August 15, 2024 - Reconstructed botanical gardens in the Chilean coastal city of Viña del Mar that were nearly destroyed by forest fires last February are reopening, thanks in part to support from Freeport’s operations in that country.

The inauguration of the first stage of reconstruction includes a historic pergola and bridge at the Botanical Gardens of Viña del Mar that were lost in the fires that destroyed 97 percent of the gardens. The El Abra mining operations, Freeport’s office in Santiago and other members of the Chilean Mining Council contributed to the effort.

“We feel honored to be able to contribute to the rehabilitation of this public park that was severely damaged by fires in February,” said Mario Larenas, Director and Country Manager-Chile. “This initiative allows us to demonstrate that the mining sector not only cares for the areas where it operates but also about other significant places in our country such as this one that is of great historical and touristic importance.”

The gardens, located nearly 1,000 miles from El Abra, were inaugurated in 1951 and cover 395 hectares (about 975 acres) of land. They include 779 species of native Chilean plants, many of which are protected and in danger of extinction. The park also has a valuable collection of cacti and exotic plants from around the world. There also is a collection of medicinal herbs, among many other natural treasures.

The inauguration ceremony was presided by the Minister of Agriculture Esteban Valenzuela who said, “the collaboration between the public and private sector that is occurring in this project is showing results with this pergola that is a symbol of the Botanical Gardens.”

Photo (top right):  The historic pergola and bridge at the Botanical Gardens of Viña del Mar recently were restored with help from El Abra, Freeport’s Santiago office and other members of the Mining Council of Chile. Pictured are mining industry leaders, including Mario Larenas, El Abra’s Director and Country Manager-Chile.