Environment Ministry advances plan to strengthen park ranger corps

During an event led by Vice President Raquel Peña, Environment Minister Paíno Henríquez revealed that all park rangers will receive a monthly salary increase of RD$5,000 as part of the Dignity Program for the National Park Rangers Corps. The initiative seeks to improve working conditions for personnel responsible for safeguarding forests, watersheds, coastlines, and biodiversity across the country.

The investment also includes the delivery of 150 motorcycles, 1,500 uniforms, 300 communication radios, and 75 secure firearms storage cabinets. To reinforce surveillance efforts, the ministry acquired 400 firearms, while the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Interior and Police contributed an additional 300. For the first time, park rangers will be granted licenses to carry and use firearms while performing their duties.

Henríquez emphasized that park rangers play a central role in protecting more than 25% of the national territory covered by protected areas. He highlighted that the initiative goes beyond equipment purchases, incorporating formal training, certification, and professionalization programs to ensure personnel operate under strict standards of safety, responsibility, and respect for human rights.

Authorities described the program as one of the largest investments ever made by the Dominican State in environmental protection personnel. The government expects the measures to modernize environmental management, strengthen conservation efforts, and enhance the long-term protection of the country’s natural heritage for future generations.