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Chile and Colombia Exchange Strategies Against Forest Fires
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In an effort to enhance prevention and response strategies for forest fires, students from the Master's in Risk Management and Development at the National Army of Colombia's School of Military Engineers conducted a technical visit to the regional coordination center of the National Forestry Corporation (Conaf) in Valparaíso, Chile. This knowledge exchange occurs in a context where both countries face similar challenges exacerbated by climate change and urban expansion.
The regional director of Conaf, Mauricio Núñez, emphasized the importance of sharing experiences and techniques between nations dealing with forest fires under similar climatic conditions and ecosystem pressures. Claudia Gómez, director of the master's program, highlighted the relevance of Conaf's technical work, noting the absence of an entity with a similar focus in Colombia.
Major John Pulido, deputy director of the School of Military Engineers and a master's student, expressed the value of understanding risk and disaster management in Chile, identifying areas for improvement and strengthening for Colombia. Angie Quintero, an environmental engineer and also a student, emphasized the importance of directly observing the operations of the Chilean team, which will allow for the transfer of practical knowledge to Colombia.
Patricio Balladares, regional head of Conaf's Department of Forest Fire Protection, explained that the students received an induction on the components of the Forest Fire Protection Program and relevant meteorological and atmospheric aspects. Additionally, they had the opportunity to learn about coordination work in forest emergencies and visit aerial operations.
This meeting represents a step forward in international cooperation for natural disaster management, enabling both countries to strengthen their capacities and strategies to protect their ecosystems and communities from the devastating effects of forest fires.
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