The frailejón grows about 1 and 2.5 centimeters per year taking approximately 100 years to reach its maximum height.
Soldiers of the Infantry Battalion No. 22 Batalla de Ayacucho, together with the Government of Caldas, Corpocaldas and other environmental institutions, carried out a planting in the Los Nevados National Natural Park.
In this activity 120 frailejones were sown, it should be noted that this plant plays a crucial role in the regulation of the hydrological cycle. Acting as natural sponges, absorbing rainwater and gradually releasing it, which contributes to the formation of rivers and water sources that will reach all the inhabitants of the Coffee Axis region.
This operation on the part of the soldiers not only represents a work to restore the ecosystem, but in the same way highlights the vital importance of this plant in the formation and conservation of water in the páramos.
“It is a commitment to life, to water, and our present and future, this area supplies water to more than 30 municipalities of the coffee axis,” said Henry Gutiérrez, governor of Caldas.
Through this type of activities, the Eighth Brigade of Colombian National Army promotes environmental awareness among the community, highlighting the importance of taking care of natural resources. Soldiers contribute to strengthening collaboration conducted by different sectors of society in the search for sustainable development.
The Secretary of Environment of Caldas appreciates the commitment of Colombian National Army for wanting to help restore and recover the ecosystem through coordinated work and makes an invitation for other institutions to join in order to continue safeguarding this strategic ecosystem.
Through these initiatives, we seek not only to recover the environment, but in the same way to create a legacy of conservation and respect for nature for future generations.
Source: Press – National Army
