In a world where concern about climate change is on the rise, it is essential for companies to play an active role in the protection and conservation of our natural resources. In this regard, Bosques Amazónicos (BAM) stands out for its commitment to research and conservation of nature in our Amazon. In this article, we will explore in detail BAM’s Science Program and how it is contributing to the well-being of forests and their inhabitants.
The program is led by forest engineer Walter H. Wust, director of BAM, and is developed in collaboration with nationally and internationally renowned scientific organizations such as the Center for Ornithology and Biodiversity (CORBIDI), the San Diego Zoo, the Herbarium of the National Agrarian University La Molina, the Natural History Museum Javier Prado of the National University of San Marcos, and Perú Verde.
Flora and wildlife: constant monitoring for conservation
BAM has taken on the responsibility of constantly monitoring the health of Amazonian forests. This involves meticulous monitoring of flora and wildlife, as well as water sources in key areas such as the Madre de Dios and Ucayali regions. This ongoing monitoring is essential for understanding the evolution of ecosystems and taking proactive measures for their conservation and recovery.
Key tool for monitoring: camera traps
Camera traps play an essential role in wildlife research and conservation in natural areas by providing valuable data on the presence of rare wildlife species and insights into their behavior, contributing to ecosystem protection.
In BAM’s Science Program, camera traps are used for various purposes, including:
- Wildlife research: Camera traps are essential tools for studying wildlife in their natural environment. They capture images and videos of animals discreetly and non-invasively, allowing scientists and conservationists to observe the behavior, distribution, and abundance of species.
- Endangered species monitoring: In natural areas where endangered species reside, camera traps are crucial for documenting their presence and supporting conservation efforts. These cameras can confirm the existence of rare species and provide valuable data for their protection.
- Ecological studies: Camera traps help ecologists understand the interactions between different species and their relationship with the environment. This includes observing how animals feed, reproduce, and use their habitat.
- Population assessment: Using camera traps, it is possible to estimate the population density of animals in a specific area. This is crucial for population management, especially in protected natural areas and private conservation areas.
- Nighttime activity detection: Many animals are nocturnal and difficult to observe directly. Camera traps can be equipped with infrared sensors, allowing them to capture images of animals during the night, providing a comprehensive view of their activity.
“Camera traps revolutionized our knowledge of wildlife; they allow us to discover their secrets without disturbing the species, providing us with stunning images and key elements for the conservation of vital creatures for the ecosystem but rarely seen by humans.” – comments Walter Wust, director and leader of the BAM Science Program.
Discovering, understanding, and protecting biodiversity
The main goal of BAM’s Science Program is to discover, understand, and protect the rich biodiversity of the areas under its care. This includes both private properties and areas managed by chestnut and forestry concessionaires. BAM’s research has a multifaceted approach, ranging from assessing the conservation status to identifying endangered species.
The activities carried out in the area can be divided into three fundamental objectives, all aimed at protecting the ecosystems in our areas of influence:
1.Assessing conservation status: The program begins by assessing the conservation status of forests on private properties and concessions. This provides a clear picture of the health of these ecosystems. Biodiversity inventories identify endangered or threatened species, allowing for immediate measures to protect them.
2. Identifying new species: BAM’s research has also led to the discovery of new species for science. This highlights the critical importance of such research and underscores the need to continue documenting and studying the biodiversity of Amazonian forests. As part of the program, an ecological characterization of all natural communities in the properties is conducted, including primary and secondary forests, floodplains, and intervened areas. This will help refine the studies conducted in the area to improve conservation practices and sustainable processes.
3. Restoration, conservation, and utilization: The most valuable natural environments in the area are restored as much as possible with the aim of facilitating the return of wildlife and encouraging natural processes such as pollination, ecosystem balance restoration, ecotourism, and more. This helps determine how forest resources can be used sustainably. In addition, the treatment of resources by Brazil-nut concessionaires and forestry concessionaires is improved, benefiting both nature and local communities.
The vital role of the local community
One of the cornerstones of the program is the active participation of local communities in the protection and sustainable use of forests. Walter H. Wust emphasizes that involving the local population is essential to strengthen surveillance and ensure that these valuable resources are used sustainably.
“Local populations know better than anyone that the conservation of nature is not a luxury but a necessity. Proper forest management should allow nature to provide its ecosystem services and, above all, improve the quality of life of its inhabitants.” – says Walter Wust, director and leader of the BAM Science Program.
Collaboration with prestigious organizations
It is important to highlight that BAM’s commitment goes beyond its own operations. It collaborates closely with renowned organizations such as CORBIDI, the Natural History Museum of the National University of San Marcos, the Herbarium of the National Agrarian University – La Molina, and the San Diego Zoo. This collaboration further strengthens conservation efforts.
Global awareness of amazonian biodiversity
Ultimately, BAM hopes that its work will generate greater awareness at the national and international levels about the importance of biodiversity in Amazonian forests. These ecosystems are not only vital for environmental balance but also a fundamental resource for future generations.
In summary, BAM’s comprehensive approach, active involvement of local communities, and collaboration with prestigious scientific organizations are key aspects driving the Science Program to a new dimension. By contributing to the knowledge and protection of these ecosystems, BAM plays an essential role in the conservation of Amazonian ecosystems and the improvement of the quality of life of the populations that inhabit them.
More about BAM
In the protected areas under our REDD+ The Last Habitat project in Campo Verde, Ucayali, more than 20,000 hectares of forests and their extraordinary biodiversity are protected. Additionally, within these areas, a new species for science was discovered, “Scinax pyroinguinis,” also known as the “groins of fire frog.”
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