About Us
The Coalition for the Restoration of Santurcean Ecosystems (CRES) of Puerto Rico is an organization dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the ecosystems of Santurce Neighborhood (known until 1862 as Crabs neighborhood), in the Los Santos region, one of the most biodiverse and ecologically significant areas of the island.
CRESpr works to promote sustainable practices that ensure the health and integrity of these vital ecosystems.
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Our Team
The CRES team is comprised of a diverse group of professionals passionate about conservation and sustainability. It includes biologists, ecologists, anthropologists, historians, educators, and community leaders who work together to carry out the organization's mission.
Main Members
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Scientific Director: Oversees the execution of specific scientific research, restoration and conservation projects.
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Executive Director: Manages the organization and coordinates the implementation of community conservation strategies and projects.
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Biologists, Ecologists and other Scientists: Participate in scientific research and provide technical advice on best restoration practices.
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Agricultural Educators: Develop and implement Natural Agriculture educational programs for the general public and local schools.
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Bio-Construction Educators: Develop and implement Bio-Sustainable Construction programs for the general public to reduce the impact on the ecosystem.
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Volunteers and Collaborators: Contribute their time and effort to support CRES initiatives and encourage community participation.
Our Story
Mission:
The mission of CRES (PR) is to protect, restore, and conserve Puerto Rico's santurcean ecosystems through community collaboration, scientific research, and environmental education.
Vision:
The organization aspires to a future where santurcean ecosystems are resilient, biodiverse and protected for the well-being of present and future generations.
Founders, leaders and mentors
Juan David Murcia Eslava
Coastal Marine Biologist graduated from the University of Puerto Rico, UPR in Humacao.
Paola S. Cimadevilla
Natural Agriculture Education Leader, working at Finca Plato Indio, Las Marías.
Yvette M. Núñez Sepúlveda
Anthropologist and Art Historian University of Puerto Rico, Rio de Piedras Campus, UPRRP
Derrick Hernández
Leader in Bio-Construction and sustainability, operating in Finca Plato Indio, Las Marías.
Dr. Thomas J. Goreau- Arango
President of Global Coral Reef Alliance, Consultant, Expert in Geotherapy Techniques.
Impact
The Coalition for the Restoration of Santurcean Ecosystems has made a significant impact on the preservation and restoration of these critical ecosystems in Puerto Rico.
Through their work, they have contributed to the recovery of important habitats, increased public awareness of the importance of conservation, and strengthened the resilience of local communities in the face of environmental challenges.
Focus Areas
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Ecological Restoration: Implement projects to restore degraded areas, rehabilitating natural habitats and reintroducing native species.
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Biodiversity Conservation: Protect the region's biological diversity by creating protected areas and promoting sustainable conservation practices.
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Education and Awareness: Organize educational programs to increase awareness of the importance of the Saturcine ecosystems and how to protect them.
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Scientific Research: Conduct research to better understand saturcan ecosystems and develop effective conservation and restoration strategies.
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Community Involvement: Work closely with local communities to involve them in conservation and restoration efforts.
Featured Projects
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Mangrove Forestation and Reforestation: Project to restore degraded mangroves and beaches, vital for coastal protection and marine biodiversity.
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Endangered Species Protection: Initiatives to protect and rehabilitate endangered native species, such as the Puerto Rican Parrot.
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Community Education: Workshops and educational activities to involve the community in the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources.
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Ecosystem Monitoring: Monitoring programs to assess the health of Saturcine ecosystems and guide restoration strategies.