MONTE ALTO

Reforestation of former pastures

The Pacific coast of Central America was originally covered by, species-rich tropical dry forest. Between 1930-1980, the greater part of this forest was cut down, which led to a loss of biodiversity and in the dry season a drastic water shortage – the volume of the Nosara River decreased by 90%!

Monitoring of reforestation Ant eater

People react

Just by protecting the remaining forest and reforesting the headwater promised to undo the damage and relieve the water scarcity during the dry season. In 1992, the citizens of Hojancha founded a local organization called “Fundación Pro Reserva Forestal Monte Alto”. Two years later, 924 ha in a less wooded valley basin were established as a proteted area. By 2020, more than 60 % of this area has been reforested with natural mixed forest. The streams of the source region of the Nosara River now carry water year round and the protected area’s biodiversity is steadily increasing. Since March 1997, Tropica Verde has been a member of this organization and supports many of their activities.

Monte Alto Eco-Lodge with view over reforested natural mixed forest

WHAT IS TROPICA VERDE DOING?

 our local contact, Miguel Méndez Garcia

  • Acquisition of land for natural reforestation and regeneration with native species. In 2018, a tree nursery with more than 30 different native plant species was built to achieve this. The reforestation with the young plants was successful: more than 90 % of the 1,100 planted trees grew successfully and will contribute to the region’s biodiversity in the near future.
  • Tropica Verde supports environmental education through school visits and excursions to the area. Every year, different schools meet to celebrate “Tree Day” in Monte Alto by visiting the project and planting trees.
  • In 1998, an eco- lodge was built in the forest reserve and shortly later a training center. Trails through the pre-montaneous forest allow visitors to discover endemic flora and fauna.
  • A future goal is to develop organic agriculture with local farmers. It is also planned to catalog the region’s biodiversity using camera traps and with the scientific support of students and conservationists in the region.

Local partner

Partner in Germany

WAYS TO HELP:

  • DONATE!
    You would like to support our organization to protect the rainforest with a donation? Use the online form / our bank accounts to transfer or support us at betterplace.com
  • GIVE A GIFT!
    Gift your loved ones, friends and family a rainforest sponsorship.
  • COMPENSATE CO2!
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  • VOLUNTEER WITH US!
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