The **Piedras Blancas stream**, located at the foot of the **Sierra de los Comechingones**, is one of the most emblematic [natural resources](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/groenlandia-un-tesoro-de-recursos-aun-por-descubrir/) that connects the provinces of **San Luis and Córdoba**.
With crystal-clear waters and a length of **15 kilometers**, this stream forms a series of **resorts and waterfalls** that make it a [touristic and environmental attraction](https://noticiasambientales.com/turismo/colonia-carlos-pellegrini-un-tesoro-oculto-del-ecoturismo-que-gana-protagonismo-en-corrientes) of high value.
From **San Luis**, access is mainly through the **El Viejo Reserve** in **Merlo**, and from **Córdoba** through towns like **Las Albahacas** and **Villa El Chacal**.
On the side of San Luis, the town of **Piedra Blanca Arriba** stands out, known for its **colonial constructions** from the 20th century and its **white chapel of traditional style**.
Joint action against the environmental impact of illegal extraction
During the summer, environmental authorities from both provinces carried out **an inspection of the stream**, where they found the **damages caused by illegal sand extraction**:
- Elimination of roads
- Flooding of homes
- Landslides
- Economic losses for local residents
Faced with community complaints and evidence of the damage, the provinces decided to **prohibit any type of extraction in the Piedras Blancas stream**, declaring all extractive activities in its course as **illegal**.
Demographic pressure and overexploitation in the Piedras Blancas stream
The urban growth of **Villa de Merlo and its surroundings** has increased the demand for sand, causing **excessive pressure on watercourses**, especially in the **Junín department**.
However, environmental authorities clarified that there are **areas where controlled extraction is necessary** to prevent floods and protect populations.
Responsible management and water planning
**Leiva**, head of the environmental department in Merlo, highlighted the importance of **redirecting extraction to authorized courses**, where channeling **protects the soil and the safety of residents**.
“We want to protect the Piedras Blancas stream, but also provide solutions to producers. The key is to intervene where needed, with environmental and community criteria,” he pointed out.
Active conservation for a shared resource
The coordinated decision of **Córdoba and San Luis** marks an important step in the **protection of the interprovincial natural heritage**, recognizing the ecological, touristic, and social value of the **Piedras Blancas stream**.
