Restore impacted protected forest in Puerto Rico

Protectores de Cuencas Inc. (PDC) is leading a critical reforestation effort to restore the Guánica State Forest, a vital yet wildfire-prone ecosystem in Puerto Rico. From December to March, PDC utilized donor funds to significantly boost the production of native, drought-adapted trees, ensuring their long-term survival in this challenging environment. Recent efforts have focused on essential maintenance to help young trees thrive during dry periods, including consistent irrigation, the aggressive removal of invasive species, and the prompt replacement of dead saplings to maintain planting density. This deliberate approach allows native flora to adapt and flourish despite Puerto Rico's intense dry seasons. Moving forward, PDC will sustain this momentum by continuing invasive species control and tree replacement while expanding native plantings along the PR-33 corridor.

Protectores de Cuencas Inc. (PDC) is leading a critical reforestation effort to restore the Guánica State Forest, a vital yet wildfire-prone ecosystem in Puerto Rico.

Key Accomplishments (August – November)

Utilizing donor funds, PDC has significantly boosted the production of native, drought-adapted trees to ensure their long-term survival and successful growth in this challenging environment.

Recent activities focused on crucial maintenance to help young trees thrive during dry periods:

• Irrigation: Providing essential water to established plants.

• Invasive Species Management: Aggressively removing non-native plants that compete for resources.

• Tree Replacement: Promptly substituting any dead saplings to maintain planting density.

This deliberate approach is key to the overall success of the project, as it ensures the native flora can adapt and thrive in Puerto Rico's distinct dry forest climate and regular dry seasons.

 In the future:

PDC will sustain this momentum in the coming months by focusing on continuous invasive species control, strategic tree replacement, and expanding native tree plantings along the PR-33 corridor.