THE EDITOR, Sir:

LAST WEEK, I had the privilege of wandering around the Schwallen-burg Orchid Sanctuary, just off Faith's Pen in St Ann. The sanctuary was the inspired brainchild of The Alcan Company and Ancile Gloudon, the well-known orchi-dologist. About 10 years ago, wild orchids which would have been destroyed during mining were gathered together in two centralised areas in an effort to nurture and protect them. The other is Martin's Hill Orchid Sanctuary, near Mandeville.

Signs of restoration

I spent a marvellous couple of hours browsing around what remains of the colony. The ravages of past hurricanes - Gustav included - and the lack of attention, have wreaked havoc. However, what cheered me up were the obvious signs of restoration. I learned that a couple of College of Agriculture, Science and Education students, with an Alcan assistant, spent June and July clearing some of the trails, bushing out the undergrowth and retying and labelling the orchids. They are all to be congratulated. As one of Jamaica's hidden treasures, it must not be allowed to return to ruination. We need these areas of quiet reflection and beauty in our lives.

Priceless property

I noted the new highway nearby, which means that our tourists from the cruise lines will also have access. Mystic Mountain move over and make way for a misty, moist preserve of our beautiful floral heritage! Please, help us restore this priceless property, Alcan Agricultural Division.

I am, etc.,

JANE TAYLOR

taylors@cwjamaica.com