Our Organization
The Museum of Natural History and Conservation of Puerto Rico (MHNPR) was founded by the Torres Ramirez family, long-time residents of Aguadilla, who have dedicated their resources and efforts to leave a lasting legacy on the natural history of Puerto Rico. They have been joined in its development by a distinguished group of professionals, including Dr. Hernán Santos from the University of Puerto Rico, Dr. Jorge Vélez Juarbe from the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles, California, Dr. Michael Gonzalez Cruz, a sociology professor at the University of Puerto Rico, and historian Haydee Reichard.
The museum's mission is built upon collaboration with the Municipality of Aguadilla, universities, NGO’s, private entities, and the community at large. Together, the museum aims to educate through diverse topics in geosciences and life sciences. Recognizing the value of exhibiting Puerto Rico’s unique natural history, our collaborators and museum staff have invested diverse resources in showcasing the natural domains of the archipelago in our museum.
In August 2022, the museum was officially incorporated as the "Museo de Historia Natural y Conservación de Puerto Rico" by the Puerto Rico Department of State.
This legal recognition ensures the museum's identity and establishes guidelines for its operation. The organization has obtained non-profit status from the Puerto Rico tax exemption agency and has achieved certification as a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization in the United States.
The Museum Board is comprised by Maribel Ramírez Toledo (President), co-founders Dr. Jorge Vélez Juarbe (Vice-President) and Dr. Hernán Santos Mercado, Dr. Michael González Cruz (Secretary), Dr. Emilia Quiñones, Ms. Ana Rivera, and other members of the community at large and academia.
The Municipality of Aguadilla has approved the use of the first and second floors of the Historical Archive building for the Museum of Natural History and Conservation of Puerto Rico, and it’s involved in plans to expand our valuable collaborations, including cooperative measures by the municipal assembly.
“We are proud to work in this united effort for our natural history, our island’s beautiful resources and our legacy to our children”
Our Museum
The museum has already begun preconceptual of the available space, starting with exhibits on minerals, rock types, tectonic history, earthquakes, and volcanoes, gradually transitioning to sedimentary rocks, fossils, and their evolutionary connection to present-day Puerto Rico. The organization has recently engaged Aldrich Pears to develop a comprehensive Master Plan, including conceptual floor plans, specific goals, identification of interpretive resources, engagement of community stakeholders, and the creation of captivating visitor experiences. Collaborative agreements with the University of Puerto Rico Geology departments, Red Seismic, and other related organizations are ongoing. A preliminary review of current university inventory of rocks, paleontological specimens, and earthquake information will play a significant role in the museum's exhibitions.
