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San Cristobal Biological Reserve
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Galapagos Giant Tortoise
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:: Habitat and Location
The San Cristobal Biological Station was opened on the island San Cristobal, in the Galapagos chain, in April 2003. The new reserve site is located in the highlands of the island, on a 200 hectare site where there is still native vegetation. The wildlife of the Galapagos islands, as noted by Charles Darwin, is unique, including such unusual species as the Galapagos giant tortoise, Galapagos penguin and the marine iguana. Despite the threat posed by introduced species, 95% of the islands' original biodiversity is still intact.
Volunteers will work on both habitat restoration and developing ecologically sound agricultural practice while at the reserve. In addition foundation staff will lead volunteers on various destination hikes to a nearby lagoon, native forests, beaches, and the local villages to explain the ecological and human dynamic of the Galapagos islands. Opportunities to work on group research and monitoring projects will be developed.
:: San Cristobal Research Station Programs
Reconstruction of Natural Habitat
Our partner foundation has worked to develop reforestation, habitat reconstruction, and agroforestry activities utilizing native species for the last 18 years throughout Ecuador. Consistent with past work, one of the objectives of this new station will be to develop the technology to reconstruct native habitat in the highlands on San Cristobal, and to serve as a center for similar projects in the highlands on other populated islands in the Galapagos chain. The remaining native highland forests on the populated islands are limited due to farming activities in general, and the introduction of useful, but very invasive, species from the mainland such as tropical cedar and Cinchona. The foundation has established a Plant Conservation Center for the production of native plant species for this work.
Agricultural Production Program
The foundation will be working collaboratively with local landowners to develop clean agricultural alternatives for the production of vegetables and fruits to sell to local universities, restaurants, and hotels. Due to the extensive importation of products from the mainland, invasive species are entering the Galapagos on a daily basis. The agricultural production program will be initiated this year.
To apply for this program, click here.
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