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Botany Education Environment Events Friends of Las Casas de la Selva Fungi Talks
 February 21, 2024

Bioluminescent fungi, Oct 2023

Bioluminescent fungi -Hygrocybe prieta
Hygrocybe prieta: bioluminescent fungi. This is a mushroom of the waxcap genus Hygrocybe. *

Exploring the Enchanted Forest: Night-Time Hikes with Kurt Miller in Las Casas de la Selva Forest.

A team of adventurous explorers was granted the extraordinary opportunity to witness one of the natural world’s most enchanting phenomena: the trails of the Las Casas de la Selva rainforest illuminated by the ethereal glow of bioluminescent fungi. Under the expert guidance of the esteemed mycologist Kurt Miller, the participants embarked on a mesmerizing midnight trek. This unique journey allowed them to immerse themselves in the forest’s captivating luminescence, where the natural radiance of the fungi became the highlight of their adventure.

Kurt Miller, with his expertise and passion for fungi, led the group through the dense foliage, unveiling the hidden wonders of the forest under the cover of darkness. The bioluminescent fungi, a phenomenon where fungi emit light through a chemical reaction, turned the forest into a living, glowing entity. This extraordinary sight, often unseen by the day’s light, offered participants a unique glimpse into the mystical life of the rainforest.

The event, seamlessly organized by Raquel Torres-Arzola, included not just the hike but an immersive experience with an overnight stay in the heart of the rainforest. Raquel’s efforts ensured that every participant was well taken care of, providing a delicious dinner and breakfast that catered to all food preferences, making the adventure as comfortable as it was exhilarating.

Special thanks are also due to 3t, Paula Isabel Arzola, Abdelmonem Assi, and Andres Rua, whose contributions were invaluable in making the event a success. Their help with organizing and managing the logistics allowed participants to fully immerse themselves in the experience without worry.

For those adventurous souls who missed out on this spectacular event, there’s good news. Raquel Torres-Arzola is your go-to contact for signing up for future expeditions. These night-time hikes are tailored for those who are able to navigate the forest’s terrain after dark. Whether you’re looking to join as an individual or as part of a friend or family group of up to 18 people, there’s an opportunity for everyone. It’s important to note that these adventures are designed for physically fit participants over the age of 15, ensuring that all involved can safely enjoy the hike.

Las Casas de la Selva rainforest offers more than just a hike; it offers an opportunity to connect with nature on a profound level, to see the unseen, and to learn from experts like Kurt Miller. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines the thrill of exploration with the beauty of nature’s own light show, then this is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned for more opportunities to explore the glowing heart of the rainforest and witness the magic of bioluminescent fungi with Kurt Miller and the dedicated team that makes these journeys possible.

Lentinus scleropus at Las Casas de la Selva, Patillas, Puerto Rico.

Thank you, Kurt Miller, for your love of fungi.

*Hygrocybe prieta: bioluminescent fungi. This is a mushroom of the waxcap genus Hygrocybe. Described as new to science in 1990, it is found in Puerto Rico, where it grows on clay banks under boulders and elevated tree roots.

Education Frogs Herpetology Uncategorized
 June 24, 2023

Icaco Valley Frog Survey, 11th June 2023

Icaco Valley Frog Survey, 11th June 2023

A cooperative agreement between the Caribbean USFWS and the University of Florida (UF) just completed the last coquí guajón (E. cooki) survey for this project at one of the populations within Las Casas de la Selva property.

Last time this population was surveyed was back in 2013, with Norman Greenhawk. Despite the recent heat wave, the team led by Dr. Ana Longo and her graduate students (https://thelongolab.com/), was able to catch and release 30 coquí guajón frogs.

Coquí guajón, Eleutherodactylus cooki, juvenile in Icaco Valley, Patillas, Photo by JP Zegarra

Survey effort included general frog counts, genetic samples, chytrid fungus swabs and tick prevalence. This population is quite unique since it is one of the few known coquí guajón populations to co-occur with both the coquí caoba (E. richmondi) and the coquí melodioso (E. wightmanae), among other species.

Another peculiarity is that this coquí guajón population lacks ticks, perhaps because of its protected habitat and farther distance from human disturbance. In general, this coquí guajón population seems in good condition, but there are concerns with the potential effects of climate change on all coquí frog species. Ultimately, the consequences of these anomalies in demographic responses might not be immediately apparent, and can potentially affect reproduction and recruitment in the coquí guajón populations and other species as well.

Thanks to Jan P. Zegarra (Fish & Wildlife Biologist) for the info and these great photos from this recent survey, care of USFWS-Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office.

Coquí caoba, Eleutherodactylus richmondi, Icaco Valley, Patillas, Photo by JP Zegarra
Taking chytrid fungus swabs
BGCI Education Nursery People of Las Casas de la Selva School Groups Volunteer Groups
 June 24, 2023

Montessori-Guillermo Riefkohl, Patillas, 25-26 May 2023

A Magical Night in the Rainforest : Endangered Species & An Unforgettable Experience for Students of Montessori-Guillermo Riefkohl, Patillas, 25th – 26th May 2023.

Deep in the heart of Patillas, located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, sits a Montessori school, Escuela Guillermo Riefkohl. Steeped in rich traditions, the school is not just an educational institution, but a place where kids are nurtured and encouraged to explore the world beyond the textbook. Education is not confined within the four walls of a classroom; it’s about fostering a love for learning, teaching an appreciation for our surroundings, and nurturing an inquisitive spirit. The opportunity to spend a night in the rainforest is just one example of the extraordinary experiences that this local school offers its students, ensuring they grow not just academically, but also emotionally and with an environmental consciousness.

Recently, they embarked on an adventure that will forever be etched in their memories: a night under the canopy of the rainforest at Las Casas de la Selva.

Las Casas de la Selva, located in the forested mountains of Carite in Patillas, is a 40 year old sustainable forestry and rainforest enrichment project, a sanctuary of Puerto Rico’s native flora and fauna. The spectacular location brims with life, from the humble coquis – the island’s charming, melodious frogs – to anoles, stick insects, and an array of beetles, painting a vivid picture of the island’s biodiversity.

Escuela Guillermo Riefkohl students, aged 11 and 12, were lucky enough to spend a night amidst this thriving wilderness. This venture was more than just a school trip. For many, it represented their first journey away from the comforting confines of their homes and the warm, familiar embrace of their parents. For some, this was their first voyage into the rainforest, an ecosystem so different from their urban surroundings, filled with the thrill of uncharted territory and the promise of discovery.

A million thanks to the great teachers behind this project, Ilianexcis Pérez and Teresa Sabtiago. Their dedication and passion for education went beyond the standard curriculum, opening up a world of natural wonders for the young learners. They understood the immeasurable value in letting kids breathe the wild air, touch the damp earth, and listen to the soothing symphony of the rainforest – experiences that kindle a lifelong fascination with nature. Dedicated staff team also included Angela, Caesar, and Alexis, with their expertise and unwavering commitment, played a pivotal role in making this expedition safe, educational, and immensely enjoyable for the kids. Monique Nieves, chef, provided nutritious & delicious meals.

The students were there to spend time with 3t (Thrity Vakil, director), to discover and learn about the rare and endangered plant species that 3t and her botanical team are working with, in collaboration with The Botanical Gardens Conservation International. Namely Palo de Cruz (Garcinia portoricensis), and Tortuga Prieto (Ravenia urbanii), as well as several other critically endangered species such as Palo de Nigua (Cornutia obovata), and Palo de Jazmin (Styrax portoricensis).

From the dense canopy overhead to the rich soil underfoot, every inch of the rainforest is teeming with life, and much of this life is a mystery, just waiting to be unraveled. It was under the guidance 3t, that the students of Escuela Guillermo Riefkohl ventured into this unexplored wilderness. As the director of Las Casas de la Selva, 3t and her botanical team are spearheading efforts to understand and conserve some of the rainforest’s most precious inhabitants.

An integral part of their visit was the chance to delve deep into the world of two incredibly rare and endangered plant species – Palo de Cruz (Garcinia portoricensis) and Tortuga Prieto (Ravenia urbanii). These are not just plants, but living fragments of Puerto Rico’s unique biological heritage, struggling for survival in an increasingly threatened ecosystem.

Guided by 3t’s passion and expertise, the students embarked on an exciting journey of discovery. They learned about these plants, the role of diversity inthe complex web of rainforest life, and the urgent need for their conservation. Through hands-on experience, they saw, touched, and understood the critical work 3t and her team are doing to preserve these species for future generations.

Imagine their wide-eyed awe as they beheld the seedlings of Palo de Cruz, a species as enigmatic as it is rare, with its glossy leaves and sharp point, or the Tortuga Prieto, trees found nowhere else in the world but Puerto Rico. They discussed the challenges faced by these plants, felt the urgency of their plight, and hopefully understood the profound importance of conservation work.

By inviting the students into this world, 3t opened their eyes to the miracles of the rainforest and the dire need to protect it. With every leaf they turned, every question they asked, and every answer they discovered, the students were not only learning about the world around them but also their role in it. And who knows, perhaps among those students, inspired by 3t’s work, is a future botanist or conservationist, ready to take up the torch and continue the fight for Puerto Rico’s incredible natural heritage.

The children of Escuela Guillermo Riefkohl were not merely visitors, but rather explorers for the night, embarking on an unforgettable journey of discovery. Imagine the laughter echoing through the forest as the kids played games, their wide-eyed wonder at the sight of anole lizards disappearing into the foliage, the joy of spotting a stick insect camouflaged on a branch, and the awestruck silence as they listened to the nocturnal serenade of coquis under the starlit sky.

This enchanting encounter with the rainforest was more than just a night of fun. It was a vital, transformative educational experience that has, undoubtedly, shaped these children’s perception of the natural world. As they walked away from Las Casas de la Selva, they carried with them not just memories of a thrilling adventure, but a newfound respect for nature, understanding of biodiversity, and a spark of curiosity that will hopefully fuel their quest for knowledge for years to come.

Award Botany Climate change Education Endangered plants Environment Forestry Hurricane Maria Nursery Press Rare trees Tree planting Waste management Wood
 February 3, 2022

Latest Videos, Press, & Publications

For Tropic Ventures Research & Education Foundation, 2021 began with Naples Botanical Garden in Florida securing a grant from the Association of Zoological Horticulture to fund the building of a new tree nursery at our project in Patillas, Puerto Rico, after the devastation of all our tree nurseries in Hurricane Maria in 2017. Following this, the 2021 Botanical Gardens Conservation International & Global Tree Campaign agreement and grant opportunity to survey for two threatened endemic species was a huge accomplishment; a proposal for the conservation of two Puerto Rican endemic trees, Garcinia portoricensis & Ravenia urbanii. Thrity Vakil, director of TVREF, immediately set about creating a diverse team comprised of plant and tree experts, and experts in the fields of ecology, biology, taxonomy, bryology, mycology, and zoology. (TVREF is also known as Eye on the Rainforest, which is the name of its website).

Take a short drone flight over Las Casas de la Selva, Sustainable Forestry & Rainforest Enrichment Project, established in 1983 in Patillas, Puerto Rico. August 2021.
Footage by Brent Foley, Production by Alfredo Lopez.

Earthday Botanical Survey 2021, at Las Casas de la Selva, Sustainable forestry & Rainforest Enrichment Project in Patillas, Puerto Rico. Filmwork: Raymesh Cintron, Narrator: 3t Vakil, Soundtrack: Andrés Rúa

“Re-examining Crises as Opportunities for Change: Sustainable Forestry, Log salvage, and Hardwood production after extreme social, ecological & technological disturbances in Puerto Rico.”
Since 2014, the Yale University Chapter of the International Society of Tropical Foresters (ISTF) has awarded an Innovation Prize at its annual conference to honor outstanding initiatives and ideas related to tropical forest use and conservation.  Thrity was selected as one of three finalists to tell the story of Las Casas de la Selva, Puerto Rico Hardwoods, and the Institute of Ecotechnics. February 2021
Images and footage: 3t Vakil, Andrés Rúa, Tom Marvel, & Greg Byers.

Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico as a Category 4 storm on the morning of 20th September 2017. Tropic Ventures Sustainable Forestry and Rainforest Enrichment Project established 35 years ago, lay directly in her path. This is 3t’s visual story of the impact of Hurricane Maria on the rainforest project in Patillas, on the land known as Las Casas de la Selva, southeast Puerto Rico.

Film and photos by 3t Vakil, and Andrés Rúa. Edited by Corinna MacNeice. Use headphones to appreciate the soundscape.

“Seas, rain forests, and saving coral reefs” Long Lost Friends talks with 3T Vakil


“Painting and saving forests in Puerto Rico” Long Lost Friends talks with 3T Vakil


“Saving Endangered Trees” Long Lost Friends talks with 3T Vakil


PRESS & PUBLICATIONS

  1. In 2021, the Global Tree Campaign has partnered with Eye on the Rainforest, a Puerto Rican NGO, with the aims of conserving tree species most at risk of extinction by increasing the technical capacity of project partners and improving the conservation status of these tree species.  https://globaltrees.org/projects/securing-the-conservation-of-endemic-trees-in-puerto-rico/
  2. 3t made a virtual presentation to the Rotary Club of San Juan in September 2021.
  3. Conserve Magazine: https://www.naplesgarden.org/wp-ontent/uploads/2021/08/Conserve.pdf
    See pages 16 to 20. 3t’s photo of the Las Casas forest made the front cover!





Education Globalworks Teams School Groups Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers
 September 26, 2021

Global Works Team 3: July 2021

26-29th July 2021: Thanks to this intrepid team of teens who worked with 3t clearing the overgrowth on our main drive from the gate, and also work in the nursery. This team spent three nights with us. Thanks to Magha Garcia and Milly Santiago for the cuisine that kept the team well fed.

Big thanks also to Global Works Trip Leader, Eric Uslander, and to the staff who stayed with us: Lindsey Storm, Talia Santos, and James Palma Harrera.

Global Works provides service trips for teens and school travel programs with community service, cultural exchange, language immersion, and adventure. They make sure that teens have an unforgettable experience abroad, make friends for a lifetime, have lessons in leadership, and make impactful change!
For more on their programs: https://www.globalworkstravel.com/

We have been collaborating with Global Works since 2003, and we really value the long-term relationship with staff and the teens who return as young aduts to continue a relationship with our project.

Education Globalworks Teams Homestead School Groups Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers
 September 25, 2021

Global Works Team 2: July 2021

25th July 2021: This team of 25 teenagers and three staff spent a day at Las Casas de la Selva helping with cement-work on our library roof, led by Andrés Rúa, and clearing the homestead of overgrowth with 3t, particularly behind the workshop, where the vines and bamboo had really become wild. Many hands make light work, and this team worked hard all day in rainy weather. Thank you!!! Thanks to Magha for the delicious cuisine.

Big thanks also to Global Works Trip Leader, Eric Uslander, and to the awesome staff: Jorge Flores, Fabricio Ochoa Serrano, Katie Kelly, and Penelope Benscome.

Global Works provides service trips for teens and school travel programs with community service, cultural exchange, language immersion, and adventure. They make sure that teens have an unforgettable experience abroad, make friends for a lifetime, have lessons in leadership, and make impactful change!
For more on their programs: https://www.globalworkstravel.com/

We have been collaborating with Global Works since 2003, and we really value the long-term relationship with staff and the teens who return as young aduts to continue a relationship with our project.

Education History of the project
 November 22, 2020

VisitRico

In July 2020, Thrity and Andrés collaborated with Visit Rico to create the first public event at the project since the Covid-19 Lockdown that started in March 2020 at Las Casas de la Selva. The event was a Farm-to-Table dining experience that engaged with local producers, and chef Natalia Lucia delighted everyone with her cuisine.

VisitRico is a non-profit organization, directed by Camille Collazo, dedicated to the development of agriculture in Puerto Rico through education, health, and food security through the organic, community, and urban agriculture. They offer educational services through seminars and workshops for farmers in management, administrative, and technical matters. They advocate for the protection and conservation of the natural resources of Puerto Rico, and their vision is to be the engine of the agricultural economy.

Thanks to Raymesh Cintron (filmmaker), Camille Collazo, and VisitRico.

Education
 March 1, 2020

Chainsaw Training Workshop at Las Casas de la Selva

Hurricane Maria in 2017 killed many of the Pine trees (Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis, known as Caribbean Pitch Pine or Honduras Pine) on the 600m elevation ridge-tops of Las Casas, and they are dead but standing.

In March 2020, the team from Puerto Rico Hardwoods closed the wood-yard in Caguas and spent the day bringing down standing dead Caribbean pine trees. This wood was milled into 2x4s for a special project. This was a great opportunity for training the crew in directional felling, using ropes, and learning about harvesting trees, and all the safety procedures. The crew were trained by, led by Andrés Rúa, and Rafael Pérez.

Pinus caribaea was planted at Las Casas de la Selva in the early 80s, favored by the PR Department of Natural Resources, and chosen for its fast growth, and ability to grow on virtually all soil types. The soil on the ridges are clay and the land was heavily grazed for many years. Now 35 years later, in 2020, we can see that the trees did grow fast and well, but unfortunately there would never be a market for the wood in Puerto Rico. 3t and Andrés have been trying for many years to create a market for the pine, have used it on several projects, but its sale has been limited.

About this pine: Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis was introduced into Puerto Rico in 1959, and was introduced intentionally to be used for erosion control, and as windbreaks. The heartwood is a golden yellow to brown, with highly defined straight grain, and a light yellow sapwood. Straight resinous canals streak the wood. The wood exudes a large amount of resin, making it less suitable for joinery and flooring, and limiting its value as a timber. Nevertheless, it is used for a wide range of purposes, including construction, light flooring, joinery, inexpensive furniture, boxes, pallets, turnery, toys and, has in other countries been used after treatment with preservatives, for poles, posts, and railway sleepers.

Group pic on logs: Back, L-R: Ariza Torres, Omar Garcia, Abraham A. Sanchez Cuprill,
Front, L-R: Rafael Pérez Antonetti, 3t Vakil, and Xavier Arroyo.

Education
 January 15, 2020

Dog Training Team at Las Casas de la Selva

Debbie Jacobs has been organizing travel adventures for nearly three decades, including leading group adventures to Puerto Rico. She has been bringing various groups to Las Casas de la Selva since the 90s.

She has always been foremost a dog trainer, and finally about four years ago realized her dream of organizing dog-training groups to visit Puerto Rico. She is excited to be combining her passion for traveling and sharing unique environments with people, along with her enthusiasm for helping pet owners discover the most effective and humane ways to communicate with their dogs. The team also travels to animal sanctuaries and shelters, where they train the staff and animals, helping with the stray dog situation that is ongoing.

Part of Debbie’s ten-day Puerto Rico trips includes several days at Las Casas. During the day, she offers the latest animal training techniques and shares them with her team. Getting people to visit Las Casas is always a good thing, and gives us the chance to spread the word about the work we do in sustainable forestry. We also invite our friends who have dogs that need training. It is actually the case that the humans need as much training as the animals! By showing people how to have a positive and trusting relationship with their pets, they support dogs in doing what they can do so well – become our best friends and treasured members of our families. Having our own dogs makes Las Casas a favorite place for Debbie’s team, and Negralora, Nogal, and Yagrumo get to learn best behaviors as a result of this positive reinforcement training. Kailash, our 15 year old cat is also trained in various ways, (yes, you can teach an old cat new tricks!), as well as some of the chickens!

Debbie’s trip is a perfect combination of community service, dog training skills, education and practice, and flat-out fun. Delicious meals were cooked by 3t and a up-lifting salsa dance class by Yari Soler.

Professionals in the industry she has trained with include Jean Donaldson (https://www.academyfordogtrainers.com/), and Bob Bailey. Debbie is also currently studying to become a Registered Behavior Technician, an international certification that indicates she is qualified to work with Board Certified Behavior Analysts in implementing behavior modification plans with people.

Debbie Jacobs, CPDT-KA, CAP2, is the author of ‘A Guide To Living With & Training A Fearful Dog’ and ‘Does My Dog Need Prozac?’

Video on Dog Trainers’ Collaborative Las Casas de la Selva Puerto Rico https://youtu.be/RbsuZrLxIBQ

More info on the dog training: https://fearfuldogs.com/

Education Service work Sustainable lifestyle Volunteers Work
 July 25, 2017

Planting Vetiver – July 2017

Planting Vetiver for erosion control and bank stabilization.

  • Left to Right: Katherine Tsui (14), Serena Tsui (18), & Summer Powers (18), volunteering for 10 days at Las Casas de la Selva.

Chrysopogon zizanioides, is commonly known as vetiver.

Vetiver grass has a special root system that works above and below ground, to ensure steep soil stabilization and erosion control. Vetiver’s roots grow downward, 2 metres (7 ft) to 4 metres (13 ft) in depth, deeper than some tree roots. The sturdy, hard stems create hedges, which act to protect the topsoil, dissipate wind and water energy, slow down water flow, trap sediments, and control water runoff. There are at least 11 species of vetiver and lots of cultigens and cultivars. There is one species, Chrysopogon zizanioides, that is sterile, so there is no concern about it being invasive.

This current planting project aims to protect our newly graded road, by stabilizing the banks.

Thanks to Alberto Rodriguez for the Vetiver.

And gratitude to Summer Powers, who brought her two friends, Serena Tsui and Katherine Tsui to volunteer as well, for ten days. (Summer first volunteered here in 2015 with a Globalworks Teen Team, lead by Scott Page). We love returners. Thank you ladies!

Please see this page for info about volunteering at Las Casas de la Selva, Patillas, Puerto Rico. We always appreciate the power of people who love our biosphere.

July 2017

Education Volunteers
 March 24, 2017

University Students from UPR – We need you!

SOLO PARA ESTUDIANTES DE LA UNIVERSIDAD DE PUERTO RICO.

Comenzando el lunes 27 marzo en la mañana.

Durante los días del Paro Universitario te invitamos a que te unas como voluntarix al equipo de Las Casas de la Selva en Patillas, un proyecto de silvicultura sostenible, taller de trabajos en madera y agricultura orgánica. Aprenderás destrezas de trabajos en madera, un básico de manejo forestal y conocerás de los estudios científicos que se han llevado a cabo en nuestro proyecto entre otras cosas. El costo por estudiante es de $8.00 por día, esto incluye todas las comidas, dormitorio (bunkhouse) y duchas con agua caliente, además de vivir por unos días en uno de los lugares más hermosos de Puerto Rico, el área del Bosque de Carite, donde está localizado el proyecto.

Requisitos: Buscamos participaantes Listxs, Dispuestxs y Capaces, motivadxs, con actitud positiva y compromiso.

Solo 20 espacios disponibles. Por favor enviar un párrafo acerca de ti y porque te gustaría participar.

Correo electrónico: 3t@eyeontherainforest.org.
Puedes visitar nuestra página de internet www.eyeontherainforest.org para que conozcas más de nosotros y de nuestro proyecto.

Muchas gracias, te esperamos.

***********************************

ONLY FOR STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO.

Starts Monday 27th March 2017 in the morning.

During the days of the University strike we invite you to join as a volunteer of Las Casas de la Selva’s Team in Patillas, a sustainable forestry project, woodworking workshop and organic agricultural area. You will learn woodworking skills and the basics of forest management among other things. The cost per student is $8.00 per day. This includes all meals, bunkhouse accommodation, and showers with hot water. You will be living for a few days in one of the most beautiful places in Puerto Rico- the Carite forest area, where the project is located.

Requirements: All we ask is for Ready, Willing, and Able participants who are motivated, with a positive attitude and commitment.

Only 20 spaces available.
Please send a paragraph about yourself and why you would like to participate with us.
Email to: 3t@eyeontherainforest.org.
You can visit our website www.eyeontherainforest.org for more about us and our project.
Thank you, we look forward to seeing you here.

3t Vakil and Andres Rua

Alternative Spring Break Education Uncategorized
 March 23, 2017

Penn State University, York, March 2017

Click here for a whole bunch of fun images, with an international body of students from Penn State, York, who came through Globalworks to spend a few days helping in a grand overhaul of our workshop and wood storage. All these great images are by Penn State York chaperone, Judith Owen, and Globalworks Team Leader, Ava Murphey. Thank you all for a really wonderful time.

Freddy Dempster (Chief Engineer of Biosphere 2) joined us at Las Casas de la Selva during this period as well and made an inspiring Biosphere 2 presentation. Thank you to Magha Garcia for the fine food, Andrés Rúa, Ricardo Valle, for crew leadership and to Alfredo Lopez for being the random element help.

Google Album: https://goo.gl/photos/pHjr61hJ2gwm6XgR9

Education School Groups
 October 29, 2016

Puerto Rico needs foresters, more than ever.

Estos son estudiantes de la Universidad de Puerto Rico, Recinto de Mayagüez, participando en el curso de Silvicultura AGRO4010 del Departamento de Ciencias Agro-ambientales. Pasamos el dia en plantaciones de Caoba y Majó bajo la lluvia torrencial e intensas discusiones que tuvimos en el campo. Gracias al Prof. Oscar J. Abelleira Martínez, por organizar este pasadia para los estudiantes quien estuvo presente aún cuando su esposa se encontraba en el hospital a punto de tener su bebe! Jennifer M. Rivera San Antonio, Asistente del Profesor y Estudiante graduada del Programa de Horticultura de UPRM dirigió el grupo.

La pasamos super bien con todos ustedes. These are students from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, participating in the Silviculture AGRO4010 course from the Department of Agro-environmental Sciences. The day was spent in the plantations of mahogany and mahoe, and through torrential rain, intense discussions kept us warm in the field. Thanks to Professor Oscar J. Abelleira Martínez, for organizing this field trip, to benefit his students, even as his wife was in hospital ready to deliver a baby! Oscar’s assistant Jennifer M. Rivera San Antonio, Graduate Student in the Horticulture Program at UPRM led the team. We had a great time with you all. Please keep forestry high in your choice of future studies. Puerto Rico needs foresters, more than ever.

Images by 3t Oct 2016
Translation by Magha Garcia

Contacto Verde Education School Groups
 October 28, 2016

Contacto Verde – Escuela Elemental Marín Bajo, Patillas, 28 October 2016

We were delighted to receive 1st and 2nd Graders (6-8 years) from Escuela Elemental Marín Bajo in Patillas who came for a few hours to get into the wonderful forest of Las Casas de la Selva! As part of the new educational initiative in Puerto Rico ‘Programa Contacto Verde, these students had an informative and inspiring time with Andrés, in the forest, and around the Las Casas de la Selva Homestead. We also welcomed Angelica Mercado and the film crew of Puertorriqueñisimo team, who interviewed Andrés and Ruth Reyes Ramos, (below right), and filmed the students in the forest.

  • Thanks to Reinaldo Rivera Ortiz, above, Director of Citizen Help of Patillas, and the staff of the school.

Contacto Verde is a program created by the Department of Education and the Department of Natural Resources to facilitate the participation of students at all levels to visit and engage with places of ecological value in Puerto Rico; to encourage experiences with nature, as a complement to environmental education and as a tool to promote the strengthening of cognitive skills and student learning.

La Ley Núm. 36 de 23 de marzo de 2015 crea el programa de gestión ambiental Contacto Verde, adscrito al Departamento de Educación de Puerto Rico y a ser desarrollado en coordinación con el Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales. Esta ley también ordena crear un comité de coordinación y establecer sus funciones, facultades y deberes con el propósito de garantizar la participación de los estudiantes de todos los niveles del sistema educativo en talleres y actividades de visitas a lugares de valor ecológico en Puerto Rico, para fomentar las experiencias de contacto con la naturaleza como complemento para las gestiones de educación ambiental y como herramienta para propender al fortalecimiento de las destrezas cognoscitivas y de aprendizaje del estudiantado. El programa también busca fomentar la participación familiar en actividades ambientales, desarrollar la sensibilidad ambiental y el desarrollo integral de nuestros niños y jóvenes.

Images by 3t Vakil and Reinaldo Rivera, 2016

Education School Groups
 October 18, 2016

UPR (University of Puerto Rico) Elementary School, 14 October 2016

This field trip was organized by Professors Lizzette M. Velazquez, and Linda Clark, as part of their “Al rescate del paisaje forestal de la UPR” (Rescuing the forest landscape of UPR), and included future elementary school teachers in training. We went through the forest trails of Las Casas de la Selva to see the origin of the Sonadora River, and whilst getting there, we talked about trees, animals, soil, the importance of forests, and marveled at the biodiversity all around us.

Back at the homestead, we looked at compost piles at different stages of composting, learnt about humanure composting toilets, (and used them), and smelt fresh humanure compost from a seasoned pile in 3t’s hand! We talked about attitudes towards dirt, or is it soil? and the art of making soil, to grow food. Later, a talk in the wood-shop, a look at raw lumber, and our hand-made wood products, all the while, Negralora, the famous black dog, loving the attention.

Thank you to Lizzette and Linda, and the teachers in training, who helped to manage the group.
Thanks also to Professor Fernando Silva Caraballo, el Director del Instituto de Ciencias para la Conservación de Puerto Rico (INCICO), for early discussions in organizing this field trip, as part of a continuing education in forest appreciation and active management.

Universidad de Puerto Rico, Recinto de Río Piedras Facultad de Educación (DPE y EEUPR) en colaboración con la Oficina de Rectoría e InCiCo
Proyecto:
¡Al rescate del paisaje forestal del cuadrángulo del Recinto de Río Piedras de la Universidad de PR!

Conceptuado y desarrollado por: Dra. Lizzette M. Velázquez Rivera, Dra. Linda Clark Mora, el Dr. Eric I. Figueroa Gonzalez bajo el asesoramiento del Dr. Fernando Silva Caraballo; agosto a diciembre de 2016
Problema y participantes:
Entre los recursos naturales del Recinto de Río Piedras de la UPR se destaca la diversidad de flora que posee. Esta flora sirve de escenario en el cual ocurren innumerables interacciones que enriquecen la vida en este ecosistema urbano. Sin embargo, ante el paso del tiempo y el aumento de la demanda de uso de los terrenos del Recinto para diversos propósitos propios del urbanismo, su presencia también acarrea retos. Entre ellos se destacan la existencia de árboles viejos y enfermos que pueden presentar peligro y el impacto negativo de éstos árboles en las edificaciones.

No es cuestionado el valor estético, ecológico, histórico y científico; entre otros, que proporciona este paisaje forestal a este importante centro universitario de PR. Sin embargo, diversos sectores de la comunidad universitaria tienen diferentes perspectivas de cómo manejar apropiadamente estos árboles. Todos reconocen su importancia, pero en ocasiones sus medidas de acción se contraponen.

Oficina de la Rectoría de la UPR-RP tiene interés especial en promover una mayor consciencia en la comunidad universitaria sobre la presencia y la relevancia de la contribución que aportan los árboles al recinto. Además, está promoviendo una política que permita un mejor manejo de los mismos. Para ello, cuanta con la colaboración del Instituto de Ciencias para la Conservación de Puerto Rico (InCiCo) representado por el Sr. Fernando Silva Caraballo. Silva Caraballo integra a su equipo de trabajo al Dr. Edgardo González y juntos desarrollan la “Iniciativa forestal en el Recinto de Rio Piedras: para el rescate de la memoria histórica de su paisaje forestal y alternativas de estudio, evaluación y manejo de sus árboles y arboledas”.
Una de las instancias específicas que adopta esta iniciativa del Rector tuvo que ver con la respuesta a los requerimientos de sustitución y poda de varios árboles en las dos Escuelas Laboratorio de la UPR-RP como parte de un plan de mejoras a la infraestructura de ambos planteles escolares. Mediante una estrategia participativa diseñada y facilitada por Fernando Silva, se generó un proceso de diálogo, investigación y acción coordinada entre los diversos sectores y actores de la comunidad universitaria y escolar que permitió la integración de las APM, directores de ambas escuelas y una amplia participación de los estudiantes. El resultado produjo un informe de recomendaciones que fueron aprobadas por la Oficna de Rectoría y adaptadas al plan de sustitución y poda que fue propuesto originalmente.

Entre los resultados y lecciones aprendidas de este proceso surgen nuevas oportunidades de integración académica para la investigación y estudio de otros árboles en el Recinto.

Estudiantes de la Facultad de Educación son invitados a colaborar iniciativa forestal de la Oficina de la Rectoría de la UPR-RP en colaboración con InCiCo. Específicamente, futuros maestros del nivel elemental de los cursos que ofrece la Dra. Lizzette M. Velázquez Rivera y estudiantes de 6to grado, de la clase de ciencias de la Dra. Linda Clark Mora en la EEUPR, son invitados a participar del Proyecto ¡Al rescate del paisaje forestal del cuadrángulo del Recinto de la UPR-RP! Esto con el fin de aportar a la comunidad universitaria y escolar de PR, nuevo conocimiento sobre estos árboles. A su vez, presentar recomendaciones a Rectoría que permitan integrar la participación activa de los diferentes sectores y actores responsables e interesados en conservar el valor de los árboles del cuadrángulo del Recinto de Río Piedras.

Como parte de del proceso de aprendizaje de los futuros maestros de ciencias participantes, estos a su vez formaran parte del Proyecto para fomentar la integración de STEM en el currículo del Área de Ciencias de la Facultad de Educación de la UPR-RP, desarrollado por: Dra. Gladys Dávila Hernández, Dra. Lizzette M. Velázquez Rivera y Srta. Gilemi Sepúlveda Cuadrado. (1)Ver detales de este al concluir la descripción del Proyecto ¡Al Rescate!

Several links at the bottom of this page expand the topic for discussion.
Please contact 3t Vakil to see how you can bring your group to Las Casas de la Selva to make contact with the green.

Volunteer at Las Casas de la Selva

Se avecinan cambios forestales en la Escuela Elemental y Secundaria de la UPR

Invierten $3 millones en escuelas laboratorios de la UPR en Río Piedras

Millones para mejoras a las escuelas laboratorios de la UPRRP

Análisis del paisaje forestal en Puerto Rico

Author: 3t Vakil, October 2016

Contacto Verde Education School Groups
 October 13, 2016

Contacto Verde – Tomas Vera Ayala School, 12 October 2016

We were delighted to receive 4th and 5th Graders (10-12 years) from Tomas Vera Ayala Elementary School in Patillas who came for a few hours to get a hit of the wonderful forest of Las Casas de la Selva!

As part of the new educational initiative in Puerto Rico ‘Programa Contacto Verde, these students had a great time with Andrés in the forest, and around the Las Casas de la Selva Homestead. Thanks to Reinaldo Rivera Ortiz, Director of Citizen Help of Patillas, and the staff of the school for their enthusiastic collaboration.

Contacto Verde is a program created by the Department of Education and the Department of Natural Resources to facilitate the participation of students at all levels to visit and engage with places of ecological value in Puerto Rico; to encourage experiences with nature, as a complement to environmental education and as a tool to promote the strengthening of cognitive skills and student learning.

La Ley Núm. 36 de 23 de marzo de 2015 crea el programa de gestión ambiental Contacto Verde, adscrito al Departamento de Educación de Puerto Rico y a ser desarrollado en coordinación con el Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales. Esta ley también ordena crear un comité de coordinación y establecer sus funciones, facultades y deberes con el propósito de garantizar la participación de los estudiantes de todos los niveles del sistema educativo en talleres y actividades de visitas a lugares de valor ecológico en Puerto Rico, para fomentar las experiencias de contacto con la naturaleza como complemento para las gestiones de educación ambiental y como herramienta para propender al fortalecimiento de las destrezas cognoscitivas y de aprendizaje del estudiantado. El programa también busca fomentar la participación familiar en actividades ambientales, desarrollar la sensibilidad ambiental y el desarrollo integral de nuestros niños y jóvenes.

Images by 3t Vakil, and Group Pic by William Davidowski. 12th October 2016
Logo by DRNATAGS: EDUCATION,KIDS

Education Globalworks Teams People of Las Casas de la Selva Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers Work
 July 22, 2016

San Francisco Day School with Globalworks, May 2016!

This May another 60 students from San Francisco Day school came to Puerto Rico along with their staff, and on a Globalworks organized trip, they stayed all over the island, spending valuable time at Las Casas de la Selva, (20 at a time) during some torrential rainy weather, helping us with the mixing and pouring of a a new cement floor. Thanks to Globalworks staff, Ari W, Luis Bertolo, and PR Globalworks Director, Scott Page. The work was led by Andrés Rúa, and Norman Greenhawk. Thanks to Ricardo Valles, Alex Figueroa and Joel Bernier, for help with all the work. Yara Solis gave three full-on Salsa Dance classes, and Magha Garcia provided some of the finest Puerto Rican food on the island! Thanks to 3t Vakil and Irving Rappaport for images.

Thank you everyone, for all the great energy, even through some of the worst weather we have had this year!

Alternative Spring Break Education Homestead Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers
 March 12, 2016

Pepperdine, App State, Fountain Valley: Volunteer Groups March 2016

These intrepid students from Fountain Valley High School, Colorado Springs spent 5 days of hard labor on projects ranging from nursery work and trail-blazing with 3t, to roadwork with Andres, and woodworking with Ricardo and Alex. This is the third year of FVS students volunteering at Las Casas de la Selva. We are honored to have worked alongside you all. Welcome back anytime! Thanks to Deb and Brett, awesome staff who accompanied the students. Also huge thanks to Magha Garcia for the delicious food. Check back in the coming weeks for more pix.

This was our 2016 Appalachian State University Team of hardworking volunteers on their Alternative Service Experience during Spring Break. We all worked on a multitude of tasks at Las Casas de la Selva, including organization of the sheds and workshop, deconstruction of an old roof, and ditch-digging for a new floor. AS Staff member, Mona helped in the library with cleaning abd book maintenance and care. We are thrilled every year to receive students from App State and every year just gets better. Abbie (her second year at Las Casas de la Selva) and Lucas – hats off to you for great team leadership. We thank you all for your labors, along with the fine company. See you soon again. Thanks also to Lizbeth Velez for participation with the groups, helping in all aspects of management.
Great team from Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA. This team built the two extra showers, that we need as some of our groups in the year are over 15 people. The year’s compost pile was emptied and a new one started. Thank you Carsen and Kris for leading the team and thank you all for such tremendous company and hard work. This team lived in a mountain cloud for the most part of their time here. It rained a lot!
Education Events Forest products Friends of Las Casas de la Selva
 January 22, 2016

Walk-Talk-Tour 31st January 2016

We will always share news of a Walk-Talk Tour. Join our email list to stay informed of this and other events at Las Casas de la Selva.

WALK-TALK-TOUR -This tour will be in English.
9.30am-2.00pm, Sunday 31st January, 2016.
Cost: $20.00 per head includes lunch. (Children under 10 years free.)

Where: In the homestead, forest, and woodshop facilities of Sustainable Forestry Project,
Las Casas de la Selva, Patillas, Puerto Rico. Disabled facilities very limited.

Clothing: Please wear suitable shoes or boots for a forest walk. Open-toed sandals, or flip flops are not suitable at all on uneven paths and potentially muddy trails. Wear long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt. We reserve the right to refuse entry to the forest to anyone unsuitably dressed.

Schedule:
9.30am: Coffee and Cake, orientation
Digital presentation of the history of Las Casas de la Selva and ongoing work, and introduction to Puerto Rico Hardwoods.
11.00am: Guided Forest walk to see plantations, identify trees, understand the history of land-use, & current projects, including planting of endangered tree species.
12.30pm: Gourmet lunch with organic salad, fruit juices, tea and coffee.
1.00pm: Tour of the wood workshop, drying sheds, & projects in progress.
An opportunity to buy or order wood, or beautiful hardwood products seen at our homestead.
2.00pm: Group Photo and Finish.

BOOK NOW:
Please send an email with the following info to 3t at: wanderwoman3t@gmail.com
• How many people?
• Dietary restrictions (meat/veg) or allergies if any.
Please ask for directions if needed.

See you here! 3t and Andres
Some of the products that will be available.

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