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 effort ensures the museum's identity and establishes guidelines for its operation. The organization has obtained non-profit status 1101 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.
In August 2024, the team worked with legislators to developed of Law 69 of 2024 which promotes the natural history of our achipelago of Puerto Rico and designates October as the month of Natural History.
“We are proud to work in this united effort for our natural history, our island’s beautiful resources and our legacy to our children”