Community representatives being trained in the use of fire prevention materials
© IDMA
In March, six communities of the Mariño River micro-basin (Apurímac) received specialized equipment for forest fire response, within the framework of the proposed creation of the Rontoccocha Regional Conservation Area (RCA).
The specialized clothing and tools included items such as boots, firefighter's suits, protective eyewear, helmets, fire batts, forest shovels, Pulaski axes, rakes and gloves, which are of great help to mitigate forest fires, should they occur again.
This delivery is part of a joint effort being made since 2024 by the Institute for Development and Environment (IDMA) - Apurimac program, with the support of PROFONANPE and the participation of the Regional Government of Apurimac for strengthen forest fire prevention and response.
Formal delivery of firefighting equipment
During the event, the director of IDMA Apurímac, Yerssey Caballero Palomino, highlighted the importance of providing communities with adequate tools for fire prevention and response.
Xiomara Iruri Robles, ACR specialist representing the Regional Management of Natural Resources and Environmental Management (GRRNGMA), reaffirmed the Regional Government's commitment to biodiversity conservation and environmental safety.
For his part, Jaime Valenzuela Trujillo, representative of the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (SERNANP - SN Ampay), offered recommendations on the correct use and maintenance of the equipment delivered.
After his words, the equipment was verified and formally handed over, and the signing of the Act of Reception was carried out, which guarantees the commitment to the proper use and management of the material received.
The event took place at the IDMA Apurimac office, and was attended by representatives of SERNANP - SN Ampay, GRRNGMA, Empresa Prestadora de Servicios EMUSAP Abancay - MERESE and community leaders.
Urgent action to address the problem
The increase of forest fires in Apurimac, recorded between 2018 and 2020 (SERFOR, INDECI, MINAM)., evidence of the urgent need to strengthen local capacity to address the problem.
According to CENEPRED data (2022), Abancay and Andahuaylas are the provinces with the highest recurrence of fires in the last 20 years. Micaela Bastidas, Atumpata, Puruchacca, Santa Isabel de Caype, Cruzpata and Chua are some of the most affected communities.
This initiative is a strategic step in the consolidation of the Rontoccocha RCA, which seeks to protect more than 42 thousand hectares of ecosystems that are vital for biodiversity and water regulation in the region. In addition, it not only strengthens the capacity to respond to emergencies, but also to promotes a culture of prevention and sustainable land management.
Specialized fire mitigation equipment
© IDMA
Representatives of the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (SERNANP - SN Ampay), the Regional Management of Natural Resources and Environmental Management (GRRNGMA), the Service Provider Company EMUSAP Abancay - MERESE and the community leaders
© IDMA
Next steps of the project
In order to guarantee the proper safekeeping and use of the equipment, the community presidents shall submit a photographic report documenting its storage and maintenance. In addition will promote the reactivation and training of community brigades against forest fires., ensuring an efficient response to emergencies.
The equipment was left in the custody of the communal presidents, who were committed to their proper safekeeping and responsible use. This articulated work between communities and institutions strengthens local resilience and sustainable natural resource management in the headwaters of the Mariño micro-watershed.
Contact
Yerssey Caballero Palomino
IDMA Apurimac Program Director
Yasmine Rosas Damian
Project Coordinator
