Several years ago, the Seminis research team in Salamá, Guatemala, recognized that local wildlife species were perishing because of increased human activity. The team decided to create a protected wildlife area to raise awareness of biodiversity among workers and local residents.

The team built a new water reservoir for the research center and designated 20 percent of the site for wildlife. Hunting, a popular local activity, was banned at this site. Team members then created habitats for the animals, including specially designed sandbanks for iguana nesting. Since the creation of the wildlife area, many species have made their homes there — iguanas, rabbits, squirrels, armadillos, raccoons, wildcats, opossums, and serpents. Many birds also nest in the reserve, including grackles, pigeons, quails, sparrow hawks, and 3,000 white and gray migratory herons.

The team demonstrated to workers and community members the value of conservation and the benefits of wildlife protection. “We wanted to show our employees and the community that there is a need to protect areas like this,” said Joel Calderón, Salamá site manager. “We are setting the example on this environmental issue in the Salamá Valley, and we want the community to learn from this project.”