Ipo Watershed is a critical part of the Umiray-Angat-Ipo watershed system that supplies 98% of Metro Manila's water. The forest cover of the watershed provides many ecosystem services. Unfortunately, only less than 40% of forest cover remains.
Our learning visits are designed to educate participants about the value of our forests and watersheds, and forest restoration and nursery management.
🌳 ABOUT THE TREK
The trek from the jump-off to the reforestation site is about 5-6hrs roundtrip consisting of moderate sloped trails. Closer to the reforestation site, there are some portions of ascents and descents. Several small streams will also be crossed as we approach our nursery. Participants do need some level of fitness or at least some hiking experience to participate.
Volunteers will be guided by forest rangers. Along the trail, they will be able to observe the biodiversity of Sierra Madre and a beautiful vantage of Metro Manila and Bulacan. They will learn about environmental conservation topics such as watersheds, trees and reforestation.
The fee is Php 800/person for a minimum group of 8 people. This will include native seedlings to plant (during planting season only from June-Dec), and will contribute to the conservation of the area given that the fees will go towards sustaining salaries of forest rangers tasked to manage and protect the area. Outside the planting season, participants will help out in tree nurturing activities. You may also bring in-kind donations for our Support-a-Ranger program such as: medicine supplies for rangers and their families, food subsidies (i.e. rice), gear and equipment (i.e. uniforms, tech), and others.
Payment is non-refundable, and can only be rescheduled/rebooked shall there be an emergency (i.e. natural calamity/travel restrictions/medical emergency). This is a rain or shine activity, unless the site is affected by a storm signal or the forest rangers decide it is unsafe to push through. Slots are also transferrable to another person.
After submitting this form, we will send you an email to confirm date availability and give more details about the activity.
🌳 ABOUT THE PROJECT
Eco Explorations was granted an agreement by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to reforest a 30-hectare area in Mt. Balagbag part of Ipo Watershed. Currently, through our partner NGO Philippine Parks and Biodiversity and through the support of Forest Foundation Philippines, we are employing a team of forest rangers who are focused on nursery management, forest restoration, and forest protection.
