Carpish, the First Regional Conservation Area in Huánuco (Peru), Conserves 124,934 Acres

Andes Amazon Fund (AAF) began the year celebrating the creation of Carpish, the first Regional Conservation Area to be established in Huánuco, Peru. Protecting 124,934 acres (50,559 ha) of cloud forest and high-elevation grasslands in the central Andes, Carpish contains a high level of endemism, or flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. This includes the collard inca and brown-flanked Tanager, both of which contribute to the area’s designation as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).

A number of vulnerable and endangered species also found within Carpish, such as the spectacled bear and yellow-tailed woolly monkey, depend on these intact landscapes for their survival. By safeguarding Carpish and its biodiversity, the region of Huánuco has ensured a more sustainable future for all of those who call it home.  

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“We have to care for our Carpish forest, a place known internationally for its natural richness, its beauty, and birds,” said Elmer Manzanedo Espinoza, President of the Advocacy Committee for the creation of Carpish.

Surrounding communities will benefit directly from the creation of this new Regional Conservation Area. Carpish has great potential to boost the regional economy through ecotourism. Visitors can participate in a variety of activities, like hiking and birdwatching, which will, in turn, provide new jobs for local people. At the same time, Carpish will sustain ongoing economic activities in the region by protecting the water supply.  

“The first regional protected area in Huánuco’s history is a major step to assure a sustainable development agenda for the region,” said Enrique Ortiz, AAF’s Senior Program Director.

AAF applauds the leadership of the Huánuco Regional Government, Peruvian Ministry of Environment, Peruvian Protected Area Service (SERNANP), and local people – all of whom made the establishment of this area a reality.  We also thank Nature and Culture International for facilitating the on-the-ground work needed to create Carpish and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund for providing financial support for this work along with AAF.

“This is an outstanding result of partnerships at local, regional, and international levels to protect a place of critical importance for the survival of threatened species and for the wellbeing of surrounding communities,” said AAF’s Executive Director, Megan MacDowell.