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.
