How can the Cauca Valley gain one million more trees? Provide the land and the CVC will deliver the giants: this is the process

The Regional Autonomous Corporation of Valle del Cauca (CVC) reported that after exceeding the goal of planting eight million trees between 2020 and 2023, a new objective was set: to plant one million more in 2025 alone.

But to achieve this, the commitment of all Valle del Cauca residents is required, where, according to the entity's general director, Marco Antonio Suárez, it is a 'Everyone contributes'.

“We have already planted 428,000 trees so far this year, but we need to reach one million. We have the plant material, our nurseries are full, but we need land to plant them on,” Suárez stated.

He added that he is inviting landowners with properties suitable for reforestation—especially those with water sources or vulnerable ecosystems—to join the campaign. The official said the corporation is responsible for bringing in native species appropriate for each area and providing technical support.

The selection of species to plant is based on ecological criteria such as altitude and ecosystem characteristics. From frailejones in high mountain areas to guayacanes in urban areas, each species fulfills a specific function in environmental restoration.

In addition to the trees, the CVC will provide technical support for the plantings and plans to deliver new trees if necessary to replace those that do not adapt, or to compensate for natural mortality, which ranges between 15 and 20%.

He noted that there will be what is called 'The Seed Meter', which can be consulted at vallemasverde.com and which allows monitoring each planting and ensuring its positive impact on the ecosystem.

Educational institutions, private companies, environmental organizations, and law enforcement have already joined as strategic allies. Furthermore, the landowner is actively involved in the conservation process.

According to the CVC's general director, the "Greener Valley" strategy, focused on reforestation and ecological restoration, aims to transform the department's landscape and strengthen the environmental awareness of its inhabitants. It is also integrated with other initiatives such as the creation of protected areas, forest governance, and the promotion of best environmental practices. Thanks to these efforts, Valle del Cauca does not appear in IDEAM's deforestation indicators, reflecting the success of its environmental management.

“Let’s plant a tree. It’s the best contribution we can make to protect our department and guarantee a sustainable future for the next generations,” the official stated.

Those interested in donating land or participating in the campaign can contact the CVC through its official channels or write to [email protected] and make their formal request for tree donation.

EL TIEMPO Correspondent