Buenos Aires, Argentina – According to Administración de Parques Nacionales (APN), a significant step forward in international collaboration for conservation has been achieved with the recent agreement between Argentina and Chile to protect the shared natural heritage of Patagonia. On May 30, 2025, APN announced a binational initiative focused on the conservation of the Southern Andean Deer, known locally as huemul, a species emblematic of the Patagonian region. This agreement, signed with Chile’s National Forestry Corporation (CONAF), aims to bolster joint efforts in monitoring, research, and habitat protection across the border areas of both countries, ensuring the survival of this endangered species amid growing environmental challenges.
The huemul, a symbol of wildlife and biodiversity in the Andes, has faced severe population declines due to habitat loss, poaching, and competition with invasive species. The new accord establishes a framework for coordinated actions, including the creation of transboundary corridors to facilitate the movement of huemul populations between Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park and Chile’s Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. These protected areas, which together span over 1.5 million hectares, are critical to maintaining the ecological integrity of the region’s outdoors and natural landscapes. The initiative also includes joint patrols to combat illegal hunting and the development of community education programs to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this iconic species.
Under the agreement, both nations will share scientific data and resources to better understand the huemul’s behavior and habitat needs. This collaboration is particularly timely as climate change continues to alter the delicate balance of Patagonian ecosystems, impacting the availability of food and shelter for native species. By combining expertise and funding, Argentina and Chile aim to implement innovative conservation strategies, such as reforestation projects and the removal of invasive species that threaten the huemul’s survival. These efforts are designed to strengthen the resilience of the region’s environment and ensure that future generations can experience the beauty of Patagonia’s wilderness.
A key component of the initiative is the emphasis on sustainable tourism as a tool for conservation. Both APN and CONAF plan to promote eco-friendly tourism practices in the border parks, encouraging visitors to engage with nature responsibly while contributing to local economies. Interpretive centers will be established to educate tourists about the huemul and the broader challenges facing Patagonian habitats. This approach not only fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world but also generates funding for ongoing conservation projects. For instance, a pilot project in Los Glaciares National Park will introduce guided tours focused on huemul sightings, with proceeds directly supporting habitat restoration efforts.
Statistically, the huemul population has dwindled to fewer than 1,500 individuals across Argentina and Chile, according to recent surveys cited by APN. This alarming figure underscores the urgency of the binational effort, as the species teeters on the brink of extinction. Without immediate intervention, experts warn that the huemul could disappear from significant portions of its historical range within the next decade. The agreement also allocates a joint fund of approximately $500,000 USD for the first phase of the project, covering monitoring equipment, staff training, and community outreach over the next two years.
Beyond the huemul, this partnership sets a precedent for broader regional cooperation on sustainability and environmental protection. APN officials highlighted that the agreement could serve as a model for addressing other shared challenges, such as wildfire management and glacier preservation, which affect both nations. The collaborative spirit of this initiative reflects a growing recognition that nature knows no borders, and effective conservation requires unified action. As Patagonia faces increasing pressures from human activity and global warming, such alliances are vital to safeguarding its unique ecosystems.
This binational commitment is a beacon of hope for conservationists worldwide, demonstrating how international partnerships can address pressing environmental issues. By prioritizing the protection of the huemul and its habitat, Argentina and Chile are taking a proactive stance in preserving the natural heritage of Patagonia for the benefit of all. For more information, visit Administración de Parques Nacionales.