News published 05 February 2025

We’ve received heartbreaking news from Patagonia, Argentina, where wildfires are devastating native Nothofagus forests. The affected area, Mallín Ahogado in El Bolsón, Río Negro, is currently battling the flames, with the botanic garden Cascada Escondida actively engaged in firefighting efforts. They’ve shared harrowing images captured from the garden itself.

So far, the fires have ravaged over 2,800 hectares, with some reports estimating damage to more than 8,000 hectares. Over 100 homes have been destroyed, and the fires remain active, particularly within the Área Natural Protegida Río Azul-Lago Escondido. A state of emergency has been declared in the region.

Please contact the garden directly via Facebook.

Our colleagues from the Red Argentina de Jardines Botánicos recommend donating directly to Asociación Civil AcercAR (Action for Strategic and Responsible Growth of the Cordillera Argentina). Founded in 2020 in the Comarca Andina del Paralelo 42, AcercAR is a multidisciplinary, volunteer-based social and environmental organization. They are currently coordinating donations to support firefighters and families impacted by the Mallín Ahogado wildfire.

How Your Donations Will Help:

1. Short-Term: Purchasing essential firefighting materials and tools, while collaborating with community stakeholders to prioritize urgent needs.
2. Mid-Term: Providing resources to help families rebuild their homes.

We stand in solidarity with our affected community during this challenging time.Thank you for any support you can offer.

Additionally, BGCI’s Disaster Recovery Fund is available to support botanical gardens during and after crises.