New conservation pact aims to protect cloud forest species in southern Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Dr. Rafael M. Moscoso National Botanical Garden (JBN), Grupo Jaragua, and Finca Catheline have signed a collaboration agreement to conserve native species of the mountain cloud forest in the southern Dominican Republic. The initiative aims to enhance ecosystem resilience and promote sustainable development in the region.

As part of the agreement, a specialized nursery will be established at Finca Catheline, located in La Elba, Santa Elena, Barahona. This facility will focus on propagating and preserving native and endemic plants. Farm owner Charlie Catheline, JBN director Pedro Suárez, and Grupo Jaragua president Sixto Incháustegui emphasized that the project will benefit both biodiversity and local communities.

Initial conservation efforts will include species such as the Coquito Palm, Green Ebony, Bolo Palm, and Almond, among others. Future plans involve expanding forest cover, launching reforestation and education campaigns, conducting floral inventories, and formalizing Finca Catheline as a private protected area. The project highlights the power of public-private partnerships in protecting the country’s natural heritage.