EYE ON THE RAINFOREST

 With the current global concern for tropical deforestation, the role that this project can play in improving the understanding of tropical forests’ biology and sustainable management of secondary forests is more vital than ever.

Forest cover stabilizes soils in areas where there are steep slopes and erosion issues created by past agricultural practices and over-grazing. Forest cover keeps sediments from silting rivers, reservoirs, and from damaging coastal marine and coral reef ecosystems. Through hydrological mechanisms, forests deeply and directly affect many island economic activities, like fishing, and all tourism that depends on healthy ecosystems. Puerto Rico’s forests provide ecotourism and recreational opportunities for a rapidly growing urban population. The forests are increasingly under pressure, and it is our profound obligation to use our resources as wisely as possible.