Orchid Conservation in Guatemala
Donation protected
Rescue and Conservation of Orchids of Guatemala
The Orchid Experimental Station of the Archila Family was created in 1970 with the goal of rescuing, protecting and preserving the orchids of Guatemala. After 50 years of work, the station now has approximately 35,000 orchids rescued from logged forests, along with 10,000 plants of other families, that is to say approximately 14% of the plant diversity of the country. This includes 50 species that no longer exist in nature and many more that are threatened. To date we have managed and maintained this collection with our own funds. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Guatemalan government took the decision to suspend internal travel rendering the centers of employment out of our reach and we have not been able to work since the start of the pandemic. The requested funds will be used to pay employees of the station and for the purchase of equipment and consumables (fertilizers, fungicides etc.) during the period May to Dec 2020. At a minimum this will cost approximately $600 per month, giving a total for the period of $4800. These funds will contribute to the protection of the orchid collection, the natural treasure of Guatemala and all humanity, and will prevent the closure of the station and the need to lay-off the employees.
The Orchid Experimental Station of the Archila Family was created in 1970 with the goal of rescuing, protecting and preserving the orchids of Guatemala. After 50 years of work, the station now has approximately 35,000 orchids rescued from logged forests, along with 10,000 plants of other families, that is to say approximately 14% of the plant diversity of the country. This includes 50 species that no longer exist in nature and many more that are threatened. To date we have managed and maintained this collection with our own funds. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Guatemalan government took the decision to suspend internal travel rendering the centers of employment out of our reach and we have not been able to work since the start of the pandemic. The requested funds will be used to pay employees of the station and for the purchase of equipment and consumables (fertilizers, fungicides etc.) during the period May to Dec 2020. At a minimum this will cost approximately $600 per month, giving a total for the period of $4800. These funds will contribute to the protection of the orchid collection, the natural treasure of Guatemala and all humanity, and will prevent the closure of the station and the need to lay-off the employees.
Organizer
Mark Wilson
Organizer
Colorado Springs, CO
