The main characteristics of the biodiversity in this area are determined by its temperate forests, which are among the few of their kind in the world. In particular, this is a temperate evergreen forest, making it even more unique. It is home to iconic tree species such as the alerce, Guaitecas cypress, and mountain cypress, as well as various species of Nothofagus and Myrtaceae, typical of these ecosystems.

Additionally, this region is home to populations of huemul, a species that we have been studying at Puelo Patagonia since 2018. We also find other endangered species, such as the Darwin's frog, the pudú, the mountain monkey, and the Patagonian vizcacha, among others.

We know that the fire entered through an area north of Paso El León and that, fortunately, its spread has been slow due to the effective response by CONAF, which acted immediately after months of preparation. Additionally, in the higher-altitude areas, vegetation is scarcer, which could help contain the fire. According to the mayor, the fire is under control.

The forest on the Chilean side has not been mostly affected, but the situation on the Argentine side is concerning, where a fire has consumed thousands of hectares in the Nahuel Huapi National Park, a flagship area.

The loss of biodiversity in this area is alarming, as the Andes mountain range forms a single ecosystem. When the Argentine side burns, the Chilean side is also affected, as many species move across borders. Fires of this magnitude significantly alter the ecosystem dynamics of the Andean forests.

As a non-governmental organization, we actively work to lay the foundations for recovering and preserving this territory. The existence of these ecosystems demands the implementation of conservation plans, and that is precisely the goal of Conserva Puchegüín: to protect 133,000 hectares while also connecting protected areas such as Nahuel Huapi and Vicente Pérez Rosales. Conserva Puchegüín: proteger 133 mil hectáreas y, a la vez, conectar áreas protegidas como Nahuel Huapi y Vicente Pérez Rosales.

Finally, these spaces are part of the same ecosystem that deserves to be safeguarded. There are few territories that still maintain such a level of pristineness, and this is where the urgency for their long-term conservation lies.

We appreciate the efficient actions of the authorities and the concern from the Municipality of Cochamó for the residents living in the area.

We hope that the weekend rains help Cochamó, its forests, and its inhabitants.