International Policies and National Legislation Concerning Guanaco Conservation, Management and Trade in Argentina and the Drivers That Shaped Them

Abstract

As most ungulates, guanacos compete for pasture with domestic livestock. In Patagonia, conflict between guanaco conservation and sheep husbandry has increased in recent years. In this chapter, we explore changes in international and national public policies in relation to guanaco conservation and management in Argentina from 1993 to the present, and the drivers that influenced them. The socio-productive context of Patagonia is presented as well as the stakeholders involved and their power relationships. In 2006, Argentine national and provincial authorities, scientists and NGOs crafted the first National Management Plan for Guanacos (NGMP). The Patagonian provinces that harbour most of the country?s guanacos ? Chubut and Santa Cruz ? were the first to adhere to the plan and also the first to create provincial plans that included culling. Thirteen years later, as rancher?s animosity against guanacos increased in Santa Cruz and Chubut provinces, an updated NGMP was developed, lacking a formal participation from scientists, NGOs, and most authorities from other provinces where guanaco populations inhabit. The background that led to the modification of the NGMP and the potential impacts of its implementation on the conservation and sustainable use of the species are presented.