Creating a broad, meaningful, positive impact in an area like the Southern Zone is challenging when complex environmental and socioeconomic issues are taking in to consideration. Education and conservation efforts take community effort and action, and sometimes, you need a little help from your friends. The following organizations are Finca Bellavista’s partners in efforts to conserve and improve opportunities in this special area of the world.
ProCat – Proyecto Conservación del Área Talamanca (ProCAT) has the goal of improving the state of biodiversity knowledge for the Caribbean Talamanca Region of Costa Rica so that management and conservation decision-making can be based on a solid scientific foundation. The project’s focal species is the jaguar, which once inhabited the entire region but is now rare or absent throughout much of its historic range. In the Caribbean lowland of Costa Rica, the jaguar is both an indicator of ecosystem health and has powerful spiritual value among the Bribri and Cabécar Amerindians, who are native to the region.
WESTERN STATE COLORADO UNIVERSITY -WSCU’s Center for Environmental Studies is starting a Masters in Environmental Management (MEM) program that enables post-bachelor students to earn their degree while at Finca Bellavista.
PRETOMA – PRETOMA is a Costa Rican non-profit NGO founded in 1997. They are a marine conservation and research organization working to protect ocean resources and promote sustainable fisheries policies in Costa Rica and Central America.
SEETurtles – From leatherbacks to loggerheads, six of the seven species of sea turtles that swim the world’s oceans are threatened or endangered. SEE Turtles helps protect these inspiring creatures by connecting travelers and volunteer to key turtle hotspots and responsible tour operators.
Pack for a Purpose – Wherever your travels might take you, be sure to check the Pack for a Purpose website to see whether there is a school, foundation, or other entity that needs your help. If you have space in your luggage, it can be filled with school supplies, medical supplies, or any number of needed items.