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Ranch Rescued: From Livestock to Wild Patagonia
9 Oct
Summary
- A Chilean ranch became Patagonia National Park in 2018.
- Conservation restored grasslands and native wildlife.
- Effort protected nearly 15 million acres across Chile and Argentina.
A former Chilean livestock ranch in Valle Chacabuco, Aysén region, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a protected natural landscape. In 2004, Kris Tompkins, through her nonprofit Conservación Patagónica, acquired the property with the goal of ecological restoration. This initiative aimed to rewild the land, remove grazing pressures, and remove miles of fencing to allow wildlife to roam freely.
The extensive conservation work focused on reviving native grasslands and ensuring the recovery of diverse wildlife, including the endangered huemul deer and Andean condors. This project became a cornerstone of Patagonia National Park, officially established in 2018. The park was created by combining donated private lands with existing protected areas, ensuring long-term preservation.
This initiative is part of a much broader conservation legacy by the Tompkinses, spanning both Chile and Argentina. Their efforts have collectively safeguarded nearly 15 million acres, establishing and expanding national parks. Kris Tompkins continues this work, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and responsible tourism to support conservation goals and local economies.
