On October 25, 2024, the Argentine government announced plans to sell over 5,000 hectares of the Yaucha Estate in San Carlos, a region known for its invaluable environmental and cultural significance. This decision has sparked a heated debate between local families, known as puesteros, and the Argentine Army, which claims ownership of the land.
The Yaucha Estate, located 120 kilometers from Mendoza, is a crucial water reserve in the Uco Valley, home to diverse flora and fauna, including native species such as pumas and guanacos. Families have inhabited this land for over 60 years, engaging in sustainable agricultural practices and preserving traditional crafts.
Research teams from the Human Paleocology Laboratory have been conducting archaeological studies in the area for 15 years, uncovering significant historical artifacts that highlight the long-standing human presence in the Andes. These findings underscore the importance of the region not only for its natural resources but also for its cultural heritage.
Despite the historical ties of the puesteros to the land, they face eviction threats from the Army, which has initiated legal proceedings to reclaim the estate. Local leaders and organizations are advocating for the recognition of the puesteros' rights and the establishment of the Yaucha Estate as a protected area to safeguard its ecological and cultural assets.
In response to the government's announcement, community members and environmental advocates have called for the exclusion of the Yaucha Estate from the sale list, emphasizing its critical role in preserving biodiversity and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives that respect the region's cultural heritage.