The Nature Conservancy - Parks in Peril
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Dominican Republic

Del Este National Park

Jaragua National Park

Madre de las Aguas


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Dominican Republic

With four rugged mountain ranges spanning the country, the Dominican Republic’s topography has created exceptionally high levels of endemism and biodiversity. At the beginning of the 20th century, nearly 85 percent of the country was forested. Now, 90 percent of the original forest has been cleared for agriculture and urban development. The first national park, José Armando Bermúdez, was established in 1956, yet no further parks were designated until the 1970s, when the government established the National Directorate of Parks. Today, protected areas account for 13 percent of the country’s land area. 

Saona Island

Saona Island, Del Este National Park © Connie Gelb

did you know

The offshore wildlife in the Dominican Republic is as spectacular as that onshore, with its waters being home to manatees, humpback whales, and six species of sea turtles.

Dominican Republic Partner Organizations

Many organizations in the Dominican Republic have formed to address the threats of uncontrolled tourism and a rapidly growing population on over-pressured ecosystems. In the Dominican Republic, PiP has strengthened key partner organizations to form the foundation of the conservation community.

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Del Este National Park

With its diverse natural and human history, Del Este National Park is the most visited park in the entire country.  Learn more...

Jaragua National Park  

Jaragua is the largest national park in the Dominican Republic and encompasses both terrestrial and marine communities.  Learn more...

Madre de las Aguas Conservation Area

Madre de las Aguas Conservation Area encompasses five national parks and covers almost 5 percent of the country’s land area.  Learn more...