Patagonia Conservation Analysis and the Sea to Sea Trail

Location: Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

Scope: Feasibility analysis and master planning

Size: 250,000 acres

Program: Residential communities, resorts, remote lodging, commercial center and trails

Description: GCH conducted a conservation feasibility analysis studying over 250,000 acres of land in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, with the goal of preserving more than 94% in perpetuity. The development area would finance the conservation and preservation goals of the project. This site comprises part of the Patagonia region and is considered one of the world’s premier trekking and ecotourism destinations.  GCH conducted a study to analyze and recommend preservation, conservation and development strategies to maintain the inherent beauty and ecosystems of the region while guiding sustainable and less invasive development.  Sensitive ecosystems, plant species, soil and tree types, wildlife and view corridors were studied as a whole to identify critical areas and patterns of preservation.  In addition, areas of local ongoing farming and sustainable forestry were analyzed for conservation as well as to promote local economic stability.  The end result is a long range strategy outlining smaller areas of condensed development that insure long range conservation and preservation while nurturing economic sustainability in the region.  A “Sea to Sea” trail route is also integrated within the overall planning study, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through Argentina and Chile.  National Geographic is currently assembling a documentary which will highlight the areas to be under conservation, Sea to Sea trail, and the process preserving this sensitive region of Patagonia, Argentina.