Every October 9th, Argentina celebrates the National Park Ranger Day, a date established by Law N°12.103 in 1934, in which we remember and pay tribute to those who, with dedication and courage, protect the country's natural resources.
Park rangers are the custodians of biodiversity, looking after ecosystems ranging from the lush Patagonian forests to the arid northern regions, passing through the waters of the Atlantic and even reaching Antarctica. Their mission is essential to preserve the natural and cultural heritage, not only for current but also for future generations.
The origins of the National Ranger Corps date back to 1928, when the first seven rangers were appointed in the Southern National Park. Since then, their work has evolved, and today they are professionals specialised in the conservation of protected areas. These workers not only safeguard native flora and fauna, but also ensure the safety of visitors to parks and natural areas throughout the country. They also play a key role in environmental education and the promotion of responsible tourism.
The first ranger school was founded in 1938 on Victoria Island. In 1967 the Ranger School was created, the first in Latin America, and in 1969 it was renamed the Ranger Training Centre ‘Ranger Bernabé Méndez’ in honour of Bernabé Méndez, who lost his life in 1968 in the defence of the Iguazú National Park.
Today, park rangers are trained at the Centro de Formación y Capacitación en Áreas Protegidas, located in Embalse, Córdoba, where they receive instruction to face the challenges of protecting ever-changing ecosystems.
National park rangers do not only protect continental areas. Since 1990, and through an agreement with the National Antarctic Directorate, Argentine rangers have participated in summer and winter campaigns at the Antarctic Bases Orcadas, Carlini and Esperanza. Argentina is the only country in the world that has systematically sent rangers to this international conservation area, reaffirming its commitment to the preservation of biodiversity in every corner of the planet.
The role of park rangers goes beyond simple surveillance. These professionals patrol, control visitor activities, and are responsible for informing and raising awareness about the importance of respecting environmental care rules, such as fire prevention and proper waste disposal. Through their constant presence in the parks, they encourage a more conscious and respectful relationship between people and nature.
The work of park rangers is vital for the continuity of the work initiated by visionaries such as Francisco P. Moreno, Exequiel Bustillo and Carlos Thays, who promoted the creation of national parks in Argentina. Their legacy lives on thanks to the park rangers who, day by day, protect the natural wealth of the country, guaranteeing its enjoyment for future generations.
Today, on their day, we celebrate and thank the national park rangers, true guardians of Argentina's natural and cultural heritage.