Following WSPA’s assessment of the fallout from the eruption of Chile’s Puyehue volcano, our relief operations have begun in neighbouring Argentina.
The emission of ash from the volcano has diminished considerably since early June. However, over the last few weeks, Argentina has been badly affected by the substantial ash deposits, particularly in the provinces of Neuquén and Rio Negro, where a state of emergency has been declared.
WSPA’s assessment found that small producers have been heavily impacted by the fallen ash on pastures and are in need of assistance. In addition, companion animals in the municipality of Villa la Angostura will also receive aid as WSPA plans to assist local animal protection groups currently working to shelter and feed the animals.
Around 40,000 livestock (mainly merino sheep and angora goats) and approximately 400 companion animals will be provided with feed as the ground remains covered with a thick layer of ash, preventing grazing and foraging.
In addition, training will be provided to the most affected small producers on how to address the needs of animals affected by ash; WSPA will also be providing training on how to construct feeders using local materials. We expect the emergency relief work to continue until the end of August.
Mariana Recalde from WSPA’s South America office will be travelling to these affected areas, initiating our emergency response in tandem with local animal shelters and INTA, Argentina’s National Agricultural Technology Institute.
