Galapagos National Park Directorate has unveiled a newly upgraded Forest Nursery located on Santa Cruz Island. The nursery, named Hernan Carrion Nursery to honor the distinguished park ranger, is now open. This is a significant step in conservation efforts on the islands.
Dr. Washington Tapia is our General Director and he stressed that this initiative reaffirms Galapagos’ unique biodiversity. He said that the Galapagos Conservancy was privileged to be a part of this project which helps to maintain the diversity of plant species on the archipelago.
Ecological Restoration Projects: Role of the NGOs
Santa Cruz Tree Nursery is not only a center for the production of native and endemic plants, but it also serves as a cornerstone to conserve the unique ecosystems on the archipelago. The nursery, managed by conservationists, is vital in propagating the seedlings that are crucial for restoring ecosystems degraded by invasive species. Recovery efforts must be made immediately.
Celebrity Cruises and GNPD have partnered since 2014 to allow approximately 35,000 tourists the opportunity to plant 72,000 seedlings on 28 hectares of Santa Cruz highlands. This partnership fosters a direct connection with nature and strengthens Galapagos as a top tourist destination.
Fausto Arcos is the General Manager for Celebrity Cruises Ecuador. He said, “We’re honored that our guests participate actively in these projects. They create a connection with nature, and contribute to the sustainability of such a remarkable environment.”
Planting Hope and Knowledge on Galapagos
Hernan’s Carrion Tree Nursery is a nursery that works tirelessly to cultivate native and endemic plants essential to restoring areas. They successfully cultivate between 20 and 25 000 Galapagos native plants each year. These include the giant daisy, the white wild coffee Galapagos Croton, and Darwin’s Daisy.
The nursery also serves as an educational tool by educating visitors and locals about the importance to preserve biodiversity. This project protects Galapagos’ unique flora and promotes sustainable practices across the archipelago.
This collaboration between GNPD and Celebrity Cruises and Galapagos Conservancy is a beacon to maintain the ecological integrity of Galapagos eco-systems.
Photo: ©Galapagos Conservancy
Galapagos Protected Areas: History
Galapagos is divided into two protected areas. The Galapagos National Park was created in 1959. It covers an area of 8,720 square kilometers (20,720 sq miles), which is 97% of the land area of the archipelago. The Galapagos Islands are renowned worldwide for their exceptional biodiversity and volcanically active landscape.
In 2001, the Galapagos Marine Reserve was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It originally covered 50,000 square miles (133000 square kilometers) making it the largest marine reserve in the world. The Hermandad Marine Reserve (or “Brotherhood”) was created in 2022 to increase the marine protected area from 50,000 square miles to 76,000 square kilometers. The expansion also includes a no-take zone, responsible fishing zones, and a protection of migratory species such as whale sharks and hammerheads sharks.
Protected Areas: Their Vital Role
It is important that on the National Day of the National System of Protected Areas we highlight the vital role these protected areas play in protecting the marine and terrestrial biodiversity of Galapagos. Protected areas are not only important for conserving animal and plant species, they safeguard the natural heritage of the archipelago. They also play an important role in the wellbeing of the local communities by supporting the thriving ecotourism sector that is the backbone of the Galapagos economy.
Galapagos Sustainability Commitment
We are proud to be able to support the Galapagos National Park Directorate with its efforts to conserve and maintain the protected areas on the archipelago. Their exemplary management is a model for conservation of fragile ecosystems around the world.
We have witnessed both challenges and achievements in protecting this natural treasure. We remain committed to supporting scientific research, environmentally responsible activities and activities that encourage a sustainable relationship between people and nature on Galapagos. We are thankful for the support we receive from our donors and strategic partners. Their commitment allows us to continue our mission of protecting the Galapagos Islands.
Galapagos National Park is the first protected area of Ecuador. We celebrate the biodiversity and conservation impact on the archipelago. The National Park, established on July 4th 1989 is a sign of Ecuador’s commitment in protecting one the most unique eco-systems in the entire world.
Galapagos Conservancy is proud of the role Galapagos National Park Directorate has played in protecting World Heritage Site. Galapagos Initiative, our joint project with GNPD. This initiative has allowed us to achieve important milestones for the conservation of biodiversity and the natural beauty of this archipelago.
Washington Tapia said that GNPD was our primary ally. Washington Tapia said that the GNPD was our main ally. Without park rangers, our conservation mission would not be possible. Together, we restore eco-systems and recover species at this Natural World Heritage Site. “Park rangers are vital to conservation.”
Galapagos National Park was awarded for its outstanding management in 1978. It is a great example of how to conserve natural protected areas. It was a major factor in the development and promotion of eco-tourism. It helped to support local economies, and preserve the unique ecologies on the islands.
The Galapagos National Park is a conservation legacy that has lasted far beyond its founding. Ecuador has been taking steps to protect key species and areas in the archipelago since the 1930s. On September 8, 1978, the UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site was added. It is the first time a site has been included on such a prestigious list. Galapagos Terrestrial Area is currently 97% protected. The native wildlife and humans must live in harmony.
Galapagos Conservancy affirms its commitment to support the tireless efforts made by Galapagos Donors to preserve Galapagos’ unique ecosystems. Galapagos National Park Directorate, in collaboration with us and the generous donations from Galapagos Donors, allows us to implement conservation techniques that protect this beautiful region.
Photo: ©Galapagos Conservancy
Galapagos Conservancy has been supporting the Association of Interpretive Guides of the Galapagos National Park (AGUIPA) since 2022 to deliver the “Synergy For Well-Being And Conservation” project, led by environmental education specialist Yanex Alvarez. This project is aimed at integrating art, science and conservation to promote the well-being of children and youth in Galapagos.
Creative Science Workshops
Public Library of Puerto Ayora is the organization that brings this project to Galapagos’ youth. The project’s creative science workshops are one of its most noteworthy components. The workshops are intended to spark an interest in science concepts in children through hands-on and playful activities, thereby increasing environmental awareness. In a workshop on the El Nino, for example, children are asked to simulate temperature changes in water. They can then observe the impact of this climatic phenomenon on different parts of the globe, including Galapagos.
Field Trips
The educational program is not complete without field trips. Santa Cruz Island’s highlands offer children the chance to learn about biodiversity and the natural environment while promoting creativity and active learning. These outdoor experiences can also improve emotional wellbeing. A study of giant turtles is a good example. Children gain a new perspective on life by watching the tortoises in their natural habitat.
Bird watching and artistic workshops
Children can learn about Galapagos’ biodiversity by combining bird watching with artistic activities, such as painting and drawing the birds they observe. The participants are provided with notebooks and binoculars to learn how to identify and record different bird species. It helps them to improve their observational skills and develop a greater appreciation for wildlife.
©Galapagos Conservancy
Our Commitment to Education
We are pleased to be able to collaborate with the community via the Public Library where many educational events take place. We believe education is essential for long-term conservation, and we are committed to providing resources and support in order to continue the success of the program.
Washington Tapia is our General Director. He notes that AGUIPA’s educational project does not only train future conservationists in Galapagos, but also creates a model of innovative education that combines art, science, and environmental awareness. He said that by providing enriching educational experiences to children, AGUIPA contributes to the holistic development and commitment of future generations.
People like you, who care about the conservation and wellbeing of Galapagos, make it possible to support initiatives such as this. Your support allows projects like this to be implemented. Together, we will ensure that the children of today become the environmental guardians, prepared to face challenges with creativity and passion. Galapagos conservancy will continue to support this vital initiative, working with the community in order to preserve Galapagos, its wonders, and future generations.
Photo: ©Galapagos Conservancy
The Galapagos Islands, unlike many other areas, do not follow traditional seasonal patterns. Instead, they experience two distinct seasons, the warm, wet and humid season, which runs from December to April, and the cool, dry and windy season, which runs from June to November. The ocean currents that surround the islands play an important role in the climate and wildlife of the archipelago.
The Warm Season and Cool Season
The warm season can bring out the best in the archipelago. The landscape is covered in clear skies, radiant sunlight and temperatures between 25degC to 30degC. Warming waters are ideal for water activities like diving and snorkeling to see the marine life that is thriving, such as colorful tropical fish, majestic turtles and fascinating sharks. The vegetation on land is nourished and flourishes by torrential rainfall, which provides ideal breeding conditions for a variety of birds and terrestrial creatures. Visitors can also enjoy the opportunity to see terrestrial wildlife in its peak activity.
The cool and dry seasons are characterized by a slightly cooler climate and a more variable weather pattern. This period, also known as “dry season” and “garua,” is marked by fog or drizzle on the higher parts of the islands that alternates with clearer skies along the coast. The average daytime temperature is 23degC, with August as the coolest month. The waters are cooler than in the summer, but they are still nutrient rich, which attracts a wide variety of marine animals, including whales and dolphins. The Galapagos Islands are also more peaceful and less crowded during this season, which allows you to enjoy the abundant marine and terrestrial wildlife.
Photo: ©Galápagos Conservancy
Impact of seasonal changes on conservation efforts
Dr. Michael S. Dr. S. has a lot of important information about the impact of seasonal variation on conservation efforts in the archipelago. Dr. Jorge Carrion is the Director of Conservation for Galapagos Conservancy. He highlights that while the warm season promotes reproduction, it also coincides with increased tourism. Tourism must be managed in a way that protects breeding animals.
The seasons also have a direct impact on the planning of conservation efforts and expeditions. The climatic conditions are taken into consideration when park rangers, conservation authorities, and scientists perform ecological monitoring. This ensures the effectiveness of conservation operations in helping to mitigate human impacts on ecosystems throughout the year.
Galapagos: The resilience of life
Galapagos’s dramatic seasonal changes are a testament to its unique flora, and the adaptability and resilience of the island. Galapagos’ species are able to adapt to its changing climatic conditions and environmental challenges. We can contribute to the conservation and protection of the Galapagos Archipelago by recognizing the seasonal variations that affect many species, and the patterns of tourism.
Photo: ©Galápagos Conservancy
The Board of Directors of Galapagos Conservation (GC) toured the Galapagos Islands in order to assess the effects and progress of conservation projects that were funded and implemented by this organization. The Board of Directors of Galapagos Conservancy (GC) visited the Galapagos Islands to evaluate the progress and effects of conservation projects funded and implemented by the organization.
The visit included meetings with partner organizations. One meeting was held at the Galapagos National Park Directorate to review the progress, success, and future needs for projects funded by GC and managed by DPNG. The partners reaffirmed that they would work closely with the park rangers in order to contribute to the recovery and survival of Galapagos’ threatened species.
The board also conducted a protocol to the Charles Darwin Foundation with whom GC is currently cooperating through a major grant project for a monitoring marine ecosystem. The Charles Darwin Foundation invited the GC Board to its research station. They also gave a brief overview of the marine project funded by CDF and showed them the impressive collections of plants and vertebrates. GC Board Members, many of whom were new to the organization appreciated the chance to learn more and expand the partnership with the Charles Darwin Foundation.
During the visit, Board Members also toured the Agency for the Regulation and Control of Biosecurity and Quarantine for Galapagos. They were impressed by Galapagos Conservancy ‘s commitment to helping ABG control and eliminate invasive species. GC Board Members fully understand the importance of ABG’s initiative and support it. Jean-Pierre Cadena (ABG’s Executive director) highlighted the importance of Galapagos Conservancy actively participating in the fight against invasive species.
Photo: ©ABG
The Board’s active participation in the second Conservation Actions Fair was another highlight of their visit. The Galapagos Conservancy funded many community projects at this event. The fair featured booths operated by a variety of beneficiaries, such as male and female entrepreneurs and partner institutions, like the Galapagos National Park Directorate and the Agency for the Regulation and Control of Biosecurity and Quarantine for Galapagos. The fair featured a cultural show featuring local artists that strengthened the attendees’ commitment to protect and promote sustainable development in Galapagos.
The Board visited Floreana island, where they learned about the efforts being made to eradicate rats and cats on the island. This is in preparation for the introduction of Giant Tortoises as part of GC’s Iniciativa Galapagos Program next year. The Board met with the first WISE awardee on the island. This island has approximately 150 residents, and 30 students and adolescents. The project involves the establishment of the first public library on the island, and was made possible by donations from Board members.
Photo: ©Galápagos Conservancy
Since its founding in 1985, Galapagos Conservancy is dedicated exclusively to the protection of the Galapagos Islands. Every two years, the Board of Directors travels to Galapagos to evaluate and monitor conservation efforts. Dr. Dan Sherman emphasized that we are proud to work closely with our partners and support the implementation of local conservation efforts. He also reaffirmed his commitment to work towards the recovery and restoration of habitats, as well as the development of sustainable Galapagos communities.