La Vega: Conservation & Sustainable Agriculture

Explore conservation and sustainable agriculture in the highlands of the Dominican Republic! Understand agriculture on the island from the colonial era to today. Look at how local communities use sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security and economic activity while also protecting delicate local ecosystems.

Learn how conservation and sustainable agriculture relate to each other in the context of the Dominican Republic. From the pre-colonial era to today, we will explore what has impacted the agriculture sector and conservation efforts on the island. We will look at how local communities are using sustainable agricultural practices to provide food security and economic activity while also protecting delicate local ecosystems.

VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES

Explore caves and freshwater lagoons at a national park
Learn artisanal crafts with a women’s cooperative
Hike in a nature reserve and cool off in a waterfall
Visit an agrotourism farm and learn about apiculture, permaculture, vermiculture, and aquaponics
Meet local community members and discuss organic and eco-friendly farming practices

PROJECT TYPE

Pod-based. Maximum enrollment is 20, with two spots reserved for students from the Dominican Republic.

CLIMATE

Cool in the highlands, warm near the coast

FOOD

la bandera – a typical Dominican meal with rice, beans, and salad
tostones – flattened, fried plantains

SPANISH

This project will be led in Spanish and English, so at least two years of high school Spanish (or equivalent) is required. Earn 40 service hours!