The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Caraga Region (DENR-13) and the North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) have partnered to establish a 100-hectare arboretum and for a reforestation initiative in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur.

The arboretum will be dedicated to growing Dipterocarp (flowering) trees, the DENR shared Monday.

“The collaboration was initiated after NEMSU expressed interest in the DENR’s reforestation program,” the DENR said.

The arboretum will encompass diverse ecosystems in San Miguel, including Lanipao and bamboo forests.

NEMSU said the site will provide a unique environment for conservation and academic studies.

DENR-13 Officer-In-Charge Director Maritess Ocampo and NEMSU president Nemesio Loayon signed the memorandum of agreement Feb. 21.

The agreement states that the DENR will conduct surveys and provide technical assistance, while NEMSU will establish nursery facilities and maintain seedlings. (PNA)