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Para la Naturaleza gives away 4,000 native and endemic trees during La Siembra 

(Río Piedras) – Today, Saturday September 7, the organization Para la Naturaleza celebrated La Siembra with the theme Trees that amaze. This annual event of massive tree distribution aims to promote reforestation and educate citizens about the importance of planting to mitigate the effects of climate change and strengthen the health of the biodiversity of the archipelago of Puerto Rico.  

During the activity that was held at the Luis Muñoz Marín Park in San Juan, the organization distributed 4,000 native and endemic trees to participants. Among the species handed out were: acerola, cacao, carambola, guanabana, guava, jobo, malagueta, button mangrove, papaya, native oak (white), yellow elder and tamarind.  

“With the high temperatures and the adverse effects of climate change, trees have proven to be our greatest allies. Their shade protects us from the heat and their presence inspires us to care for and value the biodiversity of Puerto Rico,” said Fernando Lloveras San Miguel, President of Para la Naturaleza.  

In addition to the distribution of trees, the activity included educational modules by reforestation specialists who guided the public on how and where to plant their tree and which species is best suited for each need and space. There were also activities and storytelling for children by the organization Lee Conmigo and writer Pamy Rojas. 

Zair Díaz and his father came to the activity to pick guava, tamarind and malagueta trees. “I want shade, and I have space to plant in my yard, it is super important to join this activity to support reforestation to lower the heat,” commented these attendees to the event.  

For their part, Dana and Andrea took pomegranate, tamarind, guanabana and cocoa trees. “We have to continue improving the environment in any way we can, and we took this opportunity to collect our trees for free,” said Dana.  

Para la Naturaleza has five native and endemic tree nurseries around Puerto Rico where people can purchase trees year-round. 

Native and endemic trees offer numerous benefits: they beautify the environment, provide nutritious fruit, support local agriculture, replenish aquifers, prevent flooding, improve air quality and serve as a refuge for wildlife. In addition, they are more adaptable and resilient to extreme weather conditions, such as storms and hurricanes. They are also an invaluable legacy for future generations. 

There are some 750 tree species in Puerto Rico, of which 547 are native and 141 are endemic.  

For more information about La Siembra and the Para la Naturaleza nurseries, visit www.pln.org or the organization’s social networks.

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