Community Forest Qoricocha
The long-term mission of the Community Forest Qoricocha is to restore the 1400 hectares land of the high Andean community Qquencco by regenerating the soil’s health, enhancing the water retention capacity, all while uplifting the economy of the local community benefitting around 400 Quechua people.
We believe in resilience, not just reforestation. Your contribution helps build a holistic ecosystem of 1,400 hectares on highly eroded land through:
🤝 Fair Planting: The people are paid fairly for their “ecosystem services”—from the initial planting to the long-term protection of the forest.
💧 Water & Fire Safety: We construct water infrastructure and implement fire prevention programs to protect the landscape.
🌍 Long-term Care: We don’t just plant the trees; we invest in ongoing maintenance to guarantee the survival of every sapling
💪 Sustainable Farming: Through agroforestry, we help farmers integrate trees with local crops and animal feed, strengthening both biodiversity and food security.
Growing a mixed forest and providing water security
Mixed (Agro) Forest
The project Community Forest Qoricocha aims to plant one million trees, creating a biodiverse and sustainable forest.
50% will be native trees like Queñua, Chachacomo, Quishuar, Colle, and Mutuy. These species are vital for supporting local ecosystems, conserving the native flora and fauna.
The other 50% will be carefully selected non-native pine species (originating from Mexico/California) who are the only source for quality timber at this altitude to improve the local economy and they help to restore heavily eroded areas, stabilizing the soil and preventing further degradation. These trees will be strategically planted away from water sources.
Furthermore, we are designing this forest with integrated land-use systems in mind, such as agroforestry and silvopasture. This means the forest will be established in a way that allows agriculture and livestock to thrive alongside the trees. This approach will enhance food security, provide additional income opportunities, and create a more resilient and productive landscape.
Water structures
In the Andes of Peru, rain only falls during a short period (between November and March). Therefore, it’s very important to store this water as effectively as possible and allow it to infiltrate. To enhance the water infiltration capacity of the land, we’re using eyebrow terraces and infiltration trenches to capture rainwater, increase soil moisture, and reduce erosion on slopes. We’re also planning to start gully rehabilitation with check dams to stabilize degraded land.
We also construct water infiltration lakes and reservoirs. These will capture and store rainwater, increasing local water availability, especially during dry seasons. Infiltration lakes will slowly release water into the ground, recharging aquifers and benefiting vegetation. Also will they provide water for potential irrigation and other community needs.
These water management techniques will boost tree survival, improve watershed health, and create a more resilient and productive landscape.
Expansion of economic opportunities
Agroforestry
Agroforestry methods are used to strengthen the community’s main activities, such as livestock farming and agriculture. For example, afforestation will create year-round shelter and pasture for animals through silvopastoral systems. For agriculture, these methods provide more pleasant climates and more fertile soils, which improves production.
Ecotourism
The Community Forest Qoricocha is being developed to attract national and international tourists. Given its location just an hour from the major tourist hub of Cusco, it has significant potential to draw visitors. Currently, there’s little competition in the region, as there are no other large forests for tourists to visit. This unique positioning makes Community Forest Qoricocha an ideal destination for nature-based tourism.
(Non) Timber Products
The pine trees, with their mycorrhizal fungi and mulch, actively contribute to soil restoration. Additionally, edible mushrooms grow around the trees, which can be sold in local markets. In the longer term, the community will also be able to supply high-quality pine wood to the Cusco region.