By Ing. Gabriel Espasas | President, PHA Pterocarpus Forest, Inc.
As we reflect on the five months since our last report, we are reminded of the many ways the Pterocarpus Forest has continued to serve as a vital natural sanctuary, despite unforeseen challenges. From addressing storm-related impacts to navigating a hopefully temporary closures, these months have underscored the importance of the Forest to Palmas and beyond. Thanks to your steadfast support, we’ve made meaningful progress in conservation, education, and outreach. This report provides a snapshot of those efforts and looks ahead to the opportunities that lie before us.
Celebrating a Milestone Achievement: The Catalogue of Pterocarpus Forest Organisms
Earlier this year, we proudly announced the publication of the Catalogue of Pterocarpus Forest Organisms, one of the most significant milestones in our efforts to document the incredible biodiversity of the Forest’s 51 acres. This evolving inventory showcases the plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms that make the Forest so unique, and it stands as a testament to the dedication of researchers, students, and supporters like you.
This achievement is particularly poignant considering the challenges we’ve faced. It underscores the importance of preserving knowledge about this extraordinary ecosystem, and we remain deeply grateful for your contributions, which have made this possible.
Challenges
On August 12, Tropical Storm Ernesto struck the island, causing significant damage to the Forest’s natural ecosystem and infrastructure. Fallen trees and branches rendered the elevated boardwalk impassable, necessitating a temporary closure for cleanup.
In late October, after the Forest had reopened after Ernesto, the Palmas del Mar Homeowners Association (PHA) closed the reserve. It has remained inaccessible since. While we have received no official word from PHA regarding the closure, we are working diligently to resolve the situation and are confident that the Forest will reopen soon.
Continuing to Build Community: Other Initiatives
GivingTuesday 2024
On December 3rd, we participated in GivingTuesday, raising just over $10,000 thanks to the generosity of supporters like you. The results of this global day of philanthropy demonstrate the power of community in sustaining the Forest’s mission.
New QR Code-Based Virtual Tour
In early October we introduced a 19-stop interpretative signage program along the Forest boardwalk. Visitors can now access engaging audio-visual content via QR codes, enhancing their understanding of the Forest’s fascinating features. This initiative replaces the outdated “Forest Tour” app with a modern, interactive experience.
Expanding Access to Giving: ATH Móvil
We launched ATH Móvil Donate, making it easier than ever for supporters in Puerto Rico to contribute to the Forest. This platform has already proven invaluable, as evidenced by the enthusiastic participation during GivingTuesday.
Social Media Engagement
We revitalized the popular “Did you know…?” (“¿Sabía usted…?”) series, sharing fascinating facts, stunning visuals, and engaging stories about the Forest with our growing online community. If you haven’t already, follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected and inspired.
Looking Ahead
Our commitment to the Pterocarpus Forest as a living classroom for environmental education, passive recreation, and scientific research remains steadfast. The challenges we’ve faced this year have only strengthened our determination to ensure that this precious ecosystem endures for generations to come.
Your support inspires us every step of the way. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the Forest, and for being an integral part of our community. Together, we are safeguarding this extraordinary gift for the future.
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