Porto Alegre, Brazil, is enhancing its environmental protection efforts through a R$1.55 million contract aimed at conserving four vital natural areas. The investment will support comprehensive management of flora and fauna, environmental monitoring, and the restoration of degraded sections within Morro do Osso Natural Park, Saint'Hilaire Natural Park, Lami José Lutzenberger Biological Reserve, and São Pedro Wildlife Refuge.
The 12-month contract has been awarded to Athena Construção e Paisagismo Ltda. The company's mission includes revitalizing and integrating society with the environment. The project's scope involves controlling invasive plant species, protecting native grasslands, and conducting detailed wildlife surveys, with a specific focus on identifying and safeguarding endemic and endangered species. These actions are considered essential for maintaining the ecological balance within these conservation units.
Further initiatives will include monitoring water quality, implementing responsible waste management along natural trails, and maintaining internal park roads to ensure accessibility while minimizing environmental impact. The program also emphasizes community engagement through educational initiatives designed to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of these natural resources. Detailed reports will be generated to assist the municipal environmental department's ongoing management strategies.
These protected areas are classified as Integral Protection zones, reflecting a commitment to preserving nature with minimal human intervention. Recent improvements already implemented include new fencing at the São Pedro Refuge, facility upgrades at the Lami Reserve, and renovations at the Morro do Osso Park headquarters. Preparatory work has also begun for a new headquarters at Saint-Hilaire Natural Park, indicating a forward-looking approach to conservation.
The Lami José Lutzenberger Biological Reserve, established in 1975, covers 179.78 hectares and is a significant part of the Pampa biome, known for its diverse flora, including rare species like Ephedra tweediana, and as a habitat for fauna such as capybaras and broad-snouted caimans. Morro do Osso Natural Park, spanning 220 hectares, is recognized for its rich biodiversity and remnants of the Atlantic Forest, serving as a crucial biological refuge within Porto Alegre. The park is home to approximately 60% of Porto Alegre's avian fauna, including rare species.
This substantial investment by Porto Alegre underscores a proactive stance on environmental management, reinforcing the city's dedication to preserving its rich biodiversity and natural heritage for future generations. The initiative by Athena Construção e Paisagismo Ltda aligns with a broader vision for creating a sustainable urban environment that coexists harmoniously with nature.