Beekeeping and Forest: The Story of a Family Living in Harmony with Nature in Southern Chile
In southern Chile, where native forests still retain their wild character and generosity, a story of commitment, tradition, and respect for the natural environment unfolds. It is the story of Patricio Quilodrán, his wife Verónica Vidal, and his father René Quilodrán, a family of beekeepers who have found in the forest not only their livelihood but also a way of life based on connection with nature.
From Acoforag, we seek to highlight these stories that bring us closer to the forest and those who know it from within. Each hive represents an effort to understand and respect the ecological balance, and in the case of the Quilodrán-Vidal family, beekeeping becomes a true link to wildlife and a family tradition passed down day by day.
René Quilodrán was the pioneer of this activity in the family, teaching his children the importance of maintaining a constant dialogue with the forest. Patricio, influenced by this upbringing, learned from childhood that each bee plays a fundamental role in the conservation of ecosystems. Today, together with Verónica, he keeps this practice alive, which not only produces quality honey but also contributes to pollination, a key element for local biodiversity.
More than a trade, beekeeping for this family is a form of sustainable forest management, combining tradition, knowledge of the land, and environmental care. Their work is an example of how the responsible exploitation of natural resources can coexist with conservation and wildlife, promoting a conscious forest culture that dialogues with the ecosystem instead of altering it.
In each hive, the Quilodrán-Vidal family demonstrates that respect for nature and passion for the craft are the best way to ensure that the forests of southern Chile remain generous and sustainable for future generations.
The story on Youtube: