Houghton University returns to Eye on the Rainforest
We were delighted to welcome students and faculty from Houghton University back to Las Casas de la Selva for another visit, led by John M. Rowley, Ph.D., Professor of Chemistry and Director of Science Honors. Having visited us previously, it was a pleasure to continue building this relationship through another day of learning in the rainforest.
The group explored our Ethnobotanical Trail with Erid Román, a young botanist and member of the Eye on the Rainforest Botanical Team. Along the trail, Erid introduced the students to the remarkable diversity of Puerto Rico’s native and endemic flora, sharing how plants have been used traditionally while explaining their ecological roles within the forest.
The walk also provided an opportunity to learn about the history of Las Casas de la Selva—how former agricultural land has been transformed through more than four decades of rainforest restoration, sustainable forestry, scientific research, and environmental education. Along the way, students practiced identifying tree species and gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity of tropical forest ecosystems.
After the hike, everyone returned to the homestead to enjoy a nutritious home-cooked lunch prepared by 3T, providing time to reflect on the morning’s discoveries and continue conversations about conservation, ecology, and the importance of protecting Puerto Rico’s forests.
Visits like these demonstrate the value of experiential learning. By combining science, history, and hands-on exploration, students leave with a richer understanding of tropical forests and the people working to conserve them for future generations.
We thank Dr. Rowley and Houghton University for returning to Eye on the Rainforest, and we look forward to welcoming them back again.
