Washington Tapia stated that maintenance and addition works at the nursery were of great importance. The seedlings are grown in the greenhouse, then replanted later as part of restoration project, such as Los Gemelos’ unique Scalesia Forest. The new plantings restore ecosystem dynamics and provide shelter, food and other resources for threatened species such as finches and vermilion flycatchers.
A joint initiative by Celebrity Cruises Galapagos Conservancy and the GNPD, which began in 2014, will enable the expansion of restoration projects for and other unique species on the Archipelago. Celebrity Flora guests are currently participating in weekly tree-plantings in Los Gemelos.
Celebrity Xpedition & Xploration guests will be able soon to participate in conservation efforts, helping to preserve the Galapagos Islands as a top eco-tourist destination. This activity will increase their positive impact and legacy on the area.
Fausto Arcos is the General Manager for Celebrity Cruises Ecuador. He highlighted the company’s commitment to conservation, and to the local community. Arcos also stressed the importance of giving guests and collaborators the opportunity to be involved in these important efforts, which foster direct contact with the nature in this pristine part of the world.
Danny Rueda stated that planned maintenance work at the nursery will facilitate improved plant propagation techniques by park rangers. These actions will help to ensure that restoration efforts are successful and allow park rangers do their jobs more efficiently.
Santa Cruz Nursery produces between 20,000 and 25,000 seedlings per year. These include Scalesias, Darwin’s Giant Daisys, Galapagos Crotons, Coffee Sennas, Darwin’s Giant Daisys, etc. Jibson Valle is a GNPD Park Ranger. He said: “I have loved plants ever since I was a child, and I am proud to work in this nursery to conserve Galapagos’ key species .”
Santa Cruz’s forest nursery plays a vital role in conservation and restoration efforts in Galapagos. Its upgrade will enhance this contribution. Galapagos Celebrity Cruises Fund’s support for conservation efforts like these exemplifies the way tourism can be sustainable and educational for visitors.
Galapagos Conservancy is looking forward to its continued partnership and involvement with Celebrity Cruises, including the guests and employees of Celebrity Cruises in our conservation and local community initiatives. Construkgal, an indigenous company, was represented by Alfonso Criollo in signing the contract to maintain the nursery.
