Conservation in Action: Ravenia urbani and the power of persistence: US Forest Service Rare Plant Partnerships 2024-2025
Over the past year, our team at Eye on the Rainforest has made remarkable strides in the conservation of Ravenia urbani, one of Puerto Rico’s most vulnerable endemic tree species. Supported by the US Forest Service Rare Plant Partnership, our 2024–2025 project focused on safeguarding this rare plant through seed collection, nursery propagation, habitat surveys, and community engagement.
Despite the hurdles—late permit approvals, and Hurricane Ernesto sweeping across the region just as Ravenia urbani was flowering—we persevered. These challenges didn’t slow our momentum; instead, they reinforced the urgency and relevance of our work.
🌱 What We Accomplished
60 thriving seedlings from the 2023 propagation continue to grow strong in our nursery at Las Casas de la Selva.
276 endemic trees, including R. urbani, were planted across in-situ and ex-situ sites.
Botanical expeditions were carried out in El Yunque, Cerro de Cabro, Patillas, Yabucoa, and Carite State Forest—some in remote, uncharted terrain.
Seed collection yielded just five seeds due to the storm—but even a single viable seed carries promise.
Field surveys expanded our understanding of the species’ range and informed our developing Species Recovery and Management Plan.
Hands-on outreach brought students, educators, and community members into the heart of the rainforest to experience conservation firsthand.
🌍 Connecting People to Plants
Throughout 2024 and 2025, we welcomed schools and groups from across Puerto Rico and the mainland U.S.—from Susquehanna University, PA, to Urbe Apie from Caguas. Visitors planted trees, tended nursery seedlings, helped with trail work, and learned what it means to care for an endangered species. These immersive experiences didn’t just teach—they inspired. We’re laying the groundwork for a formal mentorship program to nurture young Puerto Rican botanists through training, research, and field participation. Because protecting our forests means building a future of local leadership.
Science That Grows Roots
We continue to contribute growth data to the Global Tree Assessment, working alongside partners like BGCI, El Yunque National Forest, and Para la Naturaleza. Our work with Ravenia urbani—from nursery care, to expeditions to locate plants and collect fruits for seed —feeds directly into a broader understanding of forest health and plant resilience.
A Living Legacy
In a year marked by both challenge and achievement, Ravenia urbani has become more than a species we protect. It has become a symbol of endurance, collaboration, and ecological commitment. We particularly thank BGCI, the US Forest Service, for giving us this opportunity. Sustained funding is essential to protect endangered species like Ravenia urbani and engage communities in their long-term survival. With continued support, we will keep planting, teaching, exploring—and protecting what matters most.
Thanks to Jon Warwick, Dr. Mark Nelson, Ricardo Santiago, Tom White, and the incredible botanical team.
Featured image below shows team members at the summit of Cerro del Cabro, Patillas/Yabucoa, 650m, surrounded by mountain forest. 10 Aug 2024. L-R: Kurt Miller, Ian, 3t Vakil, Angel Collazo, Sarah Plauche, Erid Roman, & Colston Collazo
