Estero Reñaca Designated as Urban Wetland, Securing Vital Ecosystem Protection
Valparaíso, Chile – August 12, 2025 – The Ministry of the Environment, led by Minister Maisa Rojas, has officially recognized Estero Reñaca as a new urban wetland. This significant designation, announced today, will pave the way for crucial protection measures aimed at preserving this valuable natural resource within the bustling urban landscape of the Valparaíso Region.
The recognition of Estero Reñaca as an urban wetland marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to safeguard biodiversity and ensure the sustainable management of natural environments within Chile’s increasingly developed cities. Urban wetlands, often situated in close proximity to human populations, play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems, providing essential services such as water purification, flood control, and habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Minister Rojas expressed her enthusiasm for this important milestone, stating, “The designation of Estero Reñaca as an urban wetland is a testament to our commitment to valuing and protecting the natural heritage that enriches our urban centers. This recognition will allow us to implement targeted conservation strategies, ensuring that this vital ecosystem continues to thrive and benefit both the environment and the communities that surround it.”
The process leading to this designation involved thorough scientific assessments and community engagement, underscoring the Ministry’s dedication to an inclusive and evidence-based approach to environmental protection. The protection afforded by this new status will likely encompass measures to prevent pollution, regulate development in and around the wetland, and promote its ecological restoration.
The Estero Reñaca, a significant watercourse in the Viña del Mar area, is known for its ecological importance, supporting a range of plant and animal species, including migratory birds. Its integration into the urban fabric presents unique challenges and opportunities for conservation, highlighting the importance of such designations in fostering a harmonious coexistence between human activities and natural ecosystems.
This initiative aligns with the broader national objectives of expanding the network of protected wetlands and strengthening environmental governance. By officially recognizing and protecting Estero Reñaca, the Ministry of the Environment is reinforcing its commitment to a greener and more sustainable future for the Valparaíso Region and for Chile as a whole. Further details regarding the specific protection measures and management plans for Estero Reñaca are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
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Ministerio del Medio Ambiente published ‘¡Reconocimos un nuevo humedal urbano en la Región de Valparaíso!: Ministra Rojas anuncia protección para Estero Reñaca’ at 2025-08-12 22:32. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.