Colombia establishes Los Farallones protected area to safeguard biodiversity

The Colombian Ministry of Environment designated a new Integrated Regional Management District called Los Farallones in the eastern part of Cundinamarca.

This new protected area covers 23,776 hectares across the municipalities of Gachalá, Medina, and Ubalá. The designation follows approval by Corpoguavio to protect Andean and high-Andean forests. The region serves as a vital habitat for 39 endemic species and 45 species protected by CITES.

It also functions as an ecological corridor connected to the Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza and the Cuchillas Negra and Guanaque districts. Research indicates that dense forest covers approximately 78% of the surface, which helps mitigate the country's ongoing deforestation issues. The protected area protects the headwaters of the Guavio, Humea, and Guacavía rivers. These rivers provide water for more than 1,340 local residents and contribute to a reservoir used for electricity generation.

Minister Fabio Arjona stated that the district allows for sustainable land use and community participation. The ministry plans to promote economic alternatives such as sustainable tourism, scientific research, and payments for environmental services.