35 Years Ago, The Founder of North Face Bought Millions of Acres in South America. It Led to the ‘Largest Private Land Donation in History’

**Legacy of Conservation: The Tompkins’ Impact on South America’s National Parks**

Douglas Tompkins and his wife, Kristine, have made significant contributions to conservation in South America, leading to the establishment of numerous national parks throughout Chile and Argentina. Their journey began decades ago when they began acquiring land in the region, culminating in what is regarded as the largest private land donation in history.

The story of Douglas Tompkins is intertwined with the founding of The North Face, a renowned outdoor clothing brand. After launching the company with a single store in San Francisco in 1966, Tompkins decided to shift his focus towards environmental conservation in 1990, moving to Patagonia in southern Chile. This decision reflected his desire to “pay rent for his time on the planet,” a motto referenced by his non-profit organisation, Tompkins Conservation.

In the early 1990s, Kristine Tompkins joined her husband in this conservation endeavour. Together, they acquired approximately 2.2 million acres of land, establishing several charitable organisations aimed at protecting these pristine landscapes. One of their most notable achievements was the creation of Pumalín Park, which was later renamed Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park in 2018. This area is considered to be the world’s largest private nature reserve.

Tragically, Douglas Tompkins passed away in a kayaking accident in 2015, at the age of 72, while navigating Lago General Carrera in Chile. Following his death, Kristine made the heartfelt decision to donate much of the land they had worked to protect to the Chilean government. In a revealing interview with NPR in 2017, she spoke about her motivation for this generous act, expressing a deep-seated belief in the importance of public parks. “We grew up within the national parks here in the United States,” she said, “and there is a sense of ownership by every American… that those are public parks. They belong to everybody. And Chile is no different.”

In 2019, Kristine Tompkins officially handed over Pumalín and Patagonia Parks to the Chilean government, marking a historic moment in which the couple’s efforts solidified the largest private land donation recorded. This monumental occasion was celebrated at a ceremony held in Pumalín Douglas Tompkins Park, highlighting the significance of their work for future generations.

Beyond the creation of these parks, the Tompkins have left an indelible mark on the region’s environmental landscape. Reports indicate that their initiatives have contributed to the establishment of 15 national parks across Chile and Argentina, along with two marine parks, protecting approximately 14.8 million acres of land and 30 million acres of ocean. This extensive conservation effort signifies a commitment to preserving the delicate ecosystems of South America.

As Kristine continues her husband’s legacy, she remains dedicated to environmental activism and the promotion of sustainable practices. Her involvement illustrates the couple’s long-standing belief that economic development can stem from conservation efforts, ensuring that natural treasures are safeguarded for the enjoyment of future generations.

The impact of the Tompkins family on South American conservation cannot be overstated. Their vision and unyielding dedication offer a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting the environment. Through their work, they have not only honoured Douglas Tompkins’s legacy but have also paved the way for a brighter, more sustainable future in South America.

In an age where environmental challenges continue to escalate, the Tompkins’ story serves as an inspiration. Their commitment highlights the significance of individual efforts in the larger movement for environmental preservation. As we face pressing ecological crises, the ethos of the Tompkins serves as a call to action, urging others to contribute to the conservation of our planet. Through their legacy, the Tompkins continue to influence the discourse on conservation, underscoring that it is possible to create meaningful change through dedication and vision.