El_Portal_Visitor_Center_&_Community_Center_Interpretive_and_Exhibit_Plan_Concepts_August_2018.pdf

90 % DRAFT Page 1

Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, 2017

El Portal Visitor & Community Center Interpretive and

Exhibit Plan Concepts

United States Department of Agriculture

Forest Service El Yunque National Forest, October 2018

David Culp photographer

CONTENTS

Introduction

Vision and Interpretive Goals for El Portal Planning Assumptions

Interpretive Statements

Interpretive Topics, Subthemes, Exhibit Goals, and Storylines

Visitor Use at El Portal and El Yunque National Forest

Pre-hurricane Visitation (2016) Post Hurricane Visitation (2017)

Site Map and Use Areas

Design Guidelines

Signs at El Yunque National Forest

Design Narrative and Exhibit Recommendations

Arrival: Trails and Parking Lot Signs Reception, Communications, and Community Connection Atrium Exhibitry Atrium and Pavilion Floor Concepts Pop-up Concepts Hands On: Active Play and Discovery Community Celebrations Theater Active Hands-On (Play) and Discovery Experiences Group Learning Area Pavilions Outdoor Garden Roaming Spaces Parrot Display

Project Planning and Phasing for Completion

Phase 1: Exhibit design, fabrication and installation of all interior exhibits of El Portal Phase 2: Design and development, fabrication of all exterior sign panels for trails, parking or site orientation needs Phase 3: Audio Visual and Film Production

Summary

Acknowledgments

Appendix A - Interelated Themes for Portalito Sites

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CATALINA AND EL PORTAL REVITALIZATION PROGRAM

EL YUNQUE NATIONAL FOREST

Forest Service

El Portal and Catalina

PROJECT PROGRAMMING

Draft submitted: June 4, 2018 Revised: June 29, 2018

Document Prepared by:

RMA Architects, PSC in collaboration with:

OLA, Office of Landscape Architecture Alpha Corp.

Interface Engineering, Inc.

Mc Mullan and Associates ECS Florida US Rib Cost

Introduction

El Portal Rain Forest Center (El Portal) is the major visitor center of El Yunque National Forest on the island of Puerto Rico. First opened in 1996, it is now in need of an update and revitalization. The visitor center is a priority for El Yunque National Forest, partners and community.

In 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria caused structural damage to the building resulting in the need for major building repairs and reconstruction. This delayed the design and installation of new interpretive displays that was set for fall of 2018.

This 90% interpretive and exhibit plan incorporates information gathered from multiple collaborative meetings 2014–2018; the 2014 CHM Evaluation of El Portal Rain Forest Center Summary Report; and comments to the August 2017 50% plan.

This plan will drive our shared vision for success, which relies upon creative designs for new exhibits that are flexible, adaptable, and portable, and allow for expansion and contraction to incorporate programming and events into the space for dynamic interpretive experiences. The intent is for all exhibits, programs, and events to create an enhanced appreciation of El Yunque National Forest and the many local connections to the land. Goals for this revitalization include:

1. Cultural arts, heritage, and connection to local communities: Puerto Ricans have expressed a desire to share cultural experiences and local stories with visitors. Likewise, tourism professionals and travelers have expressed a desire to engage with local people and the heritage of Puerto Rico.

2. World-class displays interpretive exhibits: The new exhibits need to be engaging, dynamic, and part of the visitor experience at the center. Location of exhibits should be considered in the context of how they will complement the cultural connections, attract visitors, and withstand high humidity, heat, and hurricanes.

3. Make El Portal community center and an introduction to El Yunque: Various options to spread out community activities and visitor engagement are introduced, along with areas targeted for specific activities.

4. Collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Forestry (IITF): Work together to incorporate new research findings into visitor center programming and use citizen science to gain support for IITF that allows expansion of partnership and a volunteer docent program.

El Portal will continue to serve as the portal visitor center gateway into El Yunque National Forest with a focus on collaborative design, programming, and co-management in cooperation with partners and community members. The center will provide visitor orientation and information, exhibits, audiovisual and education opportunities, live demonstrations, and docent programs.

Interpretive themes, goals, and objectives established in this document will serve as the basis for exhibit development and the establishment of priorities.

Vision and Interpretive Goals for El Portal El Portal de El Yunque, the gateway to El Yunque National Forest, provides an engaging destination and enjoyable dynamic learning environment.

To achieve this vision, the interpretive goals include:

1. Provide visitor orientation and trip planning information to help visitors experience a world class visit to El Yunque National Forest.

2. Offer learning experiences enlivened by interactive community exhibits, multiple forms of media and communications, classroom/workshop space, recreational facilities, and personal interpretation.

3. Provide excitement and entertainment for visitors of all ages including activities and/or facilities tailored to youth.

4. Encourage repeat visitation from local Puerto Rico residents.

5. Collaborate with partners to expand programming and stewardship for El Portal.

6. Become more visible and inviting with improved promotions, an enhanced entrance experience, and an adjusted fee structure.

To achieve these interpretive goals, the Forest Service and partners will be guided in developing interpretive messages and programs by the following measurable objectives:

Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, October 2018 Page 3

El Portal Visitor Center in 2017

At the conclusion of their visit to El Portal, the majority of visitors will:

1. Feel welcomed to El Yunque National Forest and feel it is their forest to use and enjoy.

2. Understand that El Yunque National Forest is a place for partners and community members to celebrate their natural resources and participate in decision making.

3. Be able to identify recreation opportunities in the area, as well appropriate uses of those resources.

4. Recognize the unique cultural and natural history of the area and changes in the landscape over time.

5. Be inspired to visit areas and seek opportunities on El Yunque and in surrounding communities beyond El Portal and the 191 corridor.

6. Be inspired to treat El Yunque and the natural areas of Puerto Rico with respect and stewardship.

7. Feel safe and equipped to enjoy a meaningful visit to their forest.

Orienting the visitor and preparing them to visit and appreciate El Yunque is a core element of interpretive programming. However, all wayfinding exhibits and maps should also include interpretive elements.

El Portal exhibits should use a variety of interpretive media and multiple delivery methods. The Forest Service and partners should strive for immediate comprehension of exhibits by making them highly visual, graphic, and interactive. Exhibits need to tie to interpretive themes that cover the important ecological elements of the tropical rainforest with a specific focus on the elements that are identifiable by the public (e.g. flora and fauna).

The exhibit design needs to include static exhibits and well as some that are mobile and can be relocated to other areas of the visitor center as the need arises.

Exhibits should allow for further inquiry related to the main themes that can be done on site or at home.

Opportunities for deeper learning could be offered through digital media (e.g., mobile app, multi-media presentations), guided tours, and/or special programming (e.g., classes, workshops, lecture series, live animal displays).

Given the forest’s limited staffing, the Forest Service could function as a host to highlight El Portal as a venue where partners, educators, and entertainers could offer mission and theme-related programming.

Planning Assumptions The following assumptions apply to exhibit design, fabrication, and installation:

• All designs shall address and accommodate environmental conditions of high moisture, intense heat, and high visitor use. Simplicity in design while maximizing function is an important feature in this facility.

• All narratives shall be represented in both English and Spanish.

• All exhibits shall incorporate and address accessibility concerns and serve a variety of ages, readers, and abilities.

• Exhibits must be low maintenance, requiring minimal staff oversight or management.

• Concrete flooring on the main Atrium and Pavilion levels is available for coloration, embedded images, or varying textures based upon what concrete flooring can allow.

• A large, metal earth sculpture (an original exhibit) will need to be incorporated as part of the new exhibits, but in a different location.

• All electrical outlets will be located on walls or columns; no outlets will be located within the flooring.

• Food carts will provide a variety of snacks and experiences in the center.

• Designers will keep in mind Puerto Rico's political status and the passion felt about it, and consultat before using terms words such as "colonialism," "invasion," "possession," and similar terms in the exhibits.

Above: Atrium level after 2017 hurricanes

Left: Globe sculpture

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Interpretive Statements

Perhaps the most powerful tool in interpretation and interpretive planning is the interpretive theme. Effective interpretive themes help to cohesively develop meaningful ideas and provide consistency in planning.

A central theme helps to tie together information and ideas that are presented to visitors and is the principal message that we want to deliver to our audience. A central theme provides the foundation of every presentation or program, no matter what media are used.

The central theme for El Portal is:

El Portal is the gateway to the El Yunque National Forest, a landscape rich in resources shaped by rainfall and carved by rivers, cared for through shared stewardship by the Forest Service, partners, and communities to enhance biodiversity and celebrate local history and culture.

Interpretive Topics, Subthemes, Exhibit Goals, and Storylines

1) Topic: Human interactions and impacts on the Forest

Subtheme: People have been drawn to and relied upon El Yunque National Forest for centuries, playing a role in the way the forest looks today and impacting its future.

Woven tightly, the forest and the communities are truly intertwined.

Exhibit Goals—Visitors will be able to:

• Recognize the historic human actions in Puerto Rico and El Yunque, and see the present implications.

• Realize the extensive logging practices that occurred and the reforestation efforts that begin in the 1940s.

• Understand how the Taino people relied on their environment

• Comprehend the human settlement of Puerto Rico and the political systems that created current conditions.

• Appreciate that the U.S. Forest Service maintains ongoing scientific research for tropical rainforests and works to restore natural landscapes; preserve ecological systems and support rural economies.

Storylines:

a) Human interactions with the El Yunque rainforest play a primary role in the types of tree species seen in the forest today.

» Used as a resource by early Taino people » Logging of tropical woods in 1940s » Reforestation efforts » Human requirements for ecosystem

b) Community connections mean developing parallel initiatives for the conservation of privately owned forest lands around El Yunque and working with landowners to maintain and improve their lands (i.e. rural, forested, mixed uses) by participating in land conservation programs.

Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, October 2018 Page 5

» Define “services” » Impacts of decisions » Community Interface Resource Management Area (CIRMA) model of involvement with decision-makers.

c) Human history on the island dates back beyond 2,000 years. The settlement of Puerto Rico began with the establishment of the Ortoiroid culture and later the Arawak around AD 600 based on recent excavations believed to be from the Taino (a subgroup of the Arawak Indians who migrated to the Caribbean from Mexico or South America hundreds of years ago). Taino petroglyphs found on the forest and their significance is an important story of Puerto Rican culture, while protection of these petroglyphs remains critical.

d) Puerto Rico was part of the Spanish Empire from the early years (1493–1898) and a major military post through the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, while many European countries vied for power until in 1898.

e) During the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico became a territory of the United States.

f) The establishment of El Yunque National Forest and the Luquillo Experimental Forest, has been extremely valuable to the world’s understanding of how tropical forests function. It is perhaps the most well studied tropical forest in the world and, continues to produce new knowledge through its role as a Forest Service experimental forest.

g) Throughout Puerto Rico and within El Yunque National Forest, there are many buildings and facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s that improving recreation opportunities and reforestation efforts.

h) U.S. military history runs throughout the 19th century in El Yunque with old building remains left on El Yunque today.

2) Topic: Climate Change and Conservation

Sub-theme: The impacts of climate change can be seen and felt in El Yunque National Forest; only by working together and sharing stewardship, can we conserve our cherished tropical rainforest.

Exhibit Goals—Visitors will be able to:

• Gain an understanding of specific conditions as a result of temperature and climate changes.

• Understand the risks to Puerto Rico, its people and natural resources, and the surrounding islands and oceans.

• Demonstrate an awareness of current research into climate models, impacts, and solutions.

• Realize the vulnerability of small islands and the populations that depend on its resources.

• Experience a tangible connection between their behaviors and how they affect climate change.

Storylines:

a) Complex scientific models predict increasing temperatures, rising sea levels, and shifting rainfall patterns, resulting in more intense tropical storms and hurricanes as extreme weather patterns continue to emerge across the globe and the Caribbean.

b) Climate change impacts recreation and tourism. For example, extreme events such as heavy rains and precipitation caused landslides in El Yunque National Forest damaging trails, natural infrastructure, etc. On coastal areas, sea level rise is accelerating beach erosion processes, impacting highly frequented areas.

c) Current and projected temperature changes are large enough to affect temperature-sensitive crops, species, and ecosystems, while the combined effects of changes in temperature and precipitation are likely to increase the demand for energy, the risk of water stress and drought, and the risk of impacts from heavy rainfall events.

d) Climate change demands human adaptations and mitigations that take large-scale planning and resource development efforts

e) Scarcity of water for irrigation increases the salinization of aquifers.

» Loss of coastal agricultural lands » Increased incidence of pests due to changes in temperature and humidity

› Increased the vulnerability of agrosystems to pests and introduced species › Impacts to agriculture › Social vulnerability of Puerto Rican farmers › Food insecurity

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f) Ongoing research by the International Institute of Tropical Forest provides new data on climate and impacts to tropical rainforests worldwide in order to develop better conservation techniques that benefit both people and the environment.

g) To protect biodiversity and essential ecosystem services, conservation will need to anticipate the human response to climate change and to focus not only on resistance and resilience, but on transitions to new states and new ecosystems.

3) Topic: Water—From Ridge to Reef

Sub-theme: Throughout history, water has been the driving force of El Yunque National Forest, shaping the landscape and communities of El Yunque and Puerto Rico by supporting matchless habitats, and sustaining life from the ridge-top cloud forests to the colorful coral reefs.

Exhibit Goals—Visitor will be able to:

• Recognize that the entire island and views are all sustained by the magic of water.

• Learn that there are a variety of forests within the actual rainforest.

• Gain an understanding about the watershed and cloud forest of the island.

• Realize the interconnection of the mountain to the coral reef.

• Realize the vulnerability of small islands and the populations that depend on the water cycle and the dangers of pollution and contamination.

• Experience a tangible connection between their behaviors and effects to water quality.

• Articulate that fresh water from El Yunque National Forest supplies drinking water to 20% of Puerto Rico's population.

Storylines:

a) Water originating in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and carried by the trade winds, forms clouds and fog over the high ridge lines of El Yunque National Forest, which falls as rain on the forest.

» How water travels through the landscape (Sahara Dust from Africa plays a large role in the formation of the rain and the water cycle (and air quality)

» Human impacts on water as it travels through the landscape » Ecosystem approach to healthy watersheds

b) Water derived from the mountains of El Yunque National Forest is vital to communities of today and of the past because has driven/drives cultural practices, health, economic development, agriculture, and welfare of communities throughout.

» Water’s importance to traditional people (e.g. Taino) » Water’s importance for today’s communities – social, economic, recreational and health

Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, October 2018 Page 7

© Steve52/Bigstock.com

c) Water conservation is critical—despite being in a rainforest—and we can all do our part to make it happen.

» History of drought on the island and its impacts » Why water conservation is important to the island/forest » Calls to action – how we can conserve water at home

d) El Yunque has many rivers that are home to unique plants and animals, including three Wild and Scenic Rivers: The Mameyes River, Rio Icacos, and Rio de La Mina.

» What makes a river wild and scenic » Only tropical rivers in the National Wild and Scenic River System » Mameyes River—what makes it unique » The Río de la Mina’s—what makes it unique » Rio Icacos—what makes it unique

4) Topic: Natural Resources and Ecology of the Tropical RainForest

Sub-theme: Abundant life thrives in the one-of-a-kind ecosystems of El Yunque National Forest, leav-ing all who visit in awe, refreshed, and inspired to conserve and protect natural resources.

Exhibit Goals—Visitor will be able to:

• Gain an understanding of the diversity of plant and animal life in the rainforest of El Yunque.

• Recognize the ecosystem adaptations to hurricanes and ability to regenerate itself.

• Identify threats to various species that are native to the island versus introduced.

• Realize the vulnerability of small islands and the life forms that depend on its resources.

• Experience nighttime at El Yunque and the bioluminescence that surrounds it.

Storylines:

1) The largest concentration of biodiversity in Puerto Rico is on El Yunque National Forest, with more than a thousand different plant species.

» Six common forest vegetation types with each having unique characteristics. (See the new Forest Plan information for more detail.)

» Forest layers and what happens in each – forest floor, understory, canopy and the emergent layer

2) El Yunque is home to many threatened and endangered species, as well species that are endemic to Puerto Rico.

» Formation of the island, lack of land bridge and its impacts on animals found on the island.

» Endangered species and habitats where they can be found, with special emphasis on the Puerto Rican Parrot.

» Coqui species and their significance to Puerto Rico and El Yunque National Forest

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Table 1

3) At night, El Yunque can feel like a different world with unique plants and animals taking center stage.

» Bioluminescent organisms » Animal life at night—sights and sounds at El Portal and El Yunque National Forest

Visitor Use at El Portal and El Yunque

National Forest

Pre-hurricane Visitation (2016) Data from the National Visitor Use Monitoring (NVUM) for El Yunque National Forest indicated that both off island tourists and residents put a high value on hiking/walking and viewing natural resources as activities they spent most of their leisure time doing (see Table 1).

NVUM also identifies the level of significant value assigned to El Portal by residents and tourists. Pre-hurricane values showed it to be highly valued by tourists versus a low value by local residents. El Portal has offered little to residents to invite return visits, nor exhibits that capture their interest.

The interpretive report from 2014 (Evaluation of El Portal Rain Forest Center Summary Report and Recommendations, CHM Government Services 2014) breaks visitation down in the following seasonal users.

The visitor to El Yunque differs by season, indicating that seasonal programming should shift with opportunities for other offerings (e.g. retail) to also be tailored by season.

• About 70% of the visitation to the forest happens within the 9 months of fall and winter.

• When “winter” survey data were equated to this audience segment, this period includes a high percentage of visitation from the United States (70%).

• This audience is older and traveling with friends, and/or families without children. Their income profile is evenly split between both lower income and higher income strata (50/50).

• Their interests lie heavily in the areas of hiking and nature viewing. These data support the need for unique programming that could potentially be fee-based during the winter season.

• Additionally, the data indicate that investing in high quality apps and/or maps that highlight hiking trails and guided walks would be a potential opportunity.

• The “summer” audience is equally split between locals and visitors from off the island. They are younger and less affluent, with approximately 70% of the visitors

Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, October 2018 Page 9 making below $75,000. Over 50% are traveling with children. The interests of this group prioritize nature viewing highly, with the U.S.

visitors continuing to rank hiking/ walking as a priority. The audience data indicates that offering family based programming is key during the summer.

• In recognition of the income profile, a variety of free and fee-based programming should be considered.

The investments in apps and/or maps will also be useful during this period.

Post Hurricane Visitation (2017) The damage to El Yunque National Forest from the 2017 hurricanes caused all recreation sites and roads in El Yunque National Forest to close indefinitely. El Portal also sustained damages and could not receive any visitation.

As an way to maintain communication and services to the public, the first of several satellite offices was established in the local community. This Portalito provides community outreach and tourist information while the forest and facilities are being repaired. The program coordinator began a campaign to communicate via digital media using Twitter, Facebook, newsletter, walk-in traffic, and special events/programs.

The summary below includes the social media and traffic counts from the Portalito and events since March 2018.

There is no way to count vehicle traffic entering the forest at this time.

Twitter data shows a variety of responses from September 2017 through May 2018, with a significant increase in communications and dispersal of information. While 'likes" have reduced, link clinks and re-tweets seem to be steadily gaining ground, showing the ability to provide information and

Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, 2017 Page 10 orientation to users before arriving on a site. This social media presence is also building a constituency of support for a site/facility/program of operation.

Facebook analytics show steady user growth between March and May when the forest launched a new Facebook page.

2018 visits to the Portalito began slowly, but quickly increased as local residents became aware of the facility (it is off-site of the El Yunque National Forest). The services available and types of programming or business needs that could be addressed.

Between February to July 2018, Portalito staff or partners conducted 46 programs/special events with approximately 735 attendees (some are not yet counted.)

The Portalito concept is anticipated to expand to include several communities surrounding El Yunque National Forest. Each location will have specific interpretive themes to address, which should be considered in planning exhibits for El Portal exhibits. Currently, outreach is underway at Palmer, El Verde, and a mobile site (a roving ranger, educational trailer truck to service other locations). Other potential sites: Sabana/IITF, Naguabo, or Humacao (but these locations may be covered via the mobile).

Themes are in Appendix A of this document.

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STA-1

STA-RB-4

STA-RB-1

Concept Floor Plan

PORTAL

PAVILION LEVEL

Arrival Zone: Trails and Parking Lot Sign Needs Entry and Welcome Zone

Site Map and Use Areas

In the effort to further blend interpretive exhibits with children's discovery zones and community interactions, this site map identifies a variety of spaces for use, and requires that many of the thematic exhibits be mobile and able to be condensed or expanded.

The exhibits should serve as stage props for the ongoing activities and programs at the center, but also be able to stand alone;

support an interactive experience; or adapt to changes in use. These update concepts from the architecture firm provide a larger concept of the entire site and allow for identification and planning the entire experience from the entry sign into the parking lot and trails leading into the visitor center.

Parking lot signs will provide a welcome message and direct visitors to the foot paths. At trail junctions or decision points, orientation signs will show the direction to the visitor center and where you are in proximity to it. Additional self-serve orientation information awaits users at El Portalito where a sense of discovery invites them to travel the path to the visitor center.

As visitors arrive at the view to the Caribbean and into El Portal, they can pause, soak in the view, and take photos.

Upon entering the atrium level, they will be immersed into what seems to be a festival of colors, culture, and life. On the left, a reception counter is staffed with friendly employees eager to answer their questions.

The reception area is labeled "El Yunque National Forest, Its All Yours", or a similar inviting message. Forest recreation

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INTERPRETATIVE

EXHIBITS

SUPPORT

CIRCULATION

PATH

COMMUNITY AND

CULTURE ZONE

CAFESPECIAL

EVENTS

Concept Floor Plan

PAVILION LEVEL

Entry and Welcome Atrium: Reception, Communications & Community Exhibit Spaces: Static & Dynamic Areas Theater Cultural Festival Active Learning and Play Roaming

Conexions Pavilion

Coquí Pavilion

Coterra Pavilion

Atrium

Café and Eating Area

Interpretive Messages:

A) Water as a Force on the PR Landscape B) Natural resources in Tropical Rainforest C) Human interactions on the Forest D) Climate Change, Conservation and Change E) Cultural and Community Connections opportunities are identified easily on a nearby map (or a digital menu board if an environmentally tough one can be found).

Specific trail and recreation information is in this area. Any electronics must have the ability to be and moved and secured in the event of hurricanes or storms.

To the right are a set of engaging booths with an invitation to Discover the People and Places of Puerto Rico. This is the area where communities promote events and activities in their local area, and a gathering place for tour guides and their groups.

The second half of the atrium level is an open area that can be used for performances, dancers, or large group activities, with mobile exhibits that can be popped up, expanded, or moved to keep this space flexible.

Flooring on the main atrium level will be a colored concreted with visual elements that provide interpretive and educational imagery. The interpretive themes and storylines will be spread throughout the space to allow for a variety of learning experiences to occur simultaneously.

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Design Guidelines

The drama of Puerto Rico’s natural wonders bring to mind verdant greens, deep multi-faceted blues, and bright colors that pop out and draw the eye. These colors are festive and lively to match the energy and spirit of the Puerto Rican culture. For example, the visuals to the right provide a sample of the diversity of color and vibrancy of this region. While the immediate landscape around El Portal is green with brilliant coloration, the blues of the Caribbean and the sky also make a pleasing contrast and bring cooler colors.

These design guidelines identify colors to use within El Portal and in combination for El Yunque interpretive signage. The use of borders or graphic elements should represent the colors and energy typical of Puerto Rico, and the local flora and natural resources for which it is known.

Colors to use in graphic development of exhibits within El Portal

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Remoto y pristino

Choosing to save a river is more often an act of passion than of careful calculation. You make the choice because the river has touched your life in an intimate and irreversible way, because you are unwilling to accept its loss. — (David Bolling, How to Save a River: Handbook for Citizen Action)

Elegir salvar un río es más a menudo un acto de pasión que de cálculo cuidadoso.

Tú eliges porque el río ha tocado tu vida de una manera íntima e irreversible, porque no estás dispuesto a aceptar su pérdida. - (David Bolling, Cómo salvar un río: Manual para la acción ciudadana)

River Corridor Map

Wild & Scenic River

El Yunque

The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 established a National System to protect and enhance the free flow, water quality, and outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values of select rivers for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

National Protection

What can be a lovely quiet pool can quickly become a raging torrent with quickly changing weather conditions.

The portion of the Mameyes, from its headwaters to the confluence with the R de la Mina, is remote and isolated. The stream course is a mass of jumbled boulders, and numerous small waterfalls and pools entering a narrow scenic gorge beyond its confluence with the La Mina.

La porción de los Mameyes, desde sus cabeceras hasta la confluencia con el R de la Mina, es remota y aislada. El curso de la corriente es una masa de cantos rodados mezclados, y numerosas pequeñas cascadas y piscinas que ingresan a una estrecha garganta escénica más allá de su confluencia con La Mina.

Remote and Pristine

Keeping rivers clean of trash and human debris protects the water for wildife and human use.

For more information visit:

www.fs.usda.gov/rivers

Mantener los ríos limpios de basura y desechos humanos protege el agua para la vida salvaje y el uso humano.

La Ley de Ríos Silvestres y Escénicos de 1968 estableció un Sistema Nacional para proteger y mejorar el flujo libre, la calidad del agua y los valores excepcionales naturales, culturales y recreativos de ríos seleccionados para el disfrute de las generaciones presentes y futuras.

RioSalvaje y Pintoresco

River Safety Levels Change Rapidly - Be Aware!

Seguridad del río Los niveles cambian rápidamente - ¡tenga cuidado!ly

Proteccion Nactional

Para más información visite:

www.fs.usda.gov/rivers

You are here

Lo que puede ser un estanque tranquilo y encantador puede convertirse rápidamente en un torrente furioso con condiciones meteorológicas que cambian rápidamente.

Wade with a companion, never get the water alone.

When it rains heavily, flash flooding can occur without warning in rivers, streams and pools. Always check the weather before getting in the water.

Never enter the water if under the influence of drugs or alchohol.

Always watch children. Rivers and pools are unguarded.

Never dive in rivers, streams or pools.

Nuca entre al agua solo.

Cuando aueve fuerto pueden occurir giopes de agua sin previo avisto on los rios, quetiradas y charcas. Siempre revise el clima antea de entrar al agua.

Nunca entre al agua bojo los electos del alcohol o drogas.

Vigile a sus ri..os costaemente. No hay salvavidas on los rios y charcas.

No aga davados an rios, quebradas o charcas.

Rio Mameyes native fish species

Protect wildife by leaving the river cleaner then you found it. Pick up trash, and leave none behind. Do not wash in a stream or river. Soap pollutes the water and injures fish and other aquatic life.

Protege la vida salvaje dejando el río más limpio y luego lo encontraste. Recoge basura y no dejes nada atrás.

New signs for El Yunque's Wild & Scenic Rivers are in progress, due to be completed in 2019.

Orientation, safety and information boards were developed for use at most recreation sites prior to 2017. Hurricanes damaged some of these signs.

Signs at El Yunque National Forest Exhibit designers for the new El Portal exhibits must keep in mind the signage that has been previously developed for various locations on the forest. New exhibits should provide a consistent look that allows El Portal to stand alone, yet is in keeping with other recreational signage.

It will also be important to include both English and Spanish on all signs and exhibits. The use of graphic messaging that can convey concepts without text will enhance the enjoyment of many visitors.

Designers must also take materials into account. Fiberglass embedment and metal etched signs cannot withstand the heat, humidity, and molds of this tropical climate.

Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, October 2018 Page 15

Rain Forest Regulars....sjdfsakjf puopiuoip as ;kjwkren ;kn qe a nw;elkr n;lkwner lwekrnkewlrn lkwe

Design Narrative and Exhibit

Recommendations

Arrival: Trails and Parking Lot Signs This area orients visitors from the parking lot, and pathways up to entrance sign, through El Portalito, and across the bridge to the front desk at the Atrium level. This area sets the stage for the visitor experience at the center. The experience here will largely determine if they continue on into El Portal beyond this point.

El Portalito is the focal point for arrivals where they will see large maps of both the forest and El Portal. El Portalito will set expectations for what the visitor will experience at El Portal.

This space will contain the following:

• A welcome to El Portal and El Yunque National Forest

• An opportunity for a visitor’s first interaction with a community booth, food cart, or movable display

• An orientation map of the facilities and surrounding trails, along with hours of operation

• A conceptual map of the forest, its location on the island, and the road into the forest. The concrete floor could be used as map space for any of the orientation maps.

• Safety messages and a location for posting temporary information

• On the opposite side of the map station, a low profile sign mounted to the wall introduces the main theme of Ridge to Reef and the importance of all the ecological aspects of the island.

• Information that sets expectations for the visitor center, and the adventure into the forest

Along the walkway to the center, interpretive thematic sculptures of native flora and fauna of the rainforest are installed for touching. These sculptures would assist in setting the stage for what visitors will experience. All signs would be updated to blend and give brief messages about ecology.

Recommendations for sculptures includes Puerto Rican parrot, birds of the rainforest, snails, and larger than life insects.

The extra-large silhouette of a coqui lends fun to the exhibit and a place for picture taking with the backdrop of the rain forest. While in the next image, a partial canopy that shades from the sun, then opens into the incredible viewshed enhances discovery and comfort.

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Reception, Communications, and Community Connection The entry and reception area is located close to the entry desk on the left side of the atrium level, in front of the stairs. It provides visitors with updates on forest programming, upcoming events, major projects, and more.

The main theme is reflected in all activities and exhibits throughout the site, programming, exhibitry, movies, and retail items. The central theme defines what is unique and significant about the resources of El Yunque National Forest, and why it matters to have this protected landscape.

The information shared in this area will be consistently updated and will be critical to ensuring visitors and community members are well-informed about what is happening on the forest and in the visitor center.

In addition to telling the forest story, the communications area can tell visitors about community events and tourism opportunities surrounding El Yunque. This area will include the following activities and opportunities to engage with local communities and share information on local festivals, special activities, cultural events, agricultural markets, and celebrations.

A core element needed in the atrium is orientation and information to prepare the visitor for their visit into the forest. Trip planning exhibits can include information about traveling the road, conditions, stops to make based on amount of time, available, and a location to download the apps offered by the forest. It could include iPads with schedules of weekly events and activities on or around the forest, allowing visitors to plan ahead for several days. Updates to the screen can be made from a computer system housed in a controlled environment.

This communication area also serves as an entry into the main gallery of the atrium and the pavilion levels of the building.

Displays and dynamic materials will provide information on activities and opportunities to engage with local communities at local festivals, special activities, cultural events, agricultural markets, celebrations, etc.

A strong visual message is needed to invite people into the space and encourage them to come in, wander, engage and experience. Other ideas include:

• Food carts with a variety of Puerto Rican foods to sample (these need to vary from what the cafe is offering).

• A monthly (or weekly) community radio broadcasting from El Portal to promote the activities and events associated with the communities of the region.

• "Contact with the Forest" - What is flowering in the forest and or other seasonal events.

• Columns as a communication icons for communities.

• Science Saturday - a regular feature where scientists from the International Institute of Tropical Forestry present latest research.

• Small tables with food samples, free or for sale.

• Exhibits that surround the columns and serve to pull visitors farther into the space.

• Space flow and open invitation into the gift shop, making it a value added experience.

• Use of big map circles grouped to show the entire forest and movement up the mountain.

• Communications area for local residents about El Portal and agency actions, information sharing board, donations information, and comments box. Updates for community and outfitter guides.

Information on what is changing at El Portal. (This could be hard copy and a digital web page.)

• Use high-impact visuals of wildlife, use of QR codes, cell phone interactives and access. Let users create their experience with digitaltechnology.

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Banners hung from rafters or the columns flutter in wind and draw the eye upward and attract people further into the space. Brightly colored sailcloth is stretched across the space to give a festive market feel to this gallery.

Atrium Exhibitry The atrium will be alive with vibrant colors, community activity, and interactive interpretive opportunities. These alternatives show the use of either hanging banners that would move with the wind, made from sailcloth or other durable banners in bright thematic colors or to mimic the forest canopy that attract the eye upward and down the corridor of the gallery. Colors could be representative of various themes related to interpretive messages. Exhibits or community booths can be located and identified by various banners with labels. Columns can be used to communicate thematic messages or lend themselves to represent artistic icons of Puerto Rico with knitted sculptures, floral bouquets, masks, or other specific items.

If additional plants or living animals are incorporated into exhibits, discussion and agreements need to be thought out as to the care and maintenance of living things so as to always present healthy specimans.

This area offers the opportunity for “pop up” and mobile interpretive exhibits spread throughout the site, not restricted to one location only.

Exhibits will express the themes and storylines identified in this plan and provided opportunities for self-guided, non-personal interpretation;

interactive experiences that are unique to community events; scientific discoveries and research; or discovery play for children.

Previous reports show that visitors to El Portal are seeking orientation to the forest—an understanding of the recreation opportunities on the forest and its natural wonders. After orienting the visitor in the reception and communications area, interpretive exhibits will be dedicated to building an appreciation of the forest, the nature wonders, the history, and the culture. In addition to the themes and storylines above, key messages from the Forest Management Plan can be incorporated throughout interpretive media.

All interpretive materials will be engaging and text-limited, with many opportunities for interaction with the exhibits. The open-air and humid environment of El Portal make the use of technology difficult; low-tech and highly-durable exhibit materials will be used. Technology can be incorporated in cost-effective ways through the current theater, including Agents of Discovery stops throughout the interpretation zone. In addition to traditionally considered interpretation, sustainable operations in the interpretation zone can provide interesting interpretation opportunities and calls to action.

Equally important is to create exhibits that engage the senses and are experiential. We recommend approach of layering provide a teaser to stimulate interest, and provide to an opportunity for learning more using technology or various send out mechanisms to other sites. This will allow visitors to access more self-guiding information. It can also serve to link and combine information about visiting a different location on the island.

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Atrium and Pavilion Floor Concepts Floor treatments that replicate the flowing rivers of Puerto Rico will be represented in simple floor schematics in colors of blues and greens. The atrium floor is a simple river cooridor, merging at the stairway or above the theater for a waterfall effect, then continuing onto the pavilion level with a stylized pattern of the Rio Mameyes and other rivers on the forest.

Atrium floor level with colored concrete river pattern

Pavilion level with colored concrete river pattern.Exhibit Concepts - El Portal, October 2018 Page 19

Pop-up Concepts Easy setup and take-down backdrops allow for booth setups and the feel of a farmers market. Special music or dance events can also be fit into the large space.

Dynamic exhibits might be pop-up styled that are mobile and can be expanded or minimized and can be strategically located to enhance festivals and activities, while keeping the thematic content of messages visible and engaging.

These exhibits will have specific waterproof hard panels with messaging, and allow for inserts and shifts that allow for changing updated messages at a low cost to the entire exhibit.

Static exhibits could be designed as a wrap-around or backdrop to spaces that would support community activities or interactive discovery related to a conservation message or monitoring activity. These backdrops could serve as a stage for various events, engagements, or activities.

Alternatively, these backdrops could become part of a discovery zone incorporating changes and interactions with the stream of visitors, or as a graffiti wall that is regularly painted over and allows for people to add their thoughts, art, or remembrances over time.

Pop-up rooms or exhibits that can be folded, stored, or relocated allow for creating interactive experiences on an ongoing basis with a change in focus or activity. These can serve even as places for visitors create dynamic art or visuals of their own to post online, or take home as a souvenir of their experience.

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Floor View wall wheel steps & support steps & supportsteps & support steps & support wheel wall w al l w all tree/item central in all sections interpretive/hands-on displays, floor with patterns/organics per section, color-coded

Bird’s Eye View

Tile Making is Making a Comeback in Puerto Rice and should be celebrated!

Artistic tilework or appliques will be used on building features to enhance the feel and look of Puerto Rico, and provide recognition of the historic tile making industry that once flourished in Puerto Rico, and recognize its return. Local artistans can be pulled into assisting with designs that can be replicated and sold in the store at El Portal. Crafts and artwork by local artisans on display at El Portal can also provide an invitation for visitors to go and visit the artists’ studios, shops, or communities as part of the visitor's overall experience in Puerto Rico.

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A faux coral reef can be used to tell numerous stories related to climate change, island ecology and human pollution.

Simple banners mounted on poles can serve as backdrops in the community and crafts zone when not in use.

Perspective illustrations are playful and innovative ways to engage people in new ways of thinking about a creature.

These can be large graphic designs fabricated as mats and relocated to various spaces in the visitor center.

Hands On: Active Play and Discovery Activities as interactive exhibits do not need to be restricted to this specific location, but can exist throughout the space in adaptable and flexible organization. This "zone" is anywhere in the visitor center where active self-guided play and exploration is invited to happen. Although some features will be permanent, many of the exhibits and learning materials can be easily changed over time, providing more community engagement opportunities and improved likelihood of repeat visits.

The active play exhibits offer tremendous opportunities for partnership and collaboration, community engagement, both in the development and the long-term use of the visitor center, inside and outside (garden on the left hand side of the pavilion). Partners to consider include El Centro, 4-H, local schools, International Institute of Tropical Forestry, Luquillo long-term Ecological Research, etc. The central education topics of these activities for play and learning should remain consistent with the interpretive themes and storylines as well.

The active play and learning exhibits can be spread throughout various spaces in the visitor center, designed to be flexible and adaptable by including three thematic topic areas and a teaching/group learning area. All of these features will be highly interactive and can be changed throughout time.

The composition of the active play and learning spaces is optimal for partners “adopting” a section or a feature to design, create or maintain. The following provides a small narrative and ideas for each of the focused messages.

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Community Celebrations Throughout all levels, visitors will find booths, art, and displays used to celebrate current and past Puerto Rican culture, and highlight the cultural connection to the land. The community and culture celebration spread throughout the center is for self-guided exploration of art or exhibits, and interactions into cultural experiences such as artist-in-residence or craft making programs. Similar to the active play and learning activities, these displays will have some permanent features, but many of the exhibits and experiences can be easily changed to bring in new or repeat visitors.

The community celebration makes the center a very active space with partners and community members fully engaged in curating the area and creating programming. Partners can include, but not limited to, universities, local artists, museums, community members, and story tellers. Many grant opportunities exist for community-based arts, culture, and place-making.

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Theater New organization of the theater includes an analysis of the current space and flooring for determining if the space can provide more adaptable functionality such as bioluminescent exhibits and dark time displays along with showing movies.

The theater zone is a space for non-personal interpretation and special screening events.

Any films or videos shown should center on the interpretive themes and topics to ensure consistent messaging for the visitor.

The theater zone offers opportunities to work with non-traditional partners.