Peñaololén's Quebrada de Macul Park Management

Quebrada de Macul Park, managed by the Municipality of Santiago since 2005, represents a flagship initiative for democratizing access to nature and preserving unique ecosystems. With free entry, the park serves as an essential communal and ecological asset, attracting over 180,000 visitors annually.

The park’s management plan involved coordinated efforts among municipal authorities, local communities, and external partners. Key actions included:

• Park Management Team: A dedicated municipal team of park rangers, guards, and support staff oversees environmental monitoring, visitor management, and conservation efforts.
   
• Infrastructure Development:
  • Municipal authorities constructed and maintain 8+ km of trails, viewpoints, and educational signage.
  • Routine maintenance, including cleaning and repairs, is handled by municipal services.
     
• Conservation Initiatives:
  • The Environmental Directorate led reforestation efforts, planting 1,000+ native trees with support from universities and conservation groups.
  • Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts are coordinated with municipal and external animal welfare units.
  • Fire prevention measures include clearing dry vegetation and awareness campaigns with CONAF and firefighters.
     
• Public Engagement and Education:
  • Schools, universities, and community groups participate in hands-on environmental education programs.
  • Volunteer efforts involve trekking groups, scouts, and other institutions in conservation activities.
  • Regular community meetings and workshops encourage local engagement in park conservation.
     
• Security and Emergency Response:
  • Specialized rescue vehicles and trained personnel ensure rapid response to emergencies
  • More than 270 successful rescue operations have been conducted since 2015.
     
• Legal and Institutional Support:
  • A 99-year usufruct agreement secures the long-term protection of 180 hectares.
  • Municipal planning and external funding applications support infrastructure improvements.

The project succeeded through strong alliances with:
 

• Public Sector: Local municipal units and national entities.
• Private Sector: Collaboration with NGOs and private landowners.
• Community Groups: Involvement of communal boards, trekking groups, and scouts.

The park’s communication strategy included:
 

• Education Campaigns: An Environmental Education Program was developed in collaboration with schools, universities, and local communities, providing hands-on learning experiences in nature.
• Signage: Clear and educational materials along trails.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Public meetings, workshop and coordinated activities to rairse awarenes and foster a sense of ownership and borader public involvement in park conservation efforts.
• Collective activites: Over 191 institutions, including churches, trekking groups, and scouting organizations, participated in educational activities and volunteer initiatives

• Annual Budget: Approx. $160,000 for staffing and $55,000 for materials.
• Staffing: A team of 10 full-time park rangers, 2 night guards, 2 coordinators, and 8 seasonal staff.
• External Grants: Funding for infrastructure projects through national and regional development funds.

• Biodiversity Conservation & Climate Resilience: Reforestation, wildlife rescue, and nature-based solutions enhance climate adaptation and ecosystem restoration.
   
• Equitable Access & Social Value: The only free-entry park in the region, fostering inclusivity while preserving cultural and historical significance.
   
• Health & Well-being: Encourages outdoor recreation, promoting mental and physical health.
   
• Scientific Research & Education: A living lab for universities and researchers, supporting biodiversity studies and urban sustainability efforts.
   
• Improved Public Awareness & Infrastructure: Strengthened visitor experience, safety measures, and environmental education programs.

• Budget Constraints: Limited financial resources for large-scale projects.
• Fire Risk: Persistent challenges in mitigating wildfire risks.
• Coordination: Ensuring effective collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

The Quebrada de Macul model demonstrates that successful park management is achievable with:

• Strong public-private partnerships.
• Clear management plans and community engagement.
• Focused investment in education and infrastructure.
• It serves as a replicable framework for other cities aiming to integrate conservation with public access.

Quebrada de Macul Park exemplifies the potential for urban biodiversity conservation to coexist with inclusive public access. Its innovative approach sets a precedent for sustainable park management worldwide.

https://www.penalolen.cl/

Augusto Felipe Schweizer Rios
Environmental Projects Manager
Peñalolen Municipality
aschweizer@penalolen.cl