Biomes play a key role in the balance and sustainability of the world's ecosystem. Each biome has unique characteristics of climate, soil, flora and fauna, and all are interconnected in relationships and interactions. They are responsible for regulating the global climate, influencing patterns of precipitation, temperature and winds. They act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. In addition, they are sources of biodiversity, harboring an impressive variety of plant and animal species, many of which are still unknown to science.

These ecosystems are also sources of essential natural resources for human subsistence, such as water, food, wood and medicine. Biomes contribute to the global economy through tourism, agriculture, fisheries and other economic activities.

The degradation and destruction of biomes has negative consequences for the environment and society. Biodiversity loss, desertification, water scarcity and the increase in the frequency of extreme weather events are just some of the consequences of deforestation, unbridled urbanization and the irresponsible exploitation of natural resources.

The Pampa Biome, also known as Campos do Sul, is an extremely important biome located mainly in Rio Grande do Sul, with areas also in Argentina and Uruguay. With its extensive flat fields covered by grasses, the Pampa has a unique richness. Its name, of indigenous origin, means “flat region”.

With an area of 176,500 square kilometers, the Pampa has the region's subtropical climate and well-defined seasons, with average temperatures around 18 degrees Celsius. The Pampa is graced with a diversity of fauna and flora, including forests on the banks of the rivers. According to the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), more than three thousand plant species have already been identified in the biome, many of them endemic. In addition, there are a variety of animals, especially felines such as the Pampas Cat.

Despite its importance and biological richness, the Pampa faces significant challenges in terms of preservation. Only 3% of its area is protected by conservation units, which puts native vegetation and biodiversity at risk. Activities such as agriculture, mining, invasion of exotic species and illegal hunting threaten the ecosystem. It is essential to promote sustainable economic practices, such as adequate livestock management, respect for ecosystem limits and the implementation of environmental zoning to preserve the Pampa.

Raising awareness about the importance of the Pampa and the need for its preservation are essential to awaken collective actions in favor of this unique biome. By valuing and protecting the Pampa, we are contributing to a more balanced future, where nature and socioeconomic development walk in harmony. The Pampa, a priceless natural treasure, calls for attention and immediate action. Only through awareness and preservation is it possible to tread the path of balance between nature and progress.

Exploring the Charms of the Pampa: A Biome at Risk

The Pampa Biome, located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, is a region of great importance in the Brazilian territory, occupying approximately 2% of the country. Characterized by a rainy climate throughout the year, without dry periods, but with negative temperatures in winter, this biome exerts a significant influence on the vegetation that composes it.

With more than 3000 species of plants, including grasses and typical species of the biome, such as the Algarrobo and the Nhandavaí, and almost 500 species of birds, such as the rhea and the southern lapwing, the Pampa has a unique biodiversity. In addition, it is home to important endemic and endangered species.

Due to human activity in the region, there was a uniformity of vegetation cover, which mostly consists of natural pasture or areas destined for agriculture, with emphasis on the cultivation of rice. These agricultural and livestock activities have shaped the Pampa landscape over the years, with both positive and negative impacts.

On the one hand, the use of vegetation as natural pasture contributes to the production of meat and milk, which are important for the regional and national economy. In addition, rice cultivation plays a key role in the country's food security.

However, care must be taken to avoid degradation of the biome. The intensive use of the land, the conversion of natural areas into pastures and the inappropriate application of agricultural practices can lead to loss of biodiversity, soil erosion and compromising water resources.

Despite its importance, the Pampa has a minimal representation in the National System of Conservation Units (SNUC), with only 0.4% of the Brazilian continental area protected by conservation units. The targets established by the Convention on Biological Diversity for 2020 provided for the protection of at least 17% of the land areas of each biome, which contrasts with the reality of the Pampa.

The creation of conservation units, recovery of degraded areas and the implementation of mosaics and ecological corridors are priority actions for the conservation of the Pampa, together with inspection and environmental education. In addition, it is essential to promote economic activities with sustainable use, such as valuing livestock with native field management, diversification of rural production and regional planning.

The Pampa grasslands are one of the most important temperate grassland areas on the planet, covering about 25% of the Earth's surface. However, these ecosystems are among the least protected globally. The Pampa, with its landscape of fields interspersed with thickets of forest, riparian forests and swamps, represents a cultural heritage associated with biodiversity. In addition to their role in conserving biodiversity, Pampa grasslands play crucial roles in carbon sequestration, erosion control, and providing genetic variability for key species in the food chain.

The Pampa Biome is a region of great importance in Brazil, with a unique biodiversity and characteristic landscapes. However, human activities, such as agriculture and livestock, have negatively impacted this ecosystem, compromising its biodiversity and natural resources. It is fundamental to promote the protection and conservation of the Pampa through the creation of conservation units, recovery of degraded areas and adoption of sustainable practices. Furthermore, it is necessary to increase the representativeness of the Pampa in the National System of Conservation Units, aiming to achieve the goals established for the protection of Brazilian biomes. Pampa preservation will not only ensure the survival of endemic and endangered species, but will also contribute to maintaining environmental services and the ecological balance of this unique and precious region.

Pampa: Guardian of Diversity – Discovering the Reserves and Protected Areas of this Unique Biome

Reserves and protected areas play a crucial role in the conservation of the Pampa Biome. These areas have the main objective of preserving the biodiversity and ecosystems present in this biome, ensuring the maintenance of environmental services and ecological balance.

In the Pampa Biome, there are some conservation units, such as state parks, ecological stations and environmental protection areas. These areas aim to protect natural habitats, endangered species and promote scientific research and sustainable tourism.

The Pampa Biome conservation units are strategic for the protection of endemic species, which are exclusive to this region and are not found anywhere else in the world. In addition, these areas are also home to endangered species, such as the pampas deer and the maned wolf.

The creation of reserves and protected areas in the Pampa Biome also contributes to the conservation of water resources. The marshes, which are wetlands present in this biome, play a key role in filtering and purifying water, in addition to being important nurseries for various aquatic species.

In addition to biodiversity conservation, the reserves and protected areas of the Pampa Biome also have significant cultural value. The Pampa fields are part of the cultural and historical identity of the region, being associated with gaucho activity and traditionalism.

However, it is important to point out that the representation of protected areas in the Pampa Biome is still limited. Only a small percentage of the total area of the biome is under legal protection, which emphasizes the need to expand the creation of new conservation units and strengthen the management of existing areas.

In addition, it is essential to promote the integration of protected areas through the implementation of ecological corridors and mosaics, which allow connectivity between different fragments of habitat and facilitate the movement of species.

Reserves and protected areas play a crucial role in the conservation of the Pampa Biome, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity, ecosystems and environmental services. The expansion of these areas, integration through ecological corridors and raising awareness in society are essential measures to ensure the survival of this unique and precious biome.

In a study on new priority areas for the conservation of biodiversity in the Pampa Biome – under evaluation by the Ministry of the Environment on the possibilities of inclusion in the SNUC (National System for Nature Conservation) – there are, for example, five areas in the Middle Plateau region and Missões, four in the Campanha region and five in the Serra do Sudeste region.

The diverse physiognomies verified in the Pampa also include coastal fields, gallery forests, wetlands, butiazais, dunes and coastal lagoons, areas of scenic beauty, such as the aforementioned area of “Rincão do Inferno”, located in Lavras do Sul. In the Pampa Biome, the areas of RPPN's (Private Cultural Heritage Reserve) cover 3,169.66Km2 and represent 0.5% of the preserved area.

The State System of Conservation Units (SEUC) of Rio Grande do Sul comprises 24 state Conservation Units under public administration; ten of them are located in the Pampa Biomes:

• Delta do Jacuí State Environmental Protection Area

The Delta do Jacuí State Environmental Protection Area is a Sustainable Use Conservation Unit located in the municipalities of Porto Alegre, Canoas, Eldorado do Sul, Nova Santa Rita, Triunfo and Charqueadas, covering a total area of 22,826.39 hectares. This conservation area encompasses parts of the Pampa and Atlantic Forest biomes, giving it a great diversity of ecosystems and landscapes.

The creation of the Delta do Jacuí State Environmental Protection Area aims to guarantee the preservation and sustainable use of the natural resources present in this region. The Jacuí River delta is an area of great ecological importance, harboring a rich diversity of fauna, flora and unique ecosystems.

The diversity of habitats found in the Environmental Protection Area is remarkable. In the transition areas between the Pampa and the Atlantic Forest, we can find fields, hills, riparian forests, swamps and lakes. These environments are essential for the survival of many animal and plant species, some of which are endangered.

The region's flora is made up of species characteristic of the Atlantic Forest, such as araucaria, fig trees, cinnamon and bromeliads, as well as species adapted to the Pampa environment, such as grasses, grasses and shrubs. This plant diversity supports a rich fauna, which includes birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish. Species such as the broad-snouted alligator, the marsh deer and the tuiuiú find a suitable habitat for their survival in this area.

In addition to its environmental importance, the Delta do Jacuí State Environmental Protection Area also plays an important role in the socioeconomic context of the region. The conservation and sustainable use of natural resources provide opportunities for eco-tourism, environmental education and scientific research activities. These activities can generate economic benefits and promote local development in a sustainable way.

• Itapua State Park

Itapuã State Park is an Integral Protection Conservation Unit located in the municipality of Viamão, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. With an area of 5,566.50 hectares, this park is located in the Pampa biome, an ecosystem characteristic of the southern region of the country.

The creation of the Itapuã State Park had as its main objective to preserve and protect the biological diversity and natural resources found in this region. The Pampa is recognized for its vegetation of fields, hills and swamps, which are home to a rich variety of plant and animal species adapted to this environment.

The park's flora is made up of species typical of the Pampa, such as grasses, shrubs and trees adapted to the soil and climate conditions of that region. Among the species found, the goat's beard grass, the chicken's foot grass and the mimoso grass stand out. These plants play a key role in maintaining the ecosystem, providing food and shelter for the local fauna.

The fauna of the Itapuã State Park is diverse and includes a variety of species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Among the animals present, we can mention the pampas deer, the rhea, the nine-banded armadillo, the graxaim and several species of migratory birds. These species find in the park a preserved and favorable habitat for their survival and reproduction.

The conservation of the Itapuã State Park is essential for the preservation of these species and for the maintenance of the ecological processes of the Pampa biome. However, the Pampa faces significant challenges, such as agricultural expansion, habitat fragmentation and the introduction of exotic species. For this reason, park management involves protection measures, inspection and constant monitoring of biodiversity.

In addition, the Itapuã State Park plays an important role in environmental education and ecological tourism. The park offers ecological trails, bird watching activities and other opportunities for contact with nature, providing visitors with an immersion experience in the richness and beauty of the Pampa biome. These activities contribute to raising awareness about the importance of conservation and the sustainable development of the region.

• Delta do Jacuí State Park

The Delta do Jacuí State Park is an Integral Protection Conservation Unit located in the Atlantic Forest and Pampa biomes, covering a total area of 14,242 hectares in the municipalities of Porto Alegre, Canoas, Eldorado do Sul, Nova Santa Rita, Triunfo and Charqueadas, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

This important protected area aims to preserve and conserve the ecosystems present in the Jacuí river delta, where the transition between the Atlantic Forest and the Pampa occurs. This region is recognized for its richness in biodiversity and for harboring a variety of habitats, such as swamps, river islands, riparian forests and natural grasslands.

In Delta do Jacuí State Park, it is possible to find a diversity of plant and animal species, representative of the present biomes. In the portion of the Atlantic Forest, there are tall trees, such as the white fig tree, the canjerana and the jacarandá-da-bahia. In the Pampa, grasses and herbs predominate, adapted to the soil and climate conditions characteristic of this region.

The park's fauna is also abundant and includes species characteristic of both biomes. Among the animals present, there are birds such as the great white heron, the socó-boi, the hawk-carijó and the joão-de-arro, in addition to mammals such as the pampas deer, the graxaim-do-campo and the raccoon. These species find a safe refuge in the Delta do Jacuí State Park to reproduce and feed.

In addition to its importance for the preservation of biodiversity, the Delta do Jacuí State Park also plays a fundamental role in the protection of water resources. The Jacuí river delta is a region of great hydrological importance, serving as a natural filter for the water that reaches the Guaíba estuary. This contributes to the maintenance of water quality and the health of the aquatic ecosystems in the region.

Delta do Jacuí State Park offers opportunities for ecotourism and environmental education, with trails, lookouts and nature observation activities. Visitors have the chance to experience the beauty and diversity of this unique natural environment, while learning about the importance of conserving and preserving natural resources.

However, the region faces challenges such as irregular occupation, pollution and pressures arising from urban development.

• Camaquã State Park

Camaquã State Park is a Full Protection Conservation Unit, covering an area of 7,992.50 hectares. Located in the Pampa and Atlantic Forest biomes, the park is located in the municipalities of Camaquã and São Lourenço do Sul, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

The main purpose of Camaquã State Park is to preserve the ecosystems present in the region, ensuring the conservation of biodiversity and natural resources found there. Its location in transition areas between the Pampa and Atlantic Forest biomes gives the park a great diversity of landscapes, fauna and flora.

In Camaquã State Park, it is possible to find a rich variety of habitats, including fields, forests, swamps and watercourses. This diversity provides a home for a wide range of species, including endangered animals and plants.

In addition to its ecological importance, the park also plays a crucial role in protecting the region's water resources, as it is home to springs and watercourses that are essential for maintaining local ecosystems and supplying water to neighboring communities.

To ensure the preservation of the Camaquã State Park, restrictions and rules are established for visitation and activities within its limits, in order to minimize environmental impacts. In addition, continuous work is carried out to monitor and manage the ecosystems present in the park, in order to promote their long-term conservation.

Camaquã State Park offers opportunities for ecotourism and contact with nature, through trails and activities to observe fauna and flora. These activities are carried out in a conscious and responsible manner, with a view to preserving the natural environment.

• Espinilho State Park

The Espinilho State Park is a Full Protection Conservation Unit, covering an area of 1,617.14 hectares. Located in the Pampa biome, specifically in the municipality of Barra do Quaraí, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

The main purpose of Espinilho State Park is to preserve the region's natural ecosystems, ensuring the conservation of biodiversity and natural resources present there. The park area is characterized by its ecological relevance, being an important refuge for the typical fauna and flora of the Pampa biome.

The park has a variety of habitats, including native grasslands, riparian forests and wetlands. This diversity of environments contributes to the presence of a rich fauna and flora, with species adapted to the specific conditions of the Pampa.

Among the species found in the Espinilho State Park, there are birds such as the Partridge, the Blue Jay and the Woodpecker, as well as mammals such as the Pampas deer and the Nine-banded armadillo. These species play important roles in local ecosystems, contributing to the region's ecological balance.

In addition to its environmental relevance, Espinilho State Park also has historical and cultural value. The area is home to the Guarani Jesuit Missions Foundation Mark, which dates back to the 18th century, and is a testament to the indigenous presence in the region.

Visitation to the park is allowed, offering opportunities for the practice of ecotourism activities, such as trails and observation of fauna and flora. However, it is important to respect established rules and restrictions to minimize environmental impacts.

The management of the Espinilho State Park includes carrying out scientific research, monitoring ecosystems and environmental education actions, aimed at promoting awareness about the importance of conserving biodiversity and the cultural heritage present in the protected area.

• Podocarpus State Park

The Podocarpus State Park is a Full Protection Conservation Unit, covering an area of 3,645 hectares. Located in the Pampa biome, in the municipality of Encruzilhada do Sul, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

The main objective of the Podocarpus State Park is to preserve the natural ecosystems present in the region, ensuring the conservation of biodiversity and the natural resources found there. The park area is characterized by its unique features, representative of the Pampa biome.

The park is home to a variety of habitats, including native grasslands, riparian forests, swamps and small mountains. This diversity of environments contributes to the presence of a rich fauna and flora, with species adapted to the specific conditions of the Pampa.

Among the species found in the Podocarpus State Park, there are birds such as the Blue Jay, the Blackbird and the Tico-Tico, as well as mammals such as the Pampas deer and the Opossum. These species play important roles in local ecosystems, contributing to the region's ecological balance.

In addition to its ecological importance, the Podocarpus State Park has cultural and historical value. The area is home to archaeological sites, where traces of human occupation dating back thousands of years have been found. These sites bear witness to the region's ancestral past and the relationship between indigenous communities and the natural environment.

Visiting the park is allowed, providing opportunities for trails, observation of fauna and flora, and environmental education activities. It is important to follow established guidelines and restrictions to minimize impacts on ecosystems.

The management of the Podocarpus State Park involves monitoring actions, scientific research and environmental education. These activities aim to promote awareness about the importance of conserving biodiversity and the cultural heritage present in the protected area.

• Banhado do Maçarico Wildlife Refuge

The Refúgio de Vida Silvestre Banhado do Maçarico is a Full Protection Conservation Unit, with an area of 6,253 hectares, located in the municipality of Rio Grande, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

This protected area is specially designated for the preservation of wetland ecosystems, which are wetlands of great ecological importance. Wetlands play a crucial role in the hydrological cycle, climate regulation and maintenance of biodiversity.

The Refuge is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora species, many of which are adapted to humid and aquatic environments. Among the species of birds found in the Banhado do Maçarico, the Red-throated Sandpiper, the Brown Teal and the Great Egret stand out. In addition, the refuge is home to species of fish, reptiles, amphibians and mammals that depend on this unique habitat.

The conservation of this refuge is extremely important, as the Banhado do Maçarico faces threats, such as the drainage of wetlands for agricultural use, disorderly urbanization and the pollution of water bodies. These activities pose a direct threat to biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by the wetland.

In addition to its ecological relevance, the Banhado do Maçarico Wild Life Refuge also has cultural and recreational importance. The area is used for environmental education activities, scientific research and ecological tourism. Controlled and conscious visitation allows visitors to discover and appreciate the beauty and importance of this unique ecosystem.

• Banhado dos Pachecos Wildlife Refuge

The Wildlife Refuge Banhado dos Pachecos is a Full Protection Conservation Unit, covering an area of 2,560 hectares, located in the municipality of Viamão, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. This refuge was created with the aim of preserving and protecting an important wetland ecosystem located in the Pampa biome.

Marshes are wetlands of great ecological importance, playing vital roles in regulating the hydrological cycle, maintaining water quality and providing habitat for a diversity of species of fauna and flora. Banhado dos Pachecos is recognized for its biological richness and its importance as a refuge for several species.

With regard to fauna, the refuge is home to a variety of species adapted to humid environments, including birds such as the Eurasian Socó, Eurasian Sandpiper and Eurasian Eurasian Hawk. It is also possible to find reptiles, amphibians, fish and mammals, all playing important roles in the dynamics of the ecosystem.

The conservation of Banhado dos Pachecos is fundamental to guarantee the survival of these species and the maintenance of the ecological balance. However, the area faces significant challenges such as drainage for agricultural purposes, urban sprawl and water pollution. These activities pose direct threats to biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by the swamp.

Refuge management involves the implementation of protection measures and proper management, including conducting scientific research, monitoring biodiversity and raising awareness of the local community about the importance of conservation. In addition, rules and restrictions are established for visitation, ensuring the minimization of negative impacts on the natural environment.

In addition to its environmental value, the Banhado dos Pachecos Wildlife Refuge also has cultural and recreational importance. The area is used for environmental education activities, scientific research and ecological tourism, allowing visitors to discover and appreciate the beauty of this unique ecosystem.

• Ibirapuitã Biological Reserve

The Ibirapuitã Biological Reserve is a Full Protection Conservation Unit located in the municipality of Alegrete, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. With an area of 351.42 hectares, this reserve covers a portion of the Pampa biome, one of the most characteristic and important ecosystems in the south of the country.

The creation of the Ibirapuitã Biological Reserve had as main objective to preserve and protect the rich biodiversity found in this region.

The reserve's flora is made up of a diversity of plant species, including grasses, shrubs and trees typical of the Pampa. Among the species found, the goat's beard grass, the chicken's foot grass and the mimoso grass stand out. These plants play a fundamental role in the structure and functioning of the ecosystem, providing food and shelter for the local fauna.

Regarding fauna, the Ibirapuitã Biological Reserve is home to a variety of species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Among the animals present, we can mention the pampas deer, the rhea, the nine-banded armadillo and the prairie fox. These species are adapted to the conditions of the Pampa and play important roles in maintaining the ecological balance.

The conservation of the Ibirapuitã Biological Reserve is fundamental for the preservation of these species and for the maintenance of the ecological processes of the Pampa biome. However, like other ecosystems, the Pampa faces significant challenges, such as the advance of agriculture, habitat fragmentation and the introduction of exotic species.

The management of the reserve involves the implementation of protection measures and adequate management, including enforcement against illegal hunting and fishing, carrying out scientific research and monitoring biodiversity. In addition, environmental education activities are promoted and the local community is made aware of the importance of conservation.

The Ibirapuitã Biological Reserve also has recreational and educational value, allowing visitors to discover and appreciate the beauty of this preserved natural environment.

• São Donato Biological Reserve

The São Donato Biological Reserve is a Full Protection Conservation Unit located in the municipalities of Itaqui and Maçambará, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. With an extension of 4,392 hectares, this reserve covers a significant part of the Pampa biome, characteristic of the southern region of the country.

The creation of the São Donato Biological Reserve has as main objective to preserve and protect the rich biodiversity found in this area. The Pampa biome is known for its vegetation of fields and hills, which are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species adapted to the conditions of this unique environment.

The reserve's flora is made up of a diversity of species native to the Pampa, including grasses, herbs, shrubs and trees. These plants play a key role in sustaining the ecosystem, providing food, shelter and other essential resources for the local fauna.

The fauna of the São Donato Biological Reserve is equally diverse and includes a variety of species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Among the animals present, we can mention the pampas deer, the nine-banded armadillo, the rhea, the partridge, the wild fox and several species of migratory birds. These species find in the preserved areas of the reserve adequate conditions for their survival and reproduction.

The conservation of the São Donato Biological Reserve is essential for the preservation of these species and for the maintenance of the ecological processes of the Pampa biome. However, as in other places, the Pampa faces threats, such as the advance of agriculture, habitat fragmentation and the introduction of exotic species, which further reinforces the importance of this protected area.

The management of the reserve includes the implementation of protection measures, such as inspection against illegal activities, such as predatory hunting and fishing, in addition to the constant monitoring of biodiversity. Scientific research also plays a fundamental role, allowing the advancement of knowledge about the flora and fauna of the Pampa, as well as the understanding of the impacts of human activities on this ecosystem.

In addition, the São Donato Biological Reserve promotes environmental education activities, making the local community and visitors aware of the importance of conserving the Pampa and preserving biodiversity. These activities include interpretive trails, lectures, courses and other initiatives that encourage respect and appreciation of the natural environment.

Pampa Trail: Promoting Sustainable Tourism and Biome Conservation

Sustainable economic development and conservation of the Pampa Biome find new ways through sustainable rural tourism. The implementation of the first stage of the Caminho do Pampa long-distance trail in the Environmental Protection Area (APA) of Ibirapuitã, in Rio Grande do Sul, is progressing significantly and promisingly.

The Pró-APA Sustentável project team is committed to consolidating the 84 km of the first stage, out of the total 170 km mapped within the conservation unit. This step involves signaling routes and installing support sites on rural properties.

Michael Carroll, technical director of SAVE Brasil at Alianza del Pastizal and Pró-APA Sustentável, reports that 30 landowners were identified who could support visitors who walk the trail. So far, 14 of these owners have already signed the initiative's adhesion term, and it is expected that the others will do the same soon.

In May 2022, awareness was raised in the municipality of Alegrete (RS) about the implementation of the northern section of the trail, and in December the first section was inaugurated in Santana do Livramento (RS). In addition to these two municipalities in Rio Grande do Sul, the Caminho do Pampa will also pass through Quaraí (RS) and Rosário do Sul (RS).

In recent years, the Pampa Biome has faced several threats, such as the intensive use of land for agriculture, the invasion of exotic species, forestation with pine and eucalyptus, the inadequate use of pesticides and overgrazing, which occurs when native pasture is intensively exploited without proper vegetation recovery. These threats also affect the APA of Ibirapuitã, even with the ban on converting the native field into crops since 2008.

One of the factors that has driven the expansion of soybean farming in the Pampa is climate change, which has led to an increase in rainfall in the region. Despite this, historically the Pampa Biome was known for its vast pastures, being one of the few places on the planet where it is possible to produce animal protein allied to conservation.

Although the region has a natural inclination to practice livestock in a sustainable way, which is beneficial for the maintenance of native fields, there is the challenge of generating income for rural producers. In this sense, sustainable rural tourism emerges as a viable alternative.

In addition to the Caminho do Pampa trail, the Pró-APA Sustentável project is also committed to the recovery of degraded areas in the Ibirapuitã APA.

The Environmental Protection Area (APA) of Ibirapuitã, located in Rio Grande do Sul, was created in 1992 with the aim of preserving a significant portion of the Pampa Biome. With 316.8 thousand hectares distributed in four municipalities in Rio Grande do Sul, the APA is home to Caminho do Pampa, a long trail that runs through the region.

The APA of Ibirapuitã has tourist attractions and outstanding characteristics, such as well-preserved natural landscapes, architectural and historical heritage, exuberant animals, such as the rheas that inhabit the fields, and peculiar cultural traits, including the local gastronomy, the typical border language and the traditional figure of the gaucho mounted on a horse.

Since 2020, the Pró-APA Sustentável project has been developing recovery plans for degraded areas within the Ibirapuitã APA. The project works to control invasive species on 63 rural properties, with the aim of recovering 1,500 hectares of degraded areas or areas severely infested by annoni grass through the Integrated Pasture Recovery Method (Mirapasto), developed by Embrapa. In addition, the project works to reduce the wild boar population through an exotic fauna management program in Santana do Livramento.

Caminho do Pampa is part of the Brazilian Network of Long Distance Trails and its second stage will connect Passo do Mineiro to Catimbau, towards Alegrete (South-North). Also being evaluated is the possibility of connection with the Natural Reserve Del Valle Del Lunarejo, in Uruguay, which is recognized as a natural heritage by UNESCO and an international tourist destination. The forecast is that this connection will take place in 2024, transforming the Caminho do Pampa into a regional, national and international integration mechanism.

One of the objectives of the project is to leave behind an association of residents engaged in the maintenance of the trail and in the development of sustainable rural tourism activities. It is believed that the trail can contribute to making people aware of the immense biodiversity of the Pampa Biome and the importance of its conservation. Caminho do Pampa was conceived by the Management Council of the APA of Ibirapuitã (CONAPA) and by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) and has the support of several strategic partners, including CONAPA institutions, ranchers, quilombolas, academic institutions and non-governmental organizations, in addition to the Brazilian Army.

The development of sustainable rural tourism and the conservation of the Pampa Biome are fundamental to guarantee the protection of the environment, the generation of income for rural producers and the preservation of local culture and biodiversity. Caminho do Pampa is an initiative that demonstrates the importance of joining efforts in favor of sustainable economic development and environmental conservation.

Under this premise, the Oakpar Foundation develops the Biomes do Brasil Program, whose mission is to combat climate change and its impacts, promoting the preservation of the environment and mitigating the effects of global warming caused by human actions.

Its main objective is to disseminate the ecological, genetic, social, economic, scientific, educational, cultural, recreational and aesthetic values of biodiversity, promoting the conservation of the remaining natural resources and areas of great importance to humanity.

It seeks to reinforce resilience and adaptability to climate risks and natural disasters, in addition to promoting socio-environmental awareness and the defense and conservation of natural resources threatened by activities such as real estate speculation, fires, mineral extraction and predatory exploitation of fauna and flora.

Get to know the Biomes do Brasil Program: Click here

The Biomas do Brasil Program will be implemented in preserved and/or impacted areas, with biological relevance and natural landscape value, in the six Brazilian biomes: Amazon Forest, Atlantic Forest, Cerrado, Pantanal, Pampa and Caatinga. Its focus is on creating and maintaining full protection and sustainable use conservation units, especially environmental parks in the form of Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs). These areas will have improvements and structures for conservation and public visitation, such as botanical spaces with handcrafted items and seedlings of Brazilian flora species, and arboretums with nurseries, orchid gardens, herbaria, butterfly gardens, trees, shrubs and ornamental, medicinal, edible and herbaceous plants. . Therefore, preserving Brazil's biomes is to protect the essence of life in all its forms, ensuring a sustainable future for present and future generations.