Galapagos Conservancy is deeply committed to the preservation of the archipelago’s unique biodiversity. In order to achieve this mission we work closely with the Galapagos National Park Directorate as well as the local community in several key projects that address urgent conservation needs. We visited Isabela Island recently to evaluate the progress and accomplishments of our partnership, as well as strategize the next phases of efforts.
Protecting and restoring the Heart-leaved Scalesia Forests
We visited the Forest Nursery of the Galapagos National Park, which had been fully revitalized. The nursery is now vital in restoring the heartleafed Scalesia forests ( Scalesia Cordata ) on southern Isabela Island. This species only exists in this area. The nursery was revitalized along with a retrofitted housing facility that provides park rangers and scientists a dry, safe place to stay on site for the continuous monitoring and propagation the heart-leafed Scalesia.
The beautiful tree that once covered the southern Isabela Island volcanoes of Sierra Negra, Cerro Azul and other volcanic peaks is almost extinct. The nursery is now filled with heart-leafed Scalesia seeds, a powerful sign of hope for Galapagos’ forests. These plants are growing, which is a clear sign that our restoration efforts have been successful. They promise a brighter tomorrow for the heart-leafed Scalesia, and the unique ecosystem in which it was once a key component.
Tortoise Breeding Center Improvements
Our team visited the Arnaldo Tupaz Chamaidan Tortoise Breeding Center, located in Puerto Villamil. Here giant tortoises were bred to be reintroduced into their natural habitats mainly on southern Isabela Island. We evaluated the performance and efficiency of the Galapagos Conservancy’s state-of the-art incubators for tortoise eggs. These continue to function flawlessly, producing hundreds of hatchlings every year. The center’s infrastructure was also examined, and we identified the need for urgent roof repairs as well as upgrades to its electrical system. The improvements will be funded through our efforts and ensure that the center is a safe, efficient place for the propagation two species of Isabela Island giant tortoises.
Continued Collaboration for Conservation
Galapagos Conservancy, in collaboration with the Galapagos National Park Directorate, has made it possible to undertake projects such as the restoration and breeding of giant tortoises and Scalesia trees. Together, we work to not only protect endangered species, but also to restore the ecosystems that they call home.
Our director, Dr. Washington Tapia emphasizes that “collaboration is crucial for the success our initiatives.” Working closely with the Galapagos National Park Directorate ensures a future in which conservation and human well-being go hand in glove.
We are proud of our collaboration with the park rangers, and we value their support in preserving Galapagos. We rely on donations to continue projects such as those on Isabela. This ensures that our efforts have a direct effect on protecting the fragile natural heritage. Galapagos, with your support, will continue to demonstrate how conservation benefits both nature and communities who depend on it.
