By Gabriel Espasas | President, PHA Forest Board
Quarterly Update
As the third quarter draws to a close, we remain committed to the long-term preservation and accessibility of the Pterocarpus Forest. This rare ecosystem continues to inspire visitors, volunteers, and donors alike, even as it faces persistent challenges—and new opportunities.
Strengthening Educational Impact
Our environmental education efforts remain steady and visible:
We continue to average 12–14 educational posts per month across Instagram and Facebook, along with 8–10 interactive stories featuring the Forest’s biodiversity.
The Forest Catalogue on iNaturalist now includes 2,553 observations, documenting 369 distinct species of flora, fauna, fungi, and other organisms that inhabit the 52-acre preserve. This growing inventory reflects both the richness of the Forest and the dedication of researchers and citizen scientists contributing to its long-term study and protection. View the Catalogue: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/catalogo-de-organismos-del-bosque-de-pterocarpus
On-site, we’ve begun the process of evaluating and updating more than 50 educational and advisory signs throughout the Forest. Many have weathered years of tropical sun and rain; some have been damaged by vandalism. These include interpretative panels, visitor guidance, and general information displays.
We are currently completing a full inventory and assessing where signage needs to be repaired, replaced, or improved to support safety and better communicate the Forest’s ecological value. This will be a significant investment, but one that reflects our continued commitment to public education and a quality visitor experience.
Cautious Progress on the Ground
While several infrastructure challenges remain unresolved—including the prolonged closures of a few, short sections of the boardwalk and the observation tower—there are signs of renewed collaboration with the Palmas Homeowners’ Association (PHA). That collaboration is vital for the Pterocarpus Forest volunteer Board to keep the project healthy.
Recent changes in PHA leadership have opened the door to more productive communication and availability of funds for repairs and maintenance as there is growing alignment around the importance of long-term stewardship and clearer understanding of the PHA-Forest-Para la Naturaleza relationship.
Some small but meaningful improvements have taken place: repairs to the concrete sidewalks leading to the Forest were completed, and new solar-powered security cameras have been installed to help deter vandalism.
Behind the scenes we are working on securing bids that will allow for the reopening of the Observation Tower, aeration of the Forest pond and improvements to the elevated boardwalk. Our timeline is to see a new improved Forest in time for the holidays.
Looking Ahead: Help Us Build a Strong GivingTuesday
On Tuesday, December 2, the Pterocarpus Forest will participate for the 5th consecutive year in GivingTuesday, a global day of generosity that has become a cornerstone of our year-end fundraising.
Your support during this campaign will help sustain the Forest’s vital work—from educational outreach and on-site improvements to volunteer stewardship and public advocacy. This year, we hope to raise the visibility of the Forest and show new donors that it’s a project worth believing in.
Your gift—large or small—here on GlobalGiving helps us protect this rare ecosystem and keep it open, safe, and meaningful for all who visit. Mark your calendar and stand with us once again this GivingTuesday.
Why Your Support Still Matters
Every educational post, every new sign, and every step forward in advocacy is powered by donors like you. Your support directly funds:
The Forest’s future depends on all of us—on patience, persistence, and a belief that this extraordinary place can not only survive, but thrive.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Donate Now https://pterocarpus.org/support-us/
Links:
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