the territorial planning of native forests and aims to protect native flora and fauna species at risk due to anthropic pressure and desertification.
“In December of last year, we held informative workshops in departments with greater forest coverage, such as Valle Fértil and 25 de Mayo, and that allowed us to define new areas to be preserved,” detailed Mercado to Diario Huarpe.
Financing and support for rural communities
The 2023 call included the selection of 26 beneficiary projects, most of them located in Valle Fértil, where biodiversity density is more significant. Each approved initiative will receive around $2.5 million to carry out productive activities compatible with conservation, such as traditional livestock farming, ecotourism, or habitat restoration.
The main objective of the law is to link conservation with local development, providing tools, training, and funds to rural communities living in forested areas.
Classification by color of native forests
In San Juan, the regulations establish three zoning levels:
- Red: maximum protection. Only conservation and scientific research are allowed. Example: Chacay forests.
- Yellow: sustainable economic activities that preserve the ecosystem are enabled.
- Green: productive interventions are allowed, as long as at least 20% of the original soil is preserved.
“The law does not prohibit production, but promotes responsible ways to do so in harmony with the forest,” emphasized Mercado.
One step closer to a greener and more resilient San Juan
The addition of the new forest in 25 de Mayo reinforces the provincial commitment to the preservation of natural heritage and the strengthening of sustainable rural economies, in line with sustainable development goals and climate change adaptation.
Cover photo: Conicet
