Installation of Technified Irrigation in the Inclusive Native Forest of Villa Pinardi

On December 3, the Electronics Department of the Salesian Educational Center of Talca installed a technological irrigation system for the trees planted in the Inclusive Native Forest, located in Villa Pinardi, Callejones. This activity was led by Professor Patricio Cáceres.

The work was carried out by 10 students of the Electronics Specialty, and consisted of the implementation of an automated system for the irrigation of the Native Forest, which includes the installation of an electronic controller, which allows the programming of the irrigation schedule, in addition to the installation of the pipes so that the irrigation reaches each of the trees through a drip system. The project was designed by students Bastián Martínez and Benjamín Morales (3°ETP), who during the second semester dedicated themselves to finding the necessary equipment to develop the installation in an automated manner and at a more affordable cost. Bastián pointed out that the experience was gratifying "because of the teamwork with his classmates, for achieving the goal, for contributing to the service of the educational community and, above all, that, through our specialty, we can contribute to the care of the environment," he indicated.

Professor Cáceres explained that this solution not only optimizes irrigation, but also promotes the efficient use of water resources, a crucial aspect for environmental conservation.

Cáceres highlighted the importance of this project, indicating that, for the Electronics Specialty, the proposal was to develop joint work with the community, supporting local initiatives and using the students' abilities to offer a useful service for both the school and the sector. "Guiding our students in this type of project allows the specialty to not only focus on theory, but also to generate a positive impact on the community, in addition to offering them new spaces for sustainable learning, and thus contributing to the care and conservation of the environment ," said the teacher.

Experts from the National Irrigation Council also advised on this work: Andrés Coña, supervisor, and Claudio Cortés, regional coordinator.

The Ceferino Namuncurá Native Forest is in its final stage of implementation, and it is expected to be open soon to the educational community and residents of the Callejones sector. According to Professor Nicolás Ulloa, head of the Environmental Committee, all that remains is to finish building the road and placing the weed guards to inaugurate the space. From there, the second stage of the project will begin, scheduled for 2025.

This project not only represents a step forward in the conservation of local biodiversity, but also a valuable hands-on learning opportunity for students, fostering engagement with nature and the community.