The Program calls on citizens to contribute to the revitalization of this ecosystem by reimbursing their payroll fees.
San Juan, Puerto Rico – Brenda Torres, Executive Director of the San Juan Bay Estuary, is urging taxpayers to contribute a portion of their tax refund this year to help conserve this natural ecosystem. This money will help revive areas devastated by Hurricane Maria and protect endangered species such as the leatherback sea turtle and the West Indian manatee. Donating part of the refund is possible thanks to Law No. 48 of 2009, which added a special line item to tax returns: “Contribution to the Special Fund for the San Juan Bay Estuary.” This line item is found on line 1B of the 2017 Single Tax Return.
“After Hurricane Maria, the Estuary’s ecosystem was severely impacted, and we had to redouble our efforts to protect and revive this vital natural ecosystem for Puerto Rico. Right now, we need to restore the Estuary’s health and re-establish its economic services. For this reason, we are calling on the community to help us in these efforts. Every penny counts, and with just $2 we can purchase a tree to plant. Your donation is important,” said the Executive Director.
This money will be used to support key areas in the metropolitan area such as water quality monitoring, reforestation, and support for surrounding communities impacted by this extreme force system.
In addition to the immense ecological value of the Estuary, the ecosystem is fundamental for economic development and food security, since food enters through it by boat and a large part of the country's commercial activity takes place here.
For more information, visit https://estuario.org/index.php/component/tags/tag/43-planillas or call 787-725-8165.
