Panama
The Islas Secas Foundation (ISF), Moore Charitable’s Panama affiliate, supports marine and avian conservation, research, and habitat protection in the Gulf of Chiriquí area. From mangrove protection and sustainable fishing enforcement to marine preservation and bird and whale surveys, our dedicated partners are building critical conservation stewardship and ensuring the vitality of the Gulf of Chiriqui Marine Biological Corridor – a critical section of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Migratory “Swimway.”
Coastal and Marine Habitat & Species Advocacy and Protection
ISF works with leading conservation partners to protect the region’s most important species and ecosystems, from supporting mangrove restoration and strengthening coastal resilience, to enforcing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)and leading efforts to protect corals, marine mammals, sharks, turtles, and fish. Partners include Wetlands International, International Wildlife Conservation, Panama Wildlife Conservation, CIAM, Shark Conservation Fund, and The Leatherback Project.
Since 2011, ISF has supported Panacetacea’s annual whale research expeditions in the Gulf of Chiriquí, including photo ID work of humpback flukes for individual identification and acoustic recording that contribute to population and species mapping. Data informs the International Whaling Commission’s conservation strategies. ISF funding also supports trainings of local boat captains in sustainable whale-watching practices.
As part of this work, ISF has joined the No A Puerto Barú campaign alongside 60 environmental groups working to protect the Manglares de David. The campaign wants to see the proposed Puerto Barú development built in Puerto Armuelles instead, ensuring that the delicate ecosystems and wildlife of David are not disrupted by the construction and operations of the port.
Scientific Research
ISF supports cutting-edge research that informs area conservation at every level. Alongside the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) and University of Panama in Veraguas, work includes species-specific studies, collaboration with scientists to build a state-of-the-art research station in one of Panama’s most biodiverse areas, and graduate-level training in biology and conservation science to build local capacity.
Environmental Education & Stewardship
To encourage community conservation of the ecologically important coastal wetlands and wildlife in the Gulf of Chiriquí area, we have partnered with Panama Audubon to integrate an environmental curriculum in local schools. ISF also partners on environmental events and festivals in local communities to raise awareness and inspire stewardship of local ecosystems.
Improved Fisheries Management
Supporting partners MarViva and Global Fishing Watch, ISF supports sustainable fisheries planning and implementation in the Gulf of Chiriquí through local fisher education, improved fisheries monitoring and support of the landings data collection system of the Aquatic Resources Authority of Panama. ISF also support projects and campaigns in Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Veraguas for enhanced monitoring, detection, and processing of illicit activities.
Community Partnerships
Islas Secas Foundation has a strong connection with the local community and supports additional school programs, infrastructure projects, and cultural festivities.
Panama News & Impact
At Panama’s 2023 Our Ocean Conference, high-level government officials and senior leaders from conservation NGOs, philanthropic grantmakers and businesses finalized historic commitments to supporting ocean conservation and
Read More
High-level government officials and senior leaders from the private sector, philanthropy, civil society, and academic institutions gathered at Our Ocean 2023 Conference in Panama and
Read More
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has convened its 19th Conference of Parties (CoP19) over two weeks
Read More