PUERTO RICO—The International Institute of Tropical Forestry in Puerto Rico recently finished hosting its first International Forestry Fellow—Bindiya Rashni, a freshwater ecologist from Fiji.

Rashni is a Ph.D. candidate in hydrobiology at the University of the South Pacific in Fiji with an interest in promoting sustainable practices that can provide livelihood to the communities of the Pacific Islands. Funded by International Programs at the Office of the Chief, the International Forestry Fellowship seeks to promote research collaboration between the Forest Service and Pacific Islands, specifically focusing on the management and restoration of tropical freshwater ecosystems.

During her time at the institute, Rashni was able to interact with forest managers, university research collaborators, other institute scientists and artists while becoming immersed in Puerto Rico’s diverse ecosystems.

These experiences were carefully planned and guided by her scientific mentor, Dr. Tamara Heartsill-Scalley, a research ecologist who studies tropical riparian ecosystems. One of the main goals of the fellowship was to produce a Manual for Riparian Restoration in Pacific Island Countries, a process that was led by Rashni in collaboration with Dr. Heartsill-Scalley and with support from multiple experts from the Pacific Islands.

From the institute’s perspective, the experience of hosting Rashni was nothing short of energizing and refreshing—her participation in meetings, ongoing field research and outreach activities was full of genuine engagement and enthusiasm. Her mentor, Dr. Heartsill-Scalley, said, “Bindiya is now part of the institute family, we weaved our stories and have now established collaborations that will keep us connected.”

Learn more about Rashni's fellowship on the institute's website.