Fundación Bosquizar was founded in 2019. However, its leaders have been supporting, since 1998, the environmental projects of other non-governmental organizations and volunteer groups in the Argentinian region of Córdoba. It works to mitigate pressing environmental challenges in the mountainous ecosystems of the Cordoba region, through the conservation of biological diversity and ecosystem restoration.
As partners of Acción Andina, Fundación Bosquizar seeks to bring back “Tabaquillo” forests, the local name for Polylepis. It is the only forest-forming tree in the mountain ranges of the Córdoba highlands. Mismanagement of the Tabaquillo forests led to their fragmentation, resulting in existing patches or islands of trees. To restore and protect fully functioning forest ecosystems, Fundación Bosquizar is managing Tabaquillo forest conservation areas, as this species and their associated vegetation reduce soil erosion. These forests also promote the presence of large amounts of ground cover, a typical trait of Polylepis species that increases water retention, boosting scarce water resources in the province of Córdoba and providing refuge for many unique species.
Ricardo, Director of the Conservation and Reforestation of the Sierras de Córdoba project, is a biologist with over two decades of experience as an ecologist and reforester. A keen mountaineer and a member of the Córdoba Andean Club, Ricardo is passionate about learning about the native forests of Argentina, including collecting specimen seeds to ensure the survival of native tree species.