Galapagos National Park
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In 1959, Ecuador designated 97% of the land area of Galapagos as a National Park, and then in 1986. The Galapagos Marine Reservewas created in 1998, by the Special Law for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Galapagos Province. The islands have been recognised internationally as a Man and Biosphere Reserve, and as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The Galapagos Islands remain well preserved as a natural environment in large part due National Park Rules. These rules are established by the Galapagos National Park Services, and enforced by park wardens and trained guides. The following rules are excerpted from a National Park Services brochure.
[edit] National Park Rules
- No plant, animal, or remains of such (including shells, bones, and pieces of wood), or other natural objects should not be removed or disturbed.
- Be careful not to transport any live material to the islands, or from island to island.
- Do not take any food to the uninhabited islands, for the same reason.
- Do not touch or handle the animals.
- Do not feed the animals. It can be dangerous to you, and in the long run would destroy the animals' social structure and breeding habits.
- Do not startle or chase any animal from its resting or nesting spot.
- Stay within the areas designated as visiting sites.
- Do not leave any litter on the islands, or throw any off your boat.
- Do not deface the rocks.
- Do not buy souvenirs or objects made of plants or animals from the islands.
- Do not visit the islands unless accompanied by a licensed National Park Guide.
- Show your conservationist attitude.
- Restrict your visits to officially approved areas.
