IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT AND PREVIOUS STUDIES

The Cloud Forest (or Montane Forest) holds a great diversity and variation of its composition of plants species, due to the physical, ecological and bioclimatological conditions (Young 1991; Gentry y Ortiz 1993). In the cloud forest of Qosñipata, specifically on the private plot “Palmaceda”, one can observe mainly the presence of secondary forests, being the dominant species the "paca” (Guadua sp) that does not allow the recovery of a primary forest (Latorre 2007).

Vast areas of forest have been intensively cleared for almost 60 years by timbermen and fields for cultivation have been opened. Because of their characteristics, these areas should be declared protected forests (Galiano, W.; Núñez, P.; Valenzuela, L. et al 2001).

In the past years, the loss of mainly forest resources, and the application of environmental laws that restrict the timber extraction in this zone (principal economic activity), and, in the Amazon basin in general, have originated a decrease in people`s economic income.

To be added is the little impact of work proposals related to the subject (usually reforestation measures) from government related institutions which are theoretically proposed and based on ideal concepts and which does not really practice their intention, as their actions are limited by some order or legal document. All this has led to the effect of extraction, depredation and species traffic, not only plant but also fauna species like butterflies, small rodents, wild cats, etc. lora sino también de fauna como: mariposas, pequeños roedores, felinos, etc., practiced by local people.

For that reason it is fundamental to support the ecological restoration and establishment of teaching programmes, as it will not only help replace what once existed or develop local people`s abilities, but also obtain a better scientific and social knowledge (contribution in an ecological context of the forest)  that will serve to propose conservation and sustainable management plans in the area.

Through the establishment of a conservation area that promotes the different actions mentioned, we also will accomplish to expand refuge zones for species that are threatened in the forests that surround the private plot “Palmaceda”.