The situation in the Galapagos may be easier to manage because of the islands' isolation. Also, those working to preserve the islands maintain that the parks exist for the animals and tourism is only a means to that end. And for the government, which has been bestowed with the custodianship of this worldwide treasure, the islands' preser-vation is as important for posterity as it is for creation of income. Under these conditions, the concerned par-ties have had some success in solving recent problems plaguing the islands. The Ecuadorian government is considering laws to restrict migration to the islands, require strict cargo inspection at all points of entry and disallow an increase in annual visitors.
Regulations barring tourists from sleeping or smoking on the islands already exist.
Tourists are allowed entry only with registered guides and they may not stray off the beaten path or bring food onto the islands. Finally, exorbitant prices preclude all but the most devoted visitors. Because of these recent developments, environmentalists and scientists are optimistic about the future, though few are willing to make predictions. But she feels the islands are salvageable with human and finan-cial resources, which informed tourism helps provide. As I took the launch back to the yacht I couldn't help thinking about the future of these animals.