Desert Leaves Foundation and CEDEPAS Peru are planning on planting 13,700 native queñua trees (Polylepis spp.) to create new forests that protect water, soil, and biodiversity while empowering the local community.
Community-led action: 40 families contribute land and labor, receiving training, water tanks, solar pumps, and food kits. The new forests and infiltration ditches capture and retain water, improving irrigation for crops, maintaining pastures, and increasing food security.
Sustainable impact: CEDEPAS will continue supporting forest management after Desert Leaves exits, establishing a community-led forest committee and long-term strategies for pasture recovery, water conservation, and local livelihoods.
Environmental benefits: New habitat for endangered species, carbon sequestration (2,400–4,800 tons), soil stabilization, and improved water regulation.
This project shows how nature-based solutions can create lasting ecological, social, and economic benefits in high-Andean communities, contributing to mitigating the devastating impacts of climate change.
This project is a joint initiative by CEDEPAS Peru and the Desert Leaves Foundation, consisting mainly of planting 13,700 native queñua trees (Polylepis spp.) near the village of Curayllo, in the Arapa district in southern Peru.
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Desert Leaves is renewing its Board of Trustees and is seeking motivated individuals passionate about environmental issues and nature conservation. This voluntary role offers an opportunity to contribute to a foundation dedicated to fighting desertification and restoring arid lands. Applications are open to professionals from various sectors, with a special invitation to women to help foster a diverse and dynamic team.
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Pego Viu is celebrating its 10th anniversary on the weekend of May 10–11 in Pego, commemorating a decade since the wildfire that inspired the formation of the collective. The event will feature stalls from local groups, a talk about Pego Viu’s journey, live music, tastings, workshops, a documentary premiere, and a roundtable discussion on the future of the territory. On Sunday, participants will take a guided excursion to visit reforested areas and ongoing restoration efforts.
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We were really happy to host an event in Fuente la Reina last Friday, focusing on sustainable reforestation and land management, with 14 participants, including landowners, actively engaging in the discussion. Topics covered included biodiversity restoration, climate-smart forest management, and reforestation options, with a special thanks to the local municipality and Bar Social for their support.
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