Conservation of 3 threatened Magnolia species in Colombia

Recovery of the populations of 3 threatened Magnolia species (Magnolia guatapensis, M. polyhypsophylla and M. yarumalensis) in the “Alto de Ventanas” region

Partners: SalvaMontes Colombia Corporation and South Pole Foundation
Years: 2021-2024

The main aim of this project is to improve the status of the local populations of 3 threatened Magnolia species (Magnolia guatapensis, M. polyhypsophylla and M. yarumalensis) through more effective monitoring and conservation strategies, reinforcement of existing populations, establishment of a Magnolia propagation and restoration program involving members of the local communities and outreach activities.

This project aims to help population recovery of 3 threatened Magnolia species (Magnolia guatapensis, M. polyhypsophylla and M. yarumalensis) through various conservation actions including (1) populations baseline assessment with ecological and phenological data and a monitoring plan for more effective management of these populations, (2) a propagation and reinforcement program involving forest rangers and people from the local community, (3) improving degraded habitat patches through reforestation, (4) expanding the areas of protected habitat and (5) engaging local people in conservation through education and awareness raising campaigns.

Furthermore, this project will facilitate the outreach to the international community and catalyse conservation actions for these species with the publication of project results in international journals, updates of species Red List assessments and through the designation of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), complemented with the publication of a national action plan for the conservation of Magnolia species in Colombia.