The four trips that our team has made in the departments of Loreto and Ucayali have given us a good current snapshot of conditions relative to the sustainability of ayahuasca vine. A great deal of cultivation is currently underway, and many of those with whom we spoke believe that cultivation is the only sustainable way forward. But for now, it appears that the supply of vine in the forest is sufficient to meet current demand.
In choosing to assess the sustainability of ayahuasca vine in Loreto and Ucayali departments, I have taken on a project that has no end. It is my hope that the work we have undertaken thus far will serve as a foundation for others. Because ayahuasca is popular, and because export of ayahuasca brew is a significant trade, pressure on wild populations of ayahuasca vine will likely continue. At the same time, cultivation is increasing, and I believe that we will witness a great deal more of this over the next few years.