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The Patagonia BioGem continues to succeed! Read about it in the great press coverage we have received!

2009-07-09T21:26:31Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

I am assuming that you are as excited as I am that this landmark energy study is already being used as a powerful technical tool that clearly shows that HydroAisen and other large, industrial energy projects are unnecessary in Chile! Therefore, I wanted to provide you with additional information about how the study launch went in Santiago and to inform you that it will now also be launched in Patagonia next week!

The event in Santiago was a huge success! There were more than 250 people in attendance who went home recognizing that the HydroAisen dam project would generate less energy than Chile could save through modest yet proactive efficiency measures. In addition to the general public, there were a number of government representatives in the audience and who participated in the round table discussion, including Alejandro Sule, Representative and President of the Energy Commission in the Chamber of Deputies, and Andres Romero of the Federal Energy Efficiency Program. Other key government representatives from the National Environmental Commission and the Water Commission were also in attendance. Mario Manríquez, Vice President of the Chilean Renewable Energy Association, and famous journalist and political analyst, Raúl Sohr, were involved as well.

According to participants, the discussion was the best part the evening. The comments were diverse and very focused on ways to show the government what it needs to do o what it should do in order for Chile to move towards new, sustainable energy policies. Sara Larrain, Chilean Energy Expert and President of the Organization Chile Sustentable, highlighted that "there is an enormous potential in Chile but the proposed work plan is contrary to what Chile requires. The work plan (large energy projects proposed for the future) reflects the interests of a small group of companies that are monopolizing and dominating the energy sector, who are only concerned with their own personal profit." Raúl Sohr, added that "The major threat to Chile is not its neighbors...but it is the lack of an adequate energy policy that integrates energy efficiency and the development of its true energy potential."

As a result of this event, our partners and the study authors already have a number of meetings lined up to discuss where we go from here. These ongoing discussions are essential at a time when the HydroAisen Company is preparing to resubmit the project's Environmental Impact Assessment.

Below, I am copying an article written by Bejamin Witte, Editor for The Patagonia Times and journalist for the Santiago Times. I am also including links to other examples of press coverage (in Spanish).

From the Santiago Times:

CHILE: NEW STUDY QUESTIONS NEED FOR HIDROAYSEN DAM PROJECT

Friday, 03 July 2009

US$3.2 Billion Energy Project Amounts To Overkill, Will Result In Higher Energy Costs

The need for Chile's controversial HidroAysén dam project was sharply questioned Thursday by a report commissioned by national and international opponents to the project. The report found that the 2,750 MW of energy the multi-billion dollar project would bring to Chile's electricity grid is not needed and will substantially increase electricity bills.

The HidroAysén project was proposed in 2006 at a time of widespread concern over Chile's thinly stretched energy supply. It is a joint venture between Chilean utility Colbún and Italian-owned Endesa and calls for construction of five massive dams along Patagonia's Baker and Pascua Rivers. If approved by government environmental authorities, the dams will together boast an installed capacity of 2,750 megawatts (MW) - a huge amount considering Chile's current overall capacity is just shy of 13,000 MW.

HidroAysén officials champion their US$3.2 billion plan as a "Proyecto País," or national priority, insisting the dams are a necessary step toward satisfying the country's growing appetite for electricity. Several high-level government officials have publicly agreed.

"From the point of view of future energy requirements, these 2,400 MW are required. They're not superfluous," Energy Minister Marcelo Tokman said in July, 2007 (prior to a later redesign of the project that upped energy production to 2,700 MW).

But the report unveiled Thursday suggests the energy will not be needed. According to the authors of "Is the HidroAysén Project Necessary? An Analysis of Chile's Energy Future," Chile has enough energy projects in the pipeline to more than satisfy demand in the coming years.

Not only can it do without HidroAysén, but, with aggressive pro-efficiency policies and better use of its plentiful renewable energy sources, Chile could also do away with numerous coal-based electricity generators currently being planned, the researchers found.

"One of the prevailing misconceptions is that in order for Chile to develop economically, if they don't approve HidroAysén, then the country must build massive numbers of coal fired power plants," said study author Stephen Hall, an independent energy consultant from Canada. "But under a realistic forecast that includes aggressive efficiency measures and renewables, we can obviate the need for both HidroAysén and any additional coal development."

The government's National Energy Commission, or CNE, predicts that in the coming years, electricity demand will grow by between 5.5 percent and 6.5 percent annually. By 2025, the CNE forecasts, Chile's 9,118 MW central grid (SIC) will need to be expanded to at least 22,375 MW.

Given the many energy projects government authorities have already or are in the process of approving, Chile should have little difficulty meeting that target, insist Hall and his collaborators, Universidad de Chile researchers Roberto Román, Felipe Cuevas and Pablo Sánchez. By 2025, those projects alone should add nearly 14,000 MW, bringing the SIC's total to approximately 23,000 MW. Energy efficiency efforts and future renewable-based projects could, even by conservative estimates, boost capacity by an additional 7,284 MW, the researchers predict. HidroAysén's 2,750 MW would then bring the total to more than 32,000 MW - or way too much electricity, the study concluded.

"(HidroAysén) will mean the SIC will be massively over-constructed, oversupplied," said Hall. "The consequence would be that electricity rates will rise substantially...If you combine the project with the transmission line, it's over US$5 billion. I can't see any scenario where electricity rates don't go up substantially in order to pay down the plant."

The researchers, furthermore, consider the CNE's demand forecast somewhat exaggerated. Given the current global recession, electricity demand is likely to increase by just 3 percent between now and 2011, Hall and his associates predict. And, given historical trends, demand can be expected to rise by 4.5 percent thereafter. By 2025, in other words, Chile's SIC may in fact need just 18,452 MW, making the HidroAysén dam project even less of a necessity.

The study is welcomed by members of the Patagonia sin Represas (Patagonia without Dams) campaign, a movement that began in Aysén and now involves a host of influential Chilean and foreign participants, including International Rivers, a U.S. based NGO.

Convinced the five dams will ruin pristine Baker and Pascua Rivers and open up the mostly untouched Patagonian wilderness to further industrial exploitation, campaign members have argued for years that the project's obvious costs far outweigh any potential benefits. Given the report's conclusions, critics are now questioning whether the HidroAysén scheme promises any benefits at all.

"We understand why the company would package this as a Proyecto País," said campaign head Patricio Rodrigo. "Because whether it's a company selling carrots, socks or apples, obviously they're going to say they have the world's best product, something that everyone needs. What isn't reasonable is that members of the government would lobby on its behalf, because clearly there are other energy sources. This very study, in fact, shows we're actually facing an oversupply."

The campaign has played a crucial role in helping block the project, which HidroAysén submitted for approval by environmental authorities last August. Under pressure from both government and citizen observers, the company withdrew the plan three months later, promising to resume the approval process by the end of this year.

A more likely scenario, say members of the opposition campaign, is that HidroAysén will wait at least until next March to resubmit - after Chile's upcoming presidential election.

"This year the project enters into its political phase," said Patgonia sin Represas political coordinator Manuel Baquedano, who expects the study to play an influential role as Chile continues to debate the project.

"This is a study that was lacking," he said. "We needed something that shows concretely that with projects already underway, and with improvement in the areas of energy efficiency and investment in renewables, projects like HidroAysén can be done away with. It also gives us an argument against people who say that without HidroAysén we're going back to the era of candles."

By Benjamin Witte

Examples of Press in Spanish:

CNNChile (video): http://www.cnnchile.cl/salud-medio-ambiente/2009/07/02/estudio-revela-que-no-es-necesaria-la-construccion-de-hydroaysen/

La Nacion: http://lanacion.cl/prontus_noticias_v2/site/artic/20090630/pags/20090630223935.html

Chile.com: http://www.chile.com/tpl/articulo/detalle/ver.tpl?cod_articulo=111923

Invertia.com: http://cl.invertia.com/noticias/noticia.aspx?idNoticia=200907071057_INV_78204762&idtel

Diario El Ciudadano: http://www.elciudadano.cl/2009/07/02/estudio-energetico-determina-que-hidroaysen-no-es-necesario/

Universidad de Chile- Programa A Fondo (radio): http://www.radio.uchile.cl/notas2.asp?idNota=53894

Santa Maria (radio): http://www.radiosantamaria.cl/rsm/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=450

ADN (radio): http://www.adnradio.cl/nota.aspx?id=842223

Cariños,

Allie

The HydroAisen Mega Dam Project is Completely Unnecessary...and You Know What? So Are the Other Non-Renewable Energy Projects in Chile

2009-07-02T14:57:25Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

I am thrilled to announce the findings of a groundbreaking energy study that shows the HydroAisen mega-dam project is completely unnecessary! Today in Santiago, the Patagonia Defense Council, of which NRDC is a member, will launch an energy study, ¿Se Necesitan Represas en La Patagonia? Un Análisis del Futuro Energético Chileno (Are Dams Necessary in Patagonia? An Analysis of Chile's Energy Future), which will help further the debate about Chile's energy future. The timing could not be better as the Presidential candidates continue to vie for popularity among a growing majority of Chileans who disapprove of HydroAisen.

This study is a momentous achievement as we have been collaborating with Chilean partner organizations to protect Patagonia and promote sustainable energy policies in Chile for the past few years. When we first got involved in 2006, the HydroAisen project -- five massive hydroelectric dams generating 2,750 MW of power and 18,430 GWh/year of electricity on two of Chile's wildest rivers in the Patagonia region -- was framed as Chile's only opportunity to ensure that Chile economy would continue to grow and that there would be enough energy to supply Chile's growing demands. However, we never believed that destroying Patagonia would be the only way to satiate Chile's energy requirements. I am glad that we trusted our instinct and looked at the proposal with a critical eye as we were correct.

Last August a study was launched that took a hard look at Chile's energy matrix. This study found that renewable energy and energy efficiency should be considered a viable and important resource to supplying Chile's energy. Since this study's publication, the Environmental Review Assessment for the HydroAisen proposal was highly criticized and sent back for revisions; and, the Patagonia Defense Council recognized that in fact it could be proven that building destructive, massive hydroelectric dams are unnecessary considering Chile's other feasible and economically competitive opportunities.

Today, this new technical analysis, Are Dams Necessary in Patagonia? An Analysis of Chile's Energy Future, carried out by Chilean and Canadian energy experts definitively articulates that HydroAisen is completely uncalled for and superfluous. The study provides a thorough investigation of Chile's emerging portfolio of energy projects through 2025 -- Chile's existing energy profile, future projects that are already approved, and future supply and demand trends. Here are the study's key findings:

1. Even using conservative "Business as Usual" models, HydroAisen's output will be unneeded. By 2025, there will be more than enough energy generated between the projects currently under construction and already approved for development to supply all of Chile's demands without HydroAisen, and without taking any extra energy efficiency or renewable energy measures.

By the year 2025, Chile will require 22,736 MW and 105,560 GWh/year according to a business-as-usual scenario.
Considering only those projects currently approved by Chile's National Environmental Commission, there will be 23,143 MW and 124,626 GWh/year.
According to a more updated scenario, Chile will only require 18,452 MW
In either the "business-as-usual" scenario or the more updated one, integrating energy efficiency measures and renewable energy sources into the model results in a 23% supply surplus over the projected demand.

2. Chile's predicted energy demand growth published in April 2008 has decreased significantly due to the global economic recession. Before 2008, when the country experienced a robust economy, energy demand was estimated to grow at rates of 5.5% to 6.5% annually until 2025. Since the onset of the recession, many of Chile's key industries, such as mining and construction, have suffered, negatively affecting these rates. Chile's National Energy Commission has even readjusted its prediction for 2009 to a 2.1% growth from 4.7%. The result in the adjusted forecast is a reduction in the need for installed power by 4,000 MW.

3. The global recession provides a three-year window of opportunity during which Chile can reorient its entire national energy portfolio, enhancing its energy security, technological capital, and economic efficiency and environmental responsibility. Based on an energy study published in July 2008,* Chile possesses great potential in energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. This 2009 analysis also finds that Chile's geography is particularly well-suited for solar and geothermal exploration. The results show that if measures are enacted soon to increase energy efficiency, 40% of the approved coal projects can be eliminated from Chile's future energy matrix. It also illustrates that if Chile invests in energy efficiency and renewable technologies now, the energy demand forecast for 2025 decreases to just 18,452 MW.

There are 2,719 MW and 12,799 GWh/year associated with renewable energy projects, mainly geothermal, biomass, wind, concentrated solar and photovoltaic energy
There are 3,041 MW and 19,817 GWh/year of identified opportunities in energy efficiency that are economically viable.

4. The successful implementation of efficiency and renewable technologies will depend on government policies and programs. The report highlights several specific measures that the government can take to increase their competitiveness in the market, including the need to increase the Renewable Energy Standard via Public Law 20.257 from 10% to 25% in 2025. It also encourages developing and implementing minimum energy efficiency standards, a framework for integrated planning and resource development, and a plan to modernize the electric grid.

5. The costs of investing in HydroAisen are far greater than investing in a diverse portfolio of efficiency and renewable energy projects. In a life cycle analysis of the total costs, energy efficiency and renewable energy are more competitive than the dams and other conventional forms of energy. Moreover, the assertion that the only plausible choices are the HydroAisen project and coal fired plants, which are both environmentally harmful, is false. The better solution is to diversify Chile's energy matrix with economically viable energy efficient practices and renewable energy projects.

Therefore, there is no need for the HydroAisen dam project to satiate Chile's energy demands.

The Are Dams Necessary in Patagonia? An Analysis of Chile's Energy Future study was carried out by Stephen Hall, an energy consultant from Canada with extensive experience in Chile, and Professor Roberto Roman of the University of Chile, a leading expert on renewable energy, and his team. The study was overseen and financially supported by the Patagonia Defense Council. NRDC and the Patagonia Foundation also provided funding for the study.

It's a date: Chilean President Michelle Bachelet will visit President Obama on Tuesday!

2009-06-22T17:37:16Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

Michelle Bachelet will make the trip I know too well from Chile to Washington, DC to meet with President Obama this Tuesday, June 23rd. Although she will have a direct flight and will not be seated in coach on a Lan or an American Airlines vessel, President Bachelet will be preparing to discuss the same issues- renewable energy and climate change- that I do when I go to Chile.

President Obama invited President Michelle Bachelet to Washington in April during the 5th Summit of the Americas in Trinidad and Tobago held after Bachelet called for the need to invest in green technology and Obama himself called for partnerships on sustainable energy. During this visit, the two Presidents will continue to discuss these issues in addition to climate change and economic development.

This week's meetings come at a critical moment in Chile's energy development. Over the last three years, there has been a major controversy over plans to build a massive hydroelectric scheme in Patagonia. There are plans for several new coal plants; and there is a push to develop nuclear power. Yet Chile has huge potential for, and increasing interest in, energy efficiency and renewable energy sources to meet its energy needs. Chile is already experiencing accelerating melting of glaciers and other effects of climate change with serious implications for its energy choices.

Cooperation with the United States could help Chile move towards a more sustainable energy future. Upon declaring the Chilean Patagonia as a BioGem, NRDC has been working with Chilean non-governmental organizations, academic institutions and the government to analyze all of Chile's energy options. Much progress has been made over the past few years to spark an open debate about energy policies and take a hard look at whether or not large hydroelectric projects are truly necessary to supply Chile's energy demands. At this point, a more formal collaboration with the US government would be extremely valuable. Such a partnership should focus on reviewing various energy options, building policy, regulatory, and technical capacities, and making available clean technology options. The United States should work with the Chilean government to develop an energy policy that emphasizes efficiency and cleaner, renewable sources of power.

An alliance between the United States and Chile around these areas could serve as a model for sustainable energy partnerships with other Latin American countries as well.

NRDC NY Office Staff Support Patagonia Without Dams Campaign

2009-05-05T18:52:05Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

Smile and say "cheese", "queso" and "Patagonia WITHOUT dams!"

Today's monthly New York office staff meeting closed out with a group photo to support the Patagonia Sin Represas (Patagonia BioGem) campaign. Our picture was added to the hundreds already collected on the website http://turostroxpatagonia.blogspot.com/. This initiative is mobilizing and uniting Chileans and international advocates in support of a Patagonia without dams. The idea is to represent the human side of this campaign using the faces of people concerned around the world.

Here is our group shot:

We look wide awake for the first meeting of the day!

We took this photo to stand in solidarity with our Chilean partners and other international colleagues who know that there is a better energy future for Chile. We are proud to add our faces and this photo to the many others that have been collected to express the grave concern and disapproval towards the proposed massive hydroelectric dams in Chilean Patagonia.

NRDC has been involved in this campaign since 2006 when we recognized that there is a real opportunity in Chile to be a leader in energy efficiency and renewable energy and that this opportunity was threatened by a number of proposed ill-conceived hydroelectric projects.

Destroying Patagonia is absolutely unnecessary to supply Chile's energy demands. There are numerous energy alternatives to constructing massive hydroelectric dams in Chilean Patagonia. One study has already been completed demonstrating the great potential for renewable energy and efficiency. There are more studies underway as well.

We will continue to work with our Chilean partners to promote these alternatives and to support better energy policies.

To participate in this effort and to support the campaign:

1) Take a photo of yourself with the phrase "Patagonia SIN Represas"and/or "Patagonia WITHOUT Dams"*

* You can write this phrase on a poster, your body or any other place that will be visible in the photo

2) Send your photo to turostroxpatagonia@gmail.com before May 29th to be one of the growing collages of faces.

3) Spread the word!

To see the creative submissions that others have entered, go to: http://turostroxpatagonia.blogspot.com/

February means vacation in Chile

2009-02-27T15:38:35Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

It is the month of February, which in Chile means vacation time for most. As I sit in my office with a cup of green tea (though I wish I were sharing a round of yerba mate with my Chilean colleagues) I can take some time to catch up, reflect and write a bit about the campaign and recent progress on the relevant renewable energy and efficiency fronts.

First and foremost, I'm pleased to draw your attention to our new Patagonia Campaign page on the BioGems website. The page has everything that it had before, but we hope that it is even more inspiring and convincing as to why Patagonia (and our other BioGems in the Americas) need our BioGem Defenders to take action and support our work. If you have never been to Chilean Patagonia, I would particularly like to invite you to take a virtual tour.

Finally, if you have not written to Chilean President Michelle Bachelet in the past encouraging her to work with NRDC in developing energy alternatives and to reject the HydroAisen mega-dam scheme, please do so now! Elections for Chile's next president will be in December of 2009. We have ten more months to build on the relationships with President Bachelet's administration that we have worked hard to develop over the past few years to push for a clean and sustainable energy future for Chile.

We are already working with our Chilean partners and other allies to make energy issues and the HydroAisen project a priority in the presidential debates. It is certainly going to be an exciting few months and I look forward to your ongoing involvement!

World Bank warns of climate change in Andes

2009-02-26T22:51:17Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

As the international community gears up for the next round of UN climate talks, negotiators should keep at the forefront of their minds the World Bank's recent warning that climate change threatens the disappearance of the Andes' tropical glaciers putting water, energy and agricultural production at risk. Recognizing the need to combat climate change and to protect unique ecosystems, NRDC has been hard at work in the Andes and in other places in the Americas through our SaveBioGems Program. Since 2001, the NRDC BioGems Initiative has encouraged more than 11 million citizens to take action to ensure that America's last wildlands and rarest wildlife treasures -- our BioGems -- remain wild for the sake of a sustainable planet and all future generations.

Although the focus of the BioGem program is to stop the threat of large scale logging, mining and industrialization to these special places, climate change now touches everything that we do. This is nowhere clearer than in our work in Chile.

Chilean Patagonia is one of the most pristine and least polluted places in the world. While not mentioned in this latest World Bank report, Chile too is suffering from the effects of climate change. For example, last year was significantly drier than in Chile's recent recorded history coupled with a longer summer. These two factors created a serious drought in Chile and in addition shallower reservoirs (by an average of 40% compared to the previous year!) Studies show that the impacts of rising temperature, the sudden drop in rainfall and glacial retreat on Chile's natural environment are significant. These impacts should not be ignored.

Ironically, Chile is under intense pressure to dam the most stunning rivers of Patagonia in order to meet its growing energy demands. The most imminent threat is the HydroAisen project, which proposes to construct five massive hydroelectric dams generating a total of 2,750 MW on two of Chilean Patagonia's free flowing rivers, the Baker and Pascua.

This project is presented as Chile's energy solution; however, decision makers are not taking into account the impacts of climate change (among a number of other considerable problems). Hydroelectric generation depends on adequate rainfall, which has not been consistent in the past couple of years. Without a plentiful reserve of water, the dams would not function at projected capacity. Moreover, glaciers in Chile are retreating, which will also reduce the hydroelectric output.

However, HydroAisen did not mention climate change in its recently submitted 10,500-page Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). It is unacceptable that in all of those thousands of pages, information and a discussion of climate change was excluded, especially considering the new occurrences of glacial lake overflow (read "major flooding") in the areas nearby to where these dams have been proposed.

Environmental organizations were not the only ones taken aback by the glaring inadequacies and environmental impacts conveniently left out from the HydroAisen project's evaluation. Thirty-two Chilean governmental technical agencies, including the National Forestry Corporation and the National Geologic and Mining Service, submitted significant criticisms of the EIA. Their censure coupled with the thousands of scornful public comments resulted in a delay in reviewing the acceptability of this project.

During this delay, NRDC will continue to work with our Chilean partners, members of the government and representatives from the private sector to encourage investment in renewable and efficient energy. Since our initial involvement in this campaign to prevent the construction of this ill-conceived mega-dam scheme, we recognized the need to prompt real public debate about Chile's energy future. Chile is at a critical energy crossroads and has the potential to be a leader on this issue for the region. Before moving forward on massive energy projects, the government needs to further analyze what Chile's current energy situation and effectively account for the impacts of climate change. With the upcoming Presidential elections in Chile at the end of the year, now is the time to focus on the best sustainable energy options and to encourage investment in efficiency and renewables.

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 9 - The Grand Arrival

2007-12-07T21:26:45Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

Tuesday, November 27, 2007 - 12 KM; Escuela NOLS- Plaza de Armas, Coyhaique

Everyone was so excited about arriving in Coyhaique that we woke up and were ready ahead of schedule. Everyone was in particularly good spirits as after much negotiating with the city government yesterday and this morning, we had successfully gained the right to enter the main plaza and to cruse down the main street, Calle Prat, on horseback.

There were more of us than anyone could have expected! We were more than 125 on horseback and scores more in support vans and other cars. I put the saddle on La Coneja for the last time. As I was tying the cynch, I was reflecting upon how just nine days ago I had no idea what end was up and here I was now preparing everything for the ride on my own. I had the best teachers in the world instructing me and now I felt like a pro…or almost. It wasn’t until everyone was getting ready to move out the 12 KM into town when I realized that I had forgotten all about the reins! I had to run back up the hill where we camped and find them. I guess the lesson here is, while I have learned much about horseback riding and can hold my own both on the horse and in preparing her, I am far from being a true gaucha and still have much to learn!

It was a beautiful ride into town. We walked the final part of this historic nine-day cabalgata in groups of three. I was somewhere in the middle of the pack, which in my view was the best seat in the house as whether I looked forward or backward all I could see were horses and jinetes. En route, we were passed by cars honking in support; and, with still 5 KM until we reached the central plaza there were already people lined up in the streets with signs, banners and cameras. Never before has Coyhaique seen such an event. We had truly demonstrated to the country, the government and the people of the region who would be directly affected that there is a tightly unified effort to defend the natural resources and the culture that is held so dear here.

Someone told me that even during the protests of the Pinochet era there weren’t as many people out in the streets supporting such an initiative. It really was a most fantastic arrival! We could not have imagined or have asked for anything more. The Coalition Ciudadana Aisen Reserva de Vida (www.aisenreservadevida.cl), our regional partner, had been hard at work for weeks preparing for our arrival. It certainly showed! In the central plaza, there were performances for all to enjoy. One act followed another with music, dance and speech. Famous local and regional musicians animated the crowds all day. It felt like a mini, latin version of Woodstock! As the poblador of the Baker River region, Don Alquilino Olivares, stated “Este ha sido uno de los éxitos más grandes que hemos tenido como defensores de esta región". People young and old flocked to the streets to greet us and to learn more about what we were demonstrating against and how they could get involved.

Once everyone arrived in the plaza, all the horses, jinetes and supporters gathered in front of the Regional Governor, Viviana Betancourt’s, office. There were speeches by the organizers, gauchos, other supporters; I even spoke, with La Coneja and new friends by my side. There was great energy and emotion for the cause. A number of gauchos representing the various communities that would be affected went to meet with Sra. Betancourt. We presented a solar panel and CFL energy efficient light bulbs representing alternatives to the dams. In addition, we delivered a letter of demands to the government, asking them to take a more active stance against Endesa and Colbún because their water rights are based on an illegitimate legacy from the Pinochet dictatorship. The letter demands a formal and ongoing dialogue between the government and the local community to discuss ways to promote the region’s traditional economic activities without harming the local culture and the environment.

La Intendenta took hours to respond to our demands and we all waited patiently outside her office, horses and all. As the day was coming to a close, we finally received a formal letter from her with a response that we did not feel was adequate. Everyone was disappointed, though sadly not surprised. Her insufficient response did not damper the mood -- it provided yet more passion to keep up the fight. The cultural and musical show helped to keep everyone’s eyes on the prize and maintain a high level of energy. If Betancourt was going to provide us with vague responses, then we would continue to express our demands and dissatisfaction.

And we have the strength in numbers to do so. As Betancourt was taking her time responding, we were collecting signatures of support against the dams. The signatures are significant because it demonstrates to the government who they should be representing. When they make a decision about the HydroAysen project, they need to consider more than just the technical aspects, but the people who they are in office to represent as well. By the end of our journey, we collected over 5,000 signatures!

As this was my thanksgiving adventure, I want to give a big thank you to many who I just met and have been working with for some time. You are all in inspiration- the four year old girl, to the adolescents, young adults, and the 89 year old gaucho. Thank you to everyone who helped to organize this cabalgata, who participated on horseback, and who showed support from a car or from your doorstep. Thank you to the journalists who recognized the importance of this event in the fight against the dam project. And thank you to those who are taking action by writing to elected officials, supporting these groups financially or otherwise, and by spreading the word. This is just the beginning. Everyone is aware that this is going to be a long fight, but we have made it all the way from Cochrane to Coyhaique without falling off, making a wrong turn, or losing anyone. This bodes well for the initiatives to come.

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 8 - Hitching a Ride

2007-12-07T21:22:56Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

Monday, November 26, 2007 - 28 KM. Melipal (Sector Cruce Balmaceda-Ibáñez)- Escuela NOLS (Frente entrada Valle Simpson):

I was surprised that I was one of a grand total of five vegetarians on this journey! It was nice to share trail mix and fruit with the others. In fact, as the days progressed on the cabalgata, more and more people were tempted by our treats. One colleague, Juan Pablo, 20 years old of the Jovenes Tehuelches (http://jovenestehuelches.blogspot.com/, http://www.jovenestehuelches.cl/), had been lightheartedly bothering me about not eating meat since the first day; but today, he came up to me and said “no quiero comer carne mas…nunca mas!” (He didn’t want to eat meat ever again!) This is to say that there has certainly been a lot of meat on this trip- breakfast, lunch and dinner consisted of sheep or other red meat in addition to bread made of animal lard, and perhaps some lettuce and tomatoes. Every day we have had asadas.

Just as people share matte and wine, they too share the knives to cut off pieces of meat. Fortunately, Juan Pablo wouldn’t have to eat only meat tonight, as we had been promised a celebration dinner at the NOLS School where we would camp this evening that would consist of fine foods including beans, guacamole and fresh fruit! In addition, we were assured there would be hot showers. You have no idea how excited I was for both!

The NOLS School is located just outside of Coyhaique. As there was still some preparation left for tomorrow, I hitchhiked into Coyhaique with Francine, one of the youngest Jovenes Tehuelches, to help with final arrangements for tomorrow. Francine is just 16 years old and already has the drive of an activist. She had read about the cabalgata in the newspaper and arranged to participate by taking her mid-term exams ahead of time. She explained to me that a few of her teachers wouldn’t let her do the work ahead of time because they approve of the HydroAysen project; however, she protested their refusal to show her support against the dams.

In Coyhaique, we went to the Coalition’s office to paint banners for tomorrow. As we left the city looking for a ride back, we stopped everyone on the streets informing them about tomorrow’s event; most of them already knew about it and promised to be there. Although Francine does not live in Coyhaique she has relatives there and seemed to know almost everyone we passed. Francine, among the other younger participants on this cavalcade, has truly impressed me with her dedication to this cause. The student involvement in the campaign and in this cabalgata has been particularly meaningful to the older gauchos who fear that it is the younger generations who are letting the gaucho culture disappear. While it is true that many younger people are selling their land, all is certainly not lost. Romina is a testament to this. She is four years old and can ride a horse better than most of the people on the trip, even some of the more experienced jinetes! And, she can shout in protest louder and more vividly than most!

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 7 – Walking on Water

2007-12-07T21:20:21Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

Sunday, November 25, 2007 - 26 Km. Villa Cerro Castillo –Melipal (Sector Cruce Balmaceda-Ibáñez)

A long but most enjoyable day! I thought that I fell off my horse, died and went to heaven. I have never been in a more spectacular surrounding in my life. We left camp by 6 AM as we had much territory to cover. Today, we avoided the road as much as possible and got to climb over the mountains and hills adjacent to Cerro Castillo on horseback, with the river always in sight. Don Domingo, one of the older and more experienced gauchos, reminded me to pay attention to riding in addition to the scenery! During the day, we passed through fields of daisies and dandelions and over rocks from past volcanic eruptions. And we crossed rivers.

The more experienced jinetes took great care in ensuring that everyone crossed the rivers safely. With ease, they led the more novice riders through the fast moving, profound and rocky waters. Now I know how Jesus walked on water- with the help of a horse and some experienced gauchos!

After about five hours of riding, we took a quick matte siesta at an idyllic meadow. We loosened the saddles and let the horses drink from the river nearby as we immersed ourselves in conversations.

The second part of the day consisted of completely different terrain than the first. In the afternoon, we continued on through an open, very dry area where you could see for miles and miles. This vicinity was once a dense native forest but an enormous fire in the 1940s had burned down thousands of acres. Still to this day the vegetation has yet to regenerate.

The open space left us as easy targets for the wind. Even though I hadn’t fallen off my horse crossing the rivers, I was sure that the wind would knock me off my saddle! I had never experienced such forceful winds before! By the time I arrived at our second to last campsite, I truly felt like a Patagon. Not only could I ride and manage a horse, eat at an asada, drink wine and mate, and sit around a campfire for hours, but also I looked the part - between the strong sun and wind and the dusty roads, my skin has been weathered by the Patagonia climate and environment.

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 6 – “Incoming!”

2007-12-07T18:15:35Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

We arrived in Cerro Castillo with about 80 jinetes and when we entered the town we were joined by more than 30 others. We were now a greater force than anyone had imagined.

We paraded around the town receiving onlyt supportive cheers. It seemed as though the local communities were now unified and unstoppable. Before the cabalgata each community was focused on their respective sectors. Many had expressed a feeling of isolation and powerlessness; however, as we moved from community to community, more jinetes joined the cabalgata with a renewed strength to fight this project. Everyone felt more empowered and motivated with each new stop we made. The cabalgata demonstrated that no one was fighting alone in this campaign; that there was now a movement of people on the local, regional, national and international levels that were involved…and this was a cause for celebration!

In addition to building strength on the trails, the additional participants added strength to the celebrations as well. Cerro Castillo was the site of our biggest asada yet. From mid-day onward through the early morning, we celebrated the gaucho culture, the Patagonia region, friendship and unity of the campaign.

In addition to great food and drink, there were live performances by well renowned regional musicians. The dance floor opened up and immediately all began to take part in the traditional dances of the region, which involved a male and female partnering up and coquettishly dancing with their handkerchiefs. Everyone was energized and merry as we were a mighty group of 110 horse riders and at least 40 other supporters. As we were getting closer to Coyhaique, more journalists and TV stations came to capture this momentous event and join in the festivities. In addition to music, food and drink, there were traditional games and great conversation as well.

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 5 – Padre Porfirio

2007-12-04T22:23:18Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

(Friday, November 23, 2007 - 20,63 kms; Pto Tranquilo-Sta. Rosa [Cerca Bahia Murta])

The past few days I have written about the gaucho life I have been living and this fantastic adventure that so many people here have embarked upon to demonstrate their passion and determination to prevent HydroAysen’s energy scheme from becoming a reality. Joining them in this fight has been an honor in which I have had the privilege to participate. But, you don’t have to take my word for it alone. To learn from Robert F. Kennedy Jr. why he feels it is important to “prevent Patagonia from electrocution”, go to: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Be8q8rAS4Ww or http://youtube.com/watch?v=UDvUwezzV20 for a version with Spanish subtitles. If you have yet to be convinced, you’ll be sure to fall in love with Patagonia after hearing what Beto Cuevas, an amazing Chilean rock star, has to say after visiting the region with us last year. We created this video to share his experience with you: (English) http://www.savebiogems.org/patagonia/video-beto-cuevas2.html; (Spanish) http://www.nrdc.org/laondaverde/international/patagonia.asp

While Kennedy and Cuevas were not able to physically be present for the cabalgata, their support was felt from afar. It worked out well that the major focus of the cabalgata was on the individual gauchos themselves. This initiative was a unique and necessary opportunity to valorize a culture and lifestyle at risk.

After yet another amazing trek, now with more than 50 riders were riding by the spectacular northern ice fields, grasslands, forests, lakes and wetlands, we arrived in the community of Santa Rosa in time for an asada. As always, the food was plentiful and fresh; each community we have passed through has provided us with great nourishment to allow us to continue on our trek. However, it is not the food alone that has kept us going, but also the kind words and support that everyone has given. In Santa Rosa, Padre Porfirio gave a sermon speaking to the religious importance of protecting the Patagonian region, the natural resources and the culture.

His soft voice and clear message touched all of us. It is so important to have the support of the church in this effort. While not everyone on the cabalgata is religious, nevertheless Padre Porfirio made everyone feel like a part of a family working for an important cause. Porfirio shared his thoughts about the importance to fight for one’s land, the future of the region and for the water as the life reserve for Patagonia. At the service, Padre Porfirio drew everyone’s attention to how unprecedented and valuable this cavalcade was as campesinos, pioneers, and others united together to fight for a noble cause.

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 4 – Following the Enemy

2007-12-04T22:02:32Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

(Thursday, November 22, 2007; 27 kms. Crice Los Leones-Pto. Tranquilo)

Today we covered a lot of territory on the road, which meant that we were passed by many cars and trucks. Whenever a vehicle had to get through, it became a big effort to get all of the horses to one side. It was pointed out later that one of the cars that had passed us at a fast pace was filled with Endesa workers. You could see the Endesa workers’ heads turn as they drove past us. Over the past few months, Endesa has become more defensive and concerned with the counter movement to their proposed project. This cabalgata demonstrates another threat to their plans; they know by now that this is just the beginning and that there is more to come. None of these gauchos or other participants are going to allow this project be implemented.

Upon arriving in Tranquilo, we were met by a number of residents on horseback and bike. They led us through the streets of the town as others stood outside cheering us on. Many people had “Patagonia sin Represas” signs in their windows and storefronts. Even those who took money from Endesa to use their land to do studies or their images to advertise the projects came out to watch the growing numbers of horseback riders through the time.

Every time we arrive in another town I am filled with excitement and pride to be a part of this campaign and movement with my colleagues and new friends. I was particularly satisfied when we arrived in Tranquilo because I felt that I had finally adjusted to life on a horse! As I more gracefully dismounted La Coneja, Don Diego told me that I looked more comfortable on my horse today as I could now not only walk, but also trot and run without my heart beat reaching triple digits!

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 3 – Traffic Jam

2007-12-04T21:51:30Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

(Wednesday, November 21, 2007; 30 Kms. Cruce El Maitén –Cruce Los Leones)

Sunrise over Lago Negro was magical this morning. Fresh daybreak light glistened along the surface of the lake, which was already alive with action. Many of the gauchos had been up for some time- they were already dressed in their bombacha pants, their knives slipped into their fajas (girdle), a silk handkerchief around their necks and berets on their heads. By now they had shared a few rounds of mate and were bathing their horses at the water’s edge, preparing them for the day ahead. We left the campsite by 7 AM sharp and enjoyed a pleasant pace as we traveled through Patagonia’s most gorgeous scenery. After a few hours we came upon a bright orange, one-lane bridge. We had to organize ourselves and our horses into a single file to allow for cars to pass. As you can imagine, for any passerby seeing scores of horses and gauchos was an unusual site and we attracted a fair amount of attention. When it was our turn to pass, a few of the horses barged ahead only to find themselves slipping and sliding, some even falling.

The sound of the metal horseshoes making contact on the bridge was thunderous and when the horses fell this noise intensified ten-fold. After seeing the experience of the first few horses, none of the others would budge. They now feared crossing this bridge and we had to dismount and carefully lead them across, gaining their trust that they would be ok. The metal floor was slippery and it was difficult for the horses to maintain their balance. They would step up to the bridge, take a couple of steps and turn around. While I was feeling better today about riding and felt in good control of my horse, I was happy to dismount and walk for 100 meters. It took over twenty minutes for everyone to catch up; we created a small traffic jam on both ends of the bridge, however nobody seemed to mind the delay as they were provided with the entertainment of a lifetime, free of charge.

Upon reaching the other side, Doug Tompkins arrived overhead in a small plane and took pictures of this momentous event. The jinetes were excited to have their picture taken. The effort proved the importance of the cabalgata and everyone’s participation. It was an impressive view of so many horse riders on the ground, I can’t wait to see what it looks like from up above.

As the sun set we arrived at our campsite at Pte. Leones. Over dinner, we had a group meeting to discuss a possible concern about our arrival in Coyhaique. Apparently, the city deputies were not supportive of the idea that the cabalgata arrive at the central Plaza via the main street, Calle Prat. This news incited excitement, anger and unity all at the same time. “How could it be that after nine days of trekking we are not permitted to make a grand entrance at our final destination?!” asked a number of participants. “Yo SI voy a llegar. Estoy disponible para sacrificar mi mismo a esta causa. No van a construir estas represas.”

Many people felt that the arrival in Coyhaique was synonymous with showing dedication and determination against the construction of the dams and were not going to let anything get in the way. Many were prepared to protest, even in the case that the situation turned violent. One of the “gringos” from Germany who now lives in Chile, was rightfully concerned about possible violent confrontation. Although she and the other gringos are 100% supportive of the campaign against the dams, by participating in a violent protest, all non-Chilean residents would be risking their right to live in Chile. Apparently, because of the tourist visa that most of us gringos have, if we protested and violence resulted, we could, at best, be fined, or at worst lose our right to be in Chile for a number of years. As there is still about a week left, time will tell.

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 3 – Traffic Jam

2007-12-04T21:51:30Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

(Wednesday, November 21, 2007 - 30 Kms. Cruce El Maitén –Cruce Los Leones)

On Horseback Through Patagonia: Day 2 – Show Me the Mate

2007-12-04T21:25:34Z

Allison Silverman, NRDC alum

(Tuesday, November 20, 2007; 29 Kms. El Manzano- Cruce El Maitén [Bifurcación Pto. Tranquilo/Guadall, Lago Negro])

Everyone back home in NYC warned me that my legs would feel sore the first few days of riding a horse. I was pleased to find that this was not the case this morning when I was awoken by a call from outside the tent window to “!levantate!” (wake up!) at 5 AM. Nevertheless, my lower back did feel a bit tender and I certainly was not quite ready to jump right back on the horse. Fortunately, I had some time to be on my own two feet as we didn’t leave camp until around 8 AM. There was much to do before heading out. We had to pack up our tents and all of our belongings and prepare our horses for another long day on the road, which includes feeding them, brushing them, showing them love and preparing the saddles. The supposedly “simple” life of the gauchos is certainly not effortless.

Regardless of all of the responsibilities involved in the gaucho lifestyle, there is always time for a few rounds of yerba mate, a type of tea that is traditional to Chilean Patagonia, among other South American countries. While I enjoyed the pungent taste- a combination of tea and coffee, I preferred the ceremony around it. Friends gathered around in a circle and one person would be in control of filling the gourd with the tea, the hot (but not boiling) water, and the metal straw. He would then pass it around one person at a time, refilling the gourd with more water for the next lucky participant. I learned that down to the details of how the tea is added, how and when the water is mixed, how the straw is inserted for drinking, how the tea is brewed and passed amongst the tea drinkers is important.

I made a mistake this morning from which I have learned a lesson that I would not forget. I said “gracias” after receiving the matte drink. As a result, I was left out of future rounds. I discovered that I should only say “thank you” when I feel satisfied and don’t want anymore. I really could have used the extra rounds of mate as the initial energy that I had gained from it quickly wore off after the first hour; and thereafter I realized that this was going to be a long and intense day. As this was only the second day, I felt that this nine-day cabalgata was going to be an endless experience. While everyone else looked so comfortable and “at home”, chatting and laughing amongst themselves, I was struggling to keep a steady rhythm, or at least to stay onboard.

La Coneja was not cooperating; she was indeed acting like a rabbit. She would go from walking so slowly that I actually would start to fall asleep (yes, I got drowsy riding a horse, regardless of the fact that I had no idea what I was doing and should have been nervously focusing on staying balanced and in control) to racing ahead so quickly that I had to hold on for dear life so as not to be thrust aside like road kill! I felt like I was the lead role in a slapstick film about a gringo trying to participate in a horse ride. I never thought that riding a horse could be like bungee jumping but in essence that is what it felt like as I would be thrust ahead with great speed and intensity and then found myself barely moving, just hanging out. With every step and subsequent weight shift on the horse, I had to remind myself of why the hell I was riding a horse. I invite you to join me for a few seconds to see what it was like to ride La Coneja: [video]

By mid day, we had made it into the town of Puerto Betlrand, which overlooked the stunningly tranquil General Carrera lake, Chile’s largest. Here, like in Cochrane, we were warmly received by local residents. Although this town felt smaller and more deserted, once we arrived, our presence and solidarity filled the town with energy. The arrival of so many horse riders demonstrated the strength behind those who are fighting the proposed dams. The vigor, motivation and passion amongst us and those with whom we were in contact grew with each moment. This was so important as many people in the towns and communities that we will be passing along the journey are undecided about the proposed project. The ambivalence is the result of the perception that it is already a done deal; people feel that it is not worth their while to take the time or energy protest. However, when more than three dozen people from all over Chile, the US and Europe come together to voice their disapproval and fortitude to prevent such a project, we saw the beginnings of an influential affect. It certainly was the motivator that kept me on my horse all day and will have to keep me motivated for the next eight days.

Although the day was challenging, I was well rewarded with a most excellent campsite at the Cruce El Maitén on Lago Negro. In addition, we celebrated the end of another successful day with mate, wine and an asada of delicious local vegetables and a bar-b-q consisting of a select number of recently captured lambs, which were roasting slowly by the fire, nailed to a stick. Kris and Doug Tompkins (see http://www.theconservationlandtrust.org/eng_chile/index.htm for more information about them and their work in Chile) joined us for dinner and a musical celebration of accordion playing and dancing late in to the night.