There are an estimated 24,000 natural species of orchid making them one of the largest and most diverse groups of flowering plant on earth. Their complex interaction with pollinators, their symbiotic relationship with mycorhiza (fungi) and the diversity of the habitats they survive in have made orchids a subject of scientific facination.

The MLC Orchid Garden will provide an opportunity to cultivate local orchid species in a controlled environment. The garden will provide a reference for species monitoring and identification in Fundo Mascoitania as well as an area for detailed study into orchid life cycles.

A variety of different insects act as pollinators for orchids, including butterflies. The close proximity of the butterfly farm to the orchid garden will allow analysis into the localised relationships between specific species.

The design of the Orchid Garden, together with the expertise gained through its development, will be offered as a resource to local communities interested in sustainable micro-enterprise alternatives to logging and clear and cut farming practises.

The garden will also be used by the CREES Ecology Club to teach local children about the importance of orchids as bioindicators of forest quality.

Stage 1: Design & Construction of the Orchid Garden
A suitable area for the garden will be selected in the grounds of the MLC. The design of the garden itself will take into consideration the habitat conditions and environmental requirements of known local species.

Stage 2: Species Identification and Monitoring Protocols
Data will be collected on existing species found in Fundo Mascoitania as well as the surrounding Pini Pini mountain range to create a reference for species identification. Protocols will be created to keep track of the location of wild orchid specimens and monitor their development and propogation. Protocols will also be devised for the garden itself to provide detailed data for comparative studies with specimens monitored in the wild.

Stage 3: Development of Orchid Farm Micro Enterprise Model
Once the cumulative experience and expertise of the MCL staff is sufficient, the information learned will be used in the development of a micro enterprise model. This model will cover both sustainable orchid farming (for resale) and the the concept of using orchid gardens as tourist attractions and will include a financial study to evaluate the long term viability of entering these markets.

• Education in or experience relating to the development and/or maintenance of an orchid garden
• Bachelors in Ecology or Biology
• English / Spanish Languages
  

Click here to learn more about the application process for Resident Naturalists.

Volunteers can assist the Project Manager and Resident Naturalists in all stages of the Orchid Garden Project.

In the event that volunteers have skills that are specifically applicable to the project, the Project Manager will seek to apply them appropriately.

There are a number of tasks involved in most elements of the Orchid Garden Project that volunteers can get involved in regardless of prior knowledge and experience.

Necessary training and supervision is provided.

Involvement in the project as a volunteer is subject to the statutory one-month minimum stay at the MLC.

Click here to learn more about how to volunteer.