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I recently attended an impressive event, a dedication to the future Patagonia National Park with Conservacion Patagonica.  Yvon Chouinard (Patagonia Founder and all around eco-hero) and Kristine Tompkins (former Patagonia CEO) shared their stories and South American adventures that inspired the Patagonia company as well as their lives. Their dedicated work and tireless commitment to the Patagonia landscape has resulting in the creation of a number of National Parks including Monte Leon.

They spoke about the process they are currently in for making a future Patagonia National Park in Chile. I had no idea how much work and care goes into creating a National Park through acquiring, restoring and protecting the land and all of its inhabitants. Kris and Yvon believe having the land dedicated as a National Park is the best way to protect the wildlands for generations to come. The photos and stories were so awe-inspiring that I went home and asked Kevin when we can go to Patagonia to work. The Conservacion Patagonica actually has a program that if you want to go down there, you can rent some rooms/houses, or, if you prefer, you can help pull fences down and in return you can stay for free. I am ready to go.

They welcome help through their Volunteer Program. and also are accepting Donations.

I went to the event with my friend Val Kilmer, who is doing some impressive work and a very interesting project with his epic ranch in New Mexico. More on that project soon…
In the meantime, you can actually go and stay at Val Kilmer’s ranch at Pecos River Ranch for relaxation, fly flishing, and great food. I had a fabulous time there, and felt like I was in a totally different world. I highly recommend it if you want to get away from it all.

For more on the Conservacion Patagonica: www.conservacionpatagonica.org
For more on Val Kilmer’s ranch www.thepecosriverranch.com