TNC is an international organization devoted to preserving plants, animals and communities in their natural conditions and which represent the biodiversity found in our planet.  Together with local organizations, it has established alliances aimed at protecting land and maritime eco-systems which are fundamental for future sustainability of life worldwide. These activities bring forth the creation of sustainable programs directed toward ensuring appropriate management and use of the environment.

TNC has been working jointly with Fundación Páramo in developing several biologically and economically sustainable programs in order to ensure the protection of the Upper Basin of the River Pita. These programs include improved community facilities, training of inhabitants and control of protected areas.

The Cotopaxi National Park was created in July 26, 1979. It is located within the provinces of Cotopaxi, Pichincha and Napo, comprising 33,393 hectares. It contains moorlands and Andean forests, to a large degree, with significant volcanic characteristics, and which is home to a large variety of mammals, birds and endemic species; among them, deer, páramo wolves, wild rabbits, masked bears, pumas, dwarf harts, marsupial mice, red spade sparrow hawks, curiquingues, lizards, jambato frogs, preñadillas, hummingbirds, llamas and condors.

The Park comprises the El Boliche recreation area and a great pine trees forest, animal reserves and camping sites. Some of the Park’s tourist attractions are lakes such as that of Limpiopungo and Santo Domingo; summits such as Rumiñahui (4,757 masl) and the snow-capped Cotopaxi (5.897 masl) and its shelter that is open year-round.

Some activities can be carried out in the Park, outstandingly trekking, excursions, mountain climbing, sports fishing and getting acquainted with the rich flora and fauna.

Fundación Páramo, jointly with several organizations, has worked for the Cotopaxi National Park with actions focused on protecting the several habitats. Programs are being sponsored concerning rules and regulations, identification of control systems, chats with dwellers and hacienda owners, training of rangers, reconstruction and improvement of facilities, agreements to assume responsibility for fixed and other assets by PNC directors, among other.