Galápagos Conservancy’s Board of Directors Affirms Its Commitment to the Long-Term Conservation of the Galápagos Archipelago
The Board of Directors of Galápagos Conservancy (GC) visited the Galápagos Islands to evaluate the progress and effects of conservation projects funded and implemented by the organization. During the visit, Board members confirmed the effectiveness of Galápagos Conservancy’s programs as implemented by its operating arm, the Conservando Galápagos Foundation, and reaffirmed their dedication to supporting the long-term protection of the archipelago’s ecosystems and promoting harmony with the local community.
Meetings with partner organizations were an important component of the visit. One such meeting at the Galápagos National Park Directorate (DPNG) reviewed the progress, successes, and future needs of projects funded by GC to DPNG, which is responsible for managing the archipelago’s protected marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The partners reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with park rangers to contribute to the recovery of threatened species in Galápagos.
Additionally, the board conducted a protocol visit to the Charles Darwin Foundation, with whom GC currently cooperates through a major grant for a marine ecosystem monitoring project. Representatives of the Charles Darwin Foundation welcomed the GC Board members to the research station, provided an overview of the progress being made by the funded marine project, and provided a tour through CDF’s impressive plant and vertebrate collections. GC Board members, many of them new to the organization, appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the Charles Darwin Foundation and extend the partnership.
During their visit, Board members also toured the facilities of the Agency for the Regulation and Control of Biosecurity and Quarantine for Galápagos (ABG), who emphasized Galápagos Conservancy’s dedication to providing support to help ABG control and eradicate invasive species. GC Board members understood the importance of and fully support ABG’s initiatives. Jean-Pierre Cadena, ABG’s Executive Director, highlighted the value of Galápagos Conservancy’s active participation in combating invasive species during the visit.
A further highlight of the Board’s visit was their active participation in the second Conservation Actions Fair. At this event, attendees had the chance to learn about the many projects funded by Galápagos Conservancy in the community. The fair included booths run by various beneficiaries, including male and female entrepreneurs, and partner institutions such as the Galápagos National Park Directorate and the Agency for the Regulation and Control of Biosecurity and Quarantine for Galápagos. The fair included a cultural event featuring local artistic talent that strengthened attendees’ commitment to protecting and promoting the sustainable development of Galápagos.
A final highlight included a Board visit Floreana Island to learn about efforts to eradicate cats and rats on the island in anticipation of introducing Giant Tortoises being reared as part of GC’s Iniciativa Galapagos program next year. The Board also met with the first WISE project awarded on the island, which has around 150 residents and a student population of 30 children and adolescents. This project involves establishing the island’s first public library, which was also aided by book donations brought by Board members.
Established in 1985, Galápagos Conservancy has been solely dedicated to protecting the Galápagos Islands for the long term. The Board of Directors visits Galápagos every two years to monitor and evaluate conservation actions carried out by our organization. Dr. Dan Sherman, President of the Board, emphasized our pride in collaborating closely with our strategic partners and supporting the implementation of local conservation initiatives. He also reaffirmed our strong commitment to continue working towards the recovery of endangered species, habitat restoration, and the development of sustainable communities in the Galápagos.
