It is estimated that only 1% of all global woodlands is considered cloud forest.

Cloud forests are unique, fragile, ecosystems–biodiversity hotspots that are not widespread around the world. Urgent action is needed to protect this forests, not only because they harbour concentrations of endemic and threatened species but to maintain their vital role in the provision of freshwater.

Alarachi has one of the highest water capture rates of any ecosystem on the planet as it receives water not only from rainfall but also by maximising absorption of mist from the clouds that intersect with its mountain peeks.

Also known as Water Towers, these forests are able to trap water in their branches, leaves and mosses, which then drip down to the ground and run into groundwater aquifers.

Alarachi ranges from 1000-2800m above sea-level. The water from Alarachi’s forested slopes provide steady clean water supplies into the Bermejo River, which flows from Bolivia into Argentina and Paraguay, ultimately feeding the wetlands of the Gran Chaco (an area twice the size of California that endures the highest temperatures on the continent).

Did you know that clouds in tropical montane forest can add up to an extra month’s worth of water to the system?

All tropical forests are under threat of deforestation – the constant threat by mining, oil and gas exploration, as well as logging – both legal and illegal (we all know that forests the size of Greece disappear every year).

But cloud-forests are particularly vulnerable to climate change. The altitude band of cloud formation on tropical mountains is limited, creating archipelago-style forest islands. The isolation and uniqueness of a cloud forest promotes explosive speciation, exceptionally high endemism, and of course an even greater sensitivity to climate. Biota are being lost -including species with significant economic or medicinal potential – even before they have been identified by science.

Join our family. Be part of a community of forest-lovers and let’s work together to protect the entire eco-system the forest sustains.

Forests are home to 80 percent of Earth’s terrestrial biodiversity.

Together we can preserve habitats for endangered species, conserve wildlife corridors, and support the communities that depend upon them.

Join our family.