Ecological Restoration Project in San Pedro de la Sierra
The ecological restoration project in strategic areas of San Pedro de la Sierra, a district of Cienega Magdalena, has far exceeded expectations in its first phase of execution (2021-2024).
Since the project’s inception in 2021, we have achieved an exceptional milestone by planting over 7,500 trees in the Guandusaca and Palmichal micro-watersheds, tributaries of the Frio River. This tireless effort has resulted in the restoration of 67 hectares of vital importance to our natural environment. Furthermore, thanks to voluntary conservation agreements, an additional 105 hectares will remain in a state of passive recovery, further extending our positive impact.
This remarkable initiative has been made possible through the partnership between WWF, Uniban Foundation, Asocoomag, and Fundeban, and has received active collaboration from our valuable allies, such as the Coffee Growers Committee of Magdalena, National Natural Parks, Corpamag, and technical experts.
Dora Milena Zapata, a specialist in Governance and Intersectoral Planning at WWF Colombia and the leader of the initiative, highlights: “The ecological restoration project in San Pedro de la Sierra is an inspiring example of successful projects born from cooperation among members of the Water Stewardship Platform (PCA).”
As part of this project, we have contributed to the establishment of the community nursery “Los Nogales,” led by the Rural Women Building the Future Foundation, with unwavering support from the Rural Landscapes Corporation, the implementing entity. This nursery has become a beacon of hope by strengthening the skills of local women in species propagation, fruit, and seed management, as well as the necessary conditions for germination and plant care, among other key aspects.
The nursery has focused on propagating over 20 native species from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and has successfully produced more than 7,000 trees subsequently acquired by the project for planting in priority restoration areas. This initiative not only restores our ecosystems but also actively promotes the involvement of local communities in ecological restoration and generates sustainable employment in the region.
