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El Cajas Wildfire 6

El CajasWildfire

In November 2024, the southern region of Ecuador, particularly El Cajas National Park and its surrounding areas, suffered a series of devastating wildfires. Some were caused by human activity, while others resulted from a prolonged drought and the escalating climate crisis.

Over 14 grueling days, these fires ravaged a significant portion of the paramos (high-altitude grasslands) and its wildlife. These paramos are crucial as they serve as the primary source of clean water and air for the population of Cuenca.

At Andes Hikes, we are deeply committed to preserving the natural beauty of our home town. In light of the devastating wildfires affecting our environment, we have organized a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for those impacted and to support reforestation efforts. Our mission is to protect the breathtaking landscapes that inspire our hikes, and we believe it is our responsibility to give back to the land that sustains us.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Report on Fund Allocation for El Cajas National Park Wildfire Recovery

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Goals:

  1. Support the community and private organizations with tools to combat fires.

  2. Provide assistance for the reforestation of affected areas.

Allocation of Your Donations

Thanks to your generosity, we have supported the following organizations and efforts:

Fundación Amaru
A trusted organization dedicated to protecting nature and endemic species in our mountains and country. They are actively involved in safeguarding the Quitahuayco forest, home to many unique birds and wildlife. Your donations have contributed to their efforts and in the future for the reforestation and beyond. Helicopter fuel for emergency responses.​

 

Monodedo
A recognized brand and leader in the outdoor community. They mobilized individuals of all ages to create fire swatters and were on the frontlines daily, working to mitigate the fires. Support for their tools and resources.

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Local Community


Hikers, mountaineers, guides, and nature lovers who selflessly woke up early and hiked to steep, challenging terrains to fight the fires with their own hands. Transportation costs for volunteers.

Next Steps

​With the remaining funds we have secured, we plan to contribute:

33%: Professional Biologists

Focused on restoring the paramos and ensuring the recovery of this unique ecosystem.

33%: Fundación Amaru

Continued reforestation efforts in Quitahuayco and additional initiatives to protect its wildlife.

33%: Remote Communities

Support for local communities with food and basic necessities to aid in their recovery efforts.

 

Gratitude for Your Support

First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this cause. Your donations have made a tangible difference, equipping local communities and private organizations with essential tools to combat the devastating wildfires. Your generosity has empowered young leaders and volunteers to protect our cherished El Cajas National Park with their own hands.

While the challenges are immense, we remain steadfast in our commitment to restore this vital ecosystem. Together, we continue to have hope and will tirelessly work to rehabilitate the park.

In this poignant image, the charred remnants of a forest in Jerez, Azuay province, reveal story of destruction. Once thriving in western Andes of southern Ecuador, this unique woodland now stands as a haunting reminder of nature's fragility and the urgent for conservation efforts.

Cascada de Jerez

"Cascada de Jerez" near the site of the fire.

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Helicopter and fireman

Helicopter and Fireman in the Quitahuayco Reserve property of Fundación Amaru, place of one of the wildfires in Azuay.

Wildfire Volunteers Group 2
Wildfire Volunteers Group
Wildfire Volunteers 3
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