Page 5 – Eye on the Rainforest

by thrity August 14, 2024

Teenagers roll up their sleeves! Summer 2024

Welcoming teens from all over the USA

Ellington School, Connecticut – April 7, 2024

On April 7th, we had the pleasure of hosting 23 enthusiastic teenagers and their dedicated staff from Ellington School, Connecticut, who arrived through Vamonos Travel. Led by 3t, this energetic group rolled up their sleeves and got to work on a variety of essential tasks. They meticulously weeded the Garcinia portoricensis endangered endemic trees in the nurseries, trimmed vetiver, and even established a small tree nursery. Fueled by Chef Monique’s delicious meals, these teens made a lasting contribution to the health and future of our forest, leaving behind a well-tended landscape and a budding nursery that will continue to grow for years to come.

Aspen School, Colorado – May 4, 2024

On May 4th, 15 spirited teenagers from Aspen School, Colorado, along with their staff, joined us for a day of hard work and camaraderie, thanks to Globalworks International. Under the guidance of crew leader Professor George Locascio, and nourished by Chef Monique’s meals, the group took on the challenging task of digging drainage ditches and maintaining trails. Their efforts helped to improve the resilience of our forest’s infrastructure, ensuring that our trails and paths can withstand the elements for seasons to come. Their dedication and teamwork made a significant impact on the landscape, leaving it more secure and better prepared for the future.

Hood River New School, Oregon – June 17-19, 2024

From June 17th to 19th, 23 passionate teenagers and staff from Hood River New School, Oregon, brought their enthusiasm and energy to our forest, with Globalworks International facilitating their visit. During their stay, they focused on planting a variety of important tree species, including Goetzea elegans, Cobana Negra, and Swietenia aubrevilleana. Led by 3t and sustained by Chef Monique’s nourishing meals, these teens left behind more than just newly planted trees—they contributed to the future biodiversity and ecological health of our forest. Their commitment to nurturing the land was inspiring, and their efforts will be felt for generations.

Thank you to Globalworks International and Vamonos Travel and their amazing crew leaders. These teams take the teenagers all over the island of Puerto Rico, to engage in meaninful projects. We salute them!

Artist Residency

by thrity June 25, 2024

Wood-Artist Residency @ Las Casas de la Selva, July 2024

by thrity March 20, 2024

A decade of collaboration!

A week to remember: Fountain Valley School’s annual visit to Las Casas de la Selva

Every year, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Fountain Valley School of Colorado to Las Casas de la Selva in Patillas, Puerto Rico. This year marked over a decade of collaboration, learning, and growth—a true testament to the strong bond between our two communities. As we reflect on this past week, our hearts are filled with gratitude and joy for the hard work, laughter, and memories shared.
10-15th March 2024

Unity and achievement: more than just a visit

This week was a blend of effort, enjoyment, and education. Under the warm Puerto Rican sun, we worked alongside an incredible group of teenagers from Fountain Valley School. They showed remarkable enthusiasm and dedication in every task, contributing significantly to our environmental and community projects.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Suzanne Tibbets and Blake Pelton, the dedicated school staff members who guided and cared for these amazing teens throughout their stay. Their leadership and support were pivotal in making this experience a success for everyone involved.

Culinary delights and teamwork

We extend our gratitude to Monique Nieves for providing delicious and nutritious meals that fueled our days. Her culinary skills kept everyone happy, healthy, and ready for the day’s challenges. A special shout-out to Mercury for his invaluable assistance in the kitchen and with various crew-work tasks—your help was indispensable.

Celebrations and learning experiences

One of the week’s highlights was a musical birthday celebration, featuring the talents of guitarist Andrés Rúa, and flautists Nina Assimakopoulous, and Raquel Torres-Arzola. Their beautiful music added a magical touch to our evening, which was also a birthday for two of the students, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you for sharing your artistry with us.

We also extend our thanks to Andrés Rúa and Joerge Jahn for their engaging woodworking show and tells. These sessions were not only educational but also inspiring, offering a hands-on experience in craftsmanship and highlighting sustainability.

Environmental impact

Throughout the week, our collective efforts focused on environmental conservation and improvement. Together, we planted trees in various areas, including in an area affected by a landslide, cleared and organized the nursery, potted 250 vetiver slips, cleared invasive vines from a new planting of vetiver, and dug a significant trench for a new retaining wall at the lower homestead. Each of these tasks is vital to our ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the natural beauty of Las Casas de la Selva.

Heartfelt appreciation

As we say goodbye to another memorable visit, we want to express our deepest gratitude to each individual who contributed to this special week. Your hard work, enthusiasm, and spirit of cooperation have left a lasting impact on our community and the environment. To the students and staff of Fountain Valley School of Colorado: thank you for continuing this wonderful tradition. Your visits are a highlight of our year, and we look forward to many more to come. Here’s to the next decade of friendship, growth, and making a difference together!

School Groups Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity March 20, 2024

Overnighters! March 2024

Democracy Prep at the Agassi Campus (DPAC) students joined us for one day and night and helped with the movement of 300 concrete blocks, an activity that required not only physical strength but also teamwork and coordination. It was a sight to behold as students, teachers, and community volunteers worked side by side, their efforts synchronized in a dance of collaboration. The blocks they moved were heavy and the sun unforgiving, but the spirit of determination and camaraderie among the students made the challenge surmountable.

The other task was to clear up one of the garden areas that received all the clay and broken rubble from a path building earlier this year! This group went at it and transformed the place! Thank you all for your hard work. This garden is being prepared for the planting of some rare endemic species.

Our students ate very well, thanks to Monique Nieves, who delighted us with fine cuisine! Thank you to Mercury, who took the students to the river and made a fire for them to enjoy at night. Thanks to school staff Lesley (who came last year!), Toy, and Armando.

Appreciations to Vamonos staff for getting the group here safely: Mayra, Cruz, and Roberto.

School Groups Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity March 13, 2024

Many Hands! March 2024

In early March 2024, a group of twenty-nine students, aged 13 to 14, from the Principia School in Missouri, joined us for a few days. They actively participated in our projects under favorable dry weather conditions, allowing us to make significant progress. The Principia School is a private, coeducational institution focused on college preparatory education, offering innovative programs from early childhood through twelfth grade.

We want to express our heartfelt thanks for the wonderful time we had together and for all the help provided.

Special appreciation goes to John, Ben, Lauren, and Lyndsey from the Principia staff, who expertly and kindly supervised the students. Their fair and effective management made our collaboration smooth and productive. Additionally, we’re grateful to Vamonos staff members Cruz, Mayra, and Roberto for their enjoyable and energetic participation.

In just one afternoon and a day, the team accomplished numerous tasks:

What a great group!!

3t led the work crew, with assistance from Mercury.

Mercury also supported Monique Nieves in preparing meals, contributing to the delightful dining experiences.

Our sincere thanks to Monique Stauder for capturing and sharing the final images of our time together.

This collective effort and the spirit of cooperation made our time together not only productive but also memorable. Thank you to everyone involved! 5th-7th March 2024

Globalworks Globalworks Teams School Groups Service work Tree planting Volunteers

by thrity March 1, 2024

Tree-planting! Feb 2024

In February 2024, we were fortunate to host a vibrant group of thirteen-year-olds from Cathedral Middle School for Boys in San Francisco. Under the dedicated guidance of Chris Corrigan, Maddie, and Steve, these young students embarked on an enlightening journey into the world of environmental stewardship.

Their invaluable contribution to planting mahogany saplings, cacao, coffee, and vetiver has made a significant positive impact on our environment.

Tree-planting on landslide caused by Hurricane Fiona

They worked in the rain and saw first-hand the impact of Hurricane Fiona’s devasting dump of water in September 2022, which caused the landslides that we worked on. We planted Mahogany (Swietenia aubrevilleana) saplings, grown from our own seeds, in June 2022.

Among the many activities, one aspect that stood out was their engagement with our compost toilets! This experience was more than just a lesson in sustainability; it became a source of inspiration for these young minds. The students quickly adapted to this eco-friendly practice, understanding the importance of water conservation and waste reduction. Their enthusiasm and willingness to embrace such sustainable living practices were both impressive and heartwarming. The use of compost toilets served as a practical introduction to the principles of ecological responsibility and closed-loop systems.

It was inspiring to see the students not only accept but also appreciate the value of these sustainable practices. They learned firsthand how such small changes in daily habits can significantly impact our environment. Thanks to Thomas for his note.

Special thanks are due not only to the ever-supportive Chris Corrigan but also to the dedicated school staff—Chris, Steve, Maddie—and Globalworks Leader Rebe, who all played pivotal roles in facilitating this transformative experience. Their collective efforts have undoubtedly sown the seeds of environmental consciousness in the hearts of these young individuals.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone involved in making this experience a reality. The students of Cathedral Middle School for Boys have left our community richer, not just through their physical contributions to our reforestation efforts but also by reinforcing our hope for a more sustainable and conscious future.

The Cathedral School for Boys prioritizes diversity in ethnicity, race, and socioeconomic status, along with an experiential education focused on service. This ethos of diversity and experiential learning is integral to their curriculum and is bolstered by their tuition assistance program. It is this foundation that facilitated the recent educational trip to Las Casas. The excursion included students from various economic backgrounds, including those on reduced or subsidized tuition, reflecting the school community’s shared commitment to its values. This commitment enables students, particularly those from urban backgrounds, to experience and learn about conservation in the rainforest firsthand, thereby broadening their perspectives and potential life paths.

Huge gratitude to Monique Nieves whose culinary expertise provided us with delicious meals, fueling our days with energy and warmth. Additionally, a big thank you to the talented artist Mercury, whose volunteer efforts and all-around assistance have been invaluable to our cause.

Here’s to more visits, more learning, and more inspiration. Together, we are cultivating a greener, more sustainable world, one young heart at a time. 27-29 Feb 2024

BGCI Botany Conference Conservation Horticulture Talks

by thrity February 24, 2024

Cartagena, Colombia Feb 2024

Notes from 3t: I have returned from the heart of Cartagena with renewed vigor and a treasure trove of insights. The Botanical Bridges Congress was not just a gathering; it was a clarion call to those of us dedicated to preserving the rich tapestry of plant diversity in the Caribbean and Central American region. This area, a cradle of unparalleled botanical wealth, hosts species that whisper the ancient tales of our planet’s green heritage, many of which find sanctuary nowhere else on Earth.

Yet, as we stand witness to the relentless threats of habitat destruction, invasive species encroachment, and the ever-looming specter of climate change, the urgency to act becomes ever more pressing. It is within this crucible of challenge that the power of collaboration shines through. The Congress underscored the indispensable role of forging and nurturing connections across the spectrum of institutions dedicated to plant conservation—a united front in the battle to protect our green legacy.

This year’s Botanical Bridges Congress, a testament to the collaborative spirit encouraged by the Caribbean and Central American Botanic Gardens Network (CCABGN) alongside past and present host organizations and the stalwart support of Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), was a melting pot of ideas, strategies, and shared dreams. The partnership forged in 2019 between Naples Botanical Garden (NBG) and BGCI, further strengthened by the appointment of a dedicated coordinator in 2022, exemplifies the collective commitment to bolstering the botanic garden community’s role in our region’s conservation efforts.

My contribution to this grand dialogue was a presentation entitled “Resilience in the Face of Natural Disasters: Conservation Efforts and Challenges for Endangered Endemic Species at Eye On The Rainforest,” aimed at casting a spotlight on the critical yet often overlooked aspect of our work: the resilience and recovery of ecosystems in the aftermath of natural calamities, such as 2017’s Hurricane Maria, and 2022’s Hurricane Fiona. Sharing our experiences and lessons learned, we delve into the essence of what it means to protect and nurture the fragile bastions of biodiversity that are endemic species.

The congress was an extraordinary confluence of minds and missions, and my heart is full of gratitude for our gracious hosts, Santiago Madrinan and Maria Contreras, leaders of Jardín Botánico de Cartagena “Guillermo Piñeres, and their diligent and extremely fun team of students from the university. Their hospitality and meticulous planning set the stage for a truly impactful gathering. The food was spectacular!

3t with Santiago Madrinan and Maria Contreras

Special thanks are also due to Chad Washburn (NBG), Noelia Alvarez (BGCI), Lina Ramirez (BGCI), and Andrew Wyatt (Missouri Botanical Gardens), whose support made my participation possible, covering the logistical necessities that often pose barriers to sharing our voices and visions. Also, thanks to Patricia Malcolm (BGCI), who has been key in accepting our proposals for continued work with endangered endemic species in Puerto Rico.

As I reflect on the experiences of the past five days, the conversations, the learning, and the shared commitment to our cause, I am filled with hope. I have met some wonderful people here. Together, under the banner of #BotanicalBridges, we move forward, united in our dedication to plant conservation and the belief that, through collaboration, we can secure the future of our planet’s botanical wonders for generations to come.

Thank you all!!

School Groups Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity February 24, 2024

NC School of Science & Math Jan 2024

In an inspiring display of youthful vigor and environmental stewardship, a group of enthusiastic teen students from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics took part in a tree-planting event today, aimed at revitalizing an area affected by the landslides from Hurricane Fiona. This heartening initiative not only symbolizes a step towards ecological restoration but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and community service.

A special shoutout to Vámonos Tours for ensuring the safe arrival of these intrepid young environmentalists to the site. Their commitment to facilitating such impactful experiences is truly commendable and was pivotal in making today’s activity possible.

The day was buzzing with energy and anticipation as the students, equipped with shovels and saplings, were ready to get their hands dirty for a noble cause. Guiding their efforts in the field were the dynamic duo, 3t and Karim Emir, whose passion for environmental conservation was infectious. Their leadership not only educated the students on the importance of reforestation but also instilled in them a deeper respect for nature and its delicate balances.

Back at the base, the culinary wizards, Monique Nieves and Mercury, were hard at work in the kitchen, preparing a feast to nourish the hardworking volunteers. Their dedication to keeping spirits high and stomachs full added a warm and communal atmosphere to the day’s efforts, making the experience even more memorable for everyone involved.

Today’s tree-planting event is a vibrant testament to what can be achieved when young minds and caring hearts come together for the greater good. It’s a reminder that every action towards restoring our planet counts and that the younger generation is ready and willing to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in today’s success, especially Vámonos Tours, for their flawless logistics and unwavering support. Together, we’ve taken a significant step in healing the scars left by Hurricane Fiona, planting seeds of hope and growth for years to come. Here’s to many more such initiatives, where we can all come together to make a difference, one tree at a time!

School Groups Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers Wastewater Garden

by thrity February 23, 2024

Susquehanna University, Jan 2024

Susquehanna University (Pennsylvania) students worked hard to reclaim the homestead gardens from invasive vines, clear and prune the Wastewater garden, and create a new nursery area. It has been a joy to have them live with us for three days, and share work, meals, fun, and an electrical issue! Thank you for volunteering. What a great team. Thanks to Monique Nieves, for the fine cuisine, and to Mercury, Karim Emir, and Paula Isabel for their valuable assistance. Thanks to Vamonos Tours for getting this group here safely, and to Vamonos group leader Joseph, for his enthusiasm and love.

BGCI Botany Conservation Horticulture

by thrity February 22, 2024

Conservation in Patillas, Jan 2024

In the realm of botanical conservation, Thrity (3t) Vakil, serving as the director of Tropic Ventures Research & Education Foundation (TVREF), has been at the forefront of a significant project aimed at safeguarding endangered endemic tree species in Puerto Rico. Under her leadership, TVREF, in collaboration with Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) and the Global Tree Campaign (GTC), embarked on an ambitious initiative to conserve two of Puerto Rico’s threatened endemic tree species: Palo de Cruz, Garcinia portoricensis (Clusiaceae) and Tortugo Prieto Ravenia urbani (Rutaceae).

The conservation project’s genesis can be traced back to 2021, when the Naples Botanical Garden in Florida secured a grant from the Association of Zoological Horticulture. This funding was pivotal for constructing a new tree nursery at Las Casas de la Selva in Patillas, Puerto Rico, addressing a critical need following the destruction wrought by Hurricane Maria in 2017, which decimated the existing tree nurseries. The partnership with BGCI and the GTC, formalized through a 2021 agreement, significantly enhanced the project’s scope and potential impact.

Garcinia portoricensis is growing in the nursery at Las Casas de la Selva. Dec 2023

3T brought together a world-class multidisciplinary team of specialists in various fields, including plant and tree sciences, ecology, agronomy, biology, taxonomy, bryology, pteridology, mycology, lepidoptery, lichenology, and zoology.

The team was tasked with advancing the project’s objectives within the 930-acre forest property in the southeast mountains of Puerto Rico, adjacent to the Carite State Forest, known as Las Casas de la Selva. This property, established in 1983, is recognized as a certified stewardship forest and operates under an approved forest stewardship management plan. It is designated as an auxiliary forest. The team also carried out botanical expeditions to other areas on the island of Puerto Rico.

The project, under 3T’s guidance, has updated conservation assessments, mapped populations, established an ex-situ collection, created propagation protocols, and will implement in-situ conservation programs. Educational initiatives targeting local schools and the development of an integrated action plan for national authorities are also key components of the project’s strategy.

3T’s leadership in this collaborative conservation effort stands as a testament to the potential for positive impact on the preservation of endangered endemic trees in Puerto Rico. As 2024 progresses, the collective efforts of TVREF, BGCI, NBG, GTC, and other partner organizations are poised to contribute significantly to the long-term survival of Garcinia portoricensis and Ravenia urbani, securing their legacy for future generations. January 2024

Thrity Vakil & Amelia Merced extracting seeds from the seed cases of *Ravenia urbani*

Links:

Securing the conservation of endemic trees in Puerto Rico

Eye on the Rainforest’s Conservation Endeavors in Puerto Rico | Botanic Gardens Conservation International (bgci.org)

Meet three Naples Botanical Garden partners to understand the environmental pressures they face, the ways in which they are striving to make a difference, and why NBG champions their causes. September 2021. Go to Pages 16-18, to read about the work we are doing with endangered endemics
Conserve Magazine Pages 16-18.pdf

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