6 March 2025 – The National Trust for the Cayman Islands is honoured to announce the donation of
approximately 3 acres of native forest land in Cayman Brac gifted by the family of the late Wallace Platts and his wife, Edna Platts. This meaningful contribution expands the National Trust’s protected areas in the SisterIslands and safeguards a tract of forest rich in biodiversity and native plants.

The donated land features a remarkable stand of native dry forest, including a large mature mastic tree,
native banana orchids, cacti, tillandsia, candlewood, and many more indigenous species – some of which are found nowhere else in the world and have historic heritage value to our islands. The preservation of the land helps ensure that these native plants and the wildlife they support will remain protected for generations to come as part of the National Trust’s continuing commitment to safeguarding important natural habitats across the Cayman Islands.

Wallace & Edna Platt

Wallace Platts was a long-time nature enthusiast and dedicated conservation supporter, immersing himself in the study and preservation of the natural heritage of Cayman Brac for decades. His deep appreciation for the island’s flora and fauna was reflected in his contributions to local conservation efforts, and his leadership helped nurture greater awareness and stewardship of Cayman Brac’s unique ecosystems. Shortly after arranging this significant land donation, Mr. Platts sadly passed away. His deep love for nature, wildlife, and the island he called home will live on through his generous gift as a lasting legacy that will protect and nurture Cayman’s natural heritage for generations to come.

The National Trust celebrates this generous act, which not only protects a native forest but also offers
inspiration for others to consider how they might leave the world better than they found it. Mr. Platts hoped that his decision would encourage others to think about ways they can make a positive difference through their wills, trusts, memorial gifts, or financial contributions to conservation. Legacy giving, whether through land, financial endowments, or planned gifts, is vital to the National Trust’s work in protecting places that matter for present and future generations so that they can be experienced and enjoyed for the benefit of all.

Wallace examiningg a plant

Forever. “We are deeply grateful to Wallace and Edna Platts for this remarkable contribution,” said Frank Roulstone, Executive Director of the National Trust. “Their vision and generosity help secure a piece of Cayman Brac’s natural heritage in perpetuity, ensuring that native trees, orchids, and wildlife continue to thrive. We hope this gift inspires more people to consider how legacy giving can shape a healthier, more resilient future for our islands.”

To learn more about legacy giving and how you can support the National Trust’s protected areas, conservation programmes, or long-term stewardship, please contact [email protected]

About the National Trust for the Cayman Islands

The National Trust for the Cayman Islands is a non-governmental organization whose mandate under the National Trust Law (2010 Revision) includes the preservation of the historic, natural and maritime heritage of the Cayman Islands for present and future generations.

About the Blue Iguana Conservation Programme

The Blue Iguana Recovery Programme began in 1990 with only 30 dedicated Blue Iguanas and the primary goal to restore the wild population to 1,000 Blue Iguanas, encouraging viable population in the long-term.

Having met its primary goal in 2018, the initiative formally transitioned to the Blue Iguana Conservation Programme in 2019 with a new focus of sustainably conserving the native species of Grand Cayman.

About the National Trust’s Environmental Programme

The National Trust for the Cayman Islands’ environmental programme was founded on the concept that the protection of native plants and animals is best achieved by protecting the natural areas in which they depend.

About the National Trust Conservation Programme

The National Trust for the Cayman Islands’ conservation programme strives to protect Cayman’s native species and the habitats in which they live, and includes the endemic Blue Iguana of Grand Cayman, the Sister Islands Rock Iguana and Cayman’s native bat species.

About the National Trust Historic Preservation Programme

The National Trust for the Cayman Islands introduced the launching of its Historic Preservation Fund at its Annual General Meeting in September 2021 for the purpose of inviting increased support of its continuing efforts to encourage the preservation and protection of historic homes and buildings for present and future generations of the Cayman Islands.