Development threats to biodiversity and opportunities for conservation in the mountain ranges of the Upper Bermejo River Basin, NW Argentina and SW Bolivia

The Upper Bermejo River Basin (UBRB) is the most biodiverse region in Argen tina. A rugged territory and a long history of human settlement, combined w ith social and political isolation, have resulted in large areas with well- preserved forests, a large number of wild plant and animal species, and ind igenous crops. Several factors, including agriculture expansion, intense lo gging activities, and oil and gas prospecting, are posing a threat to biodi versity. Current national parks and reserves are not enough to secure the s urvival of functional populations, especially of the large mammals. Conserv ation of biodiversity in the UBRB requires a broader approach: e.g, protect ion of the most sensitive areas outside present reserves; maintaining the r emaining forest matrix under sustainable management regimes, involving the local communities in the process; and encouraging uses synergetic with cons ervation. Recent purchases by private enterprises of new protected areas, t he willingness of local administrations to establish a new legal conservati on framework, and local communities considering sustainable management of t heir lands, represent encouraging opportunities for the region.