NGO founded: 1992
Partnership with WLT formed: 2006
Organisation’s aim: To manage protected areas in the dry tropical forests of coastal Ecuador, with an emphasis on reforestation, agroforestry, research, environmental education, and ecotourism programmes.
Partner history
Fundación Pro-Bosque was created by a Ministerial decree on November 9, 1992 by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
Partnership with WLT
Pro-Bosque was introduced to WLT at a symposium in the Netherlands in 2006 by mutual partner, IUCN-NL. After discussions with WLT, Pro-Bosque submitted a proposal for help with the reforestation of Cerro Blanco Protected Forest. In 2010, the partnership was extended in order to support Pro-Bosque with land purchase projects.
Other projects and activities
- Running two tree nurseries, one at Cerro Blanco and one at Sigsipamba. Cerro Blanco nursery also has a display room and seed library;
- Running ecotourism and hosting visitors to Cerro Blanco Protected Forest where there are exhibition rooms, guided trails, snack bars and picnic areas;
- Environmental education with local community and youth clubs.
Awards and achievements
1998: Cerro Blanco Protected Forest was declared Ecuador’s second Important Bird Area by BirdLife International, because of the high number of rare, endangered and endemic bird species;
2000: The reserve was named a site of special tourist interest by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism;
2003: Awarded the title of Tourism Company through a pilot certification programme by the Ministry of Tourism and Ecuadorian Ecotourism Association;
2010: Pro-Bosque reserve rangers won second place in two fire fighting competitions organised by the Ecuadorian Ministry of the Environment and Guayaquil Fire Department.
Executive Director: Eric Horstman
