What if the key to Puerto Rico’s food security was hidden in its seeds? Thanks to support from Banco de Alimentos, Feeding America, and Para la Naturaleza, the Desde mi Huerto Seed Bank in Isabela is now fully operational – providing locally adapted, resilient seeds to farmers and communities across the island.
Why a Seed Bank Matters
Puerto Rico’s farmers have long faced challenges due to climate change, soil degradation, and reliance on imported seeds. The Desde mi Huerto Seed Bank is changing that by:
✅ Preserving and distributing native and heirloom seeds
✅ Helping farmers build resilience against extreme weather, pests, and diseases
✅ Promoting sustainable agricultural practices for future generations
With support from our partners, this initiative ensures that farmers have access to high-quality, locally adapted seeds—empowering them to grow food more sustainably and strengthen Puerto Rico’s agricultural future.
A Growing Legacy
The Seed Bank has already:
🌱 Processed and stored thousands of seeds for long-term preservation, ensuring their availability for future harvests. A state-of-the-art walk-in refrigerator and freezer allow seeds to remain viable for up to 10 years, creating a lasting reserve for local farmers.
🏡 Provided essential seed varieties to over 50 farmers, supplying them with resilient, locally adapted seeds that will help them cultivate their land and sustain their livelihoods. These seeds are carefully selected for their resistance to pests and diseases, reducing reliance on harmful chemicals.
📚 Engaged 30 schools in educational programs focused on seed diversity, food security, and sustainable farming practices, helping to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders.
👩🌾 Trained 20 participants in a specialized seed management course, equipping farmers and community members with the skills needed to collect, store, and propagate seeds effectively, ensuring long-term sustainability.
🔗 Built a network of “Seed Guardians”—a group of farmers who maintain and exchange native seed varieties to preserve biodiversity and promote traditional farming practices. This collaborative effort helps safeguard genetic diversity, ensuring that heirloom and native seeds remain part of Puerto Rico’s agricultural landscape.
🏗️ Transformed an abandoned school into a fully equipped seed bank, installing solar panels, a generator, and security systems to maintain energy-efficient and secure operations.
These achievements are only possible because of generous support. It is not just helping farmers grow crops—it’s nurturing communities, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring Puerto Rico’s food sovereignty for generations to come.
Be Part of the Future
Every seed holds the potential to feed a family, sustain a farm, and rebuild our agricultural landscape. Your generosity makes this possible.
🌱 Join us in growing a stronger, more resilient Puerto Rico. Donate today.
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