Responding to local deforestation pressures on the area surrounding the headwaters of the Nosara River, a source of drinking water and of wellbeing for the inhabitants of the small town of Hojancha in the central highlands of the Nicoya peninsula, local farmers came together in 1994 to enhance local forest conservation and create the co-managed Monte Alto Protected Zone. This 924-hectare area was created by acquiring land for natural regeneration or reforestation. A co-management agreement with the Costa Rican Ministry of Environment ensures local participation in the area's management decisions.

Fundación Pro Reserva Forestal Monte Alto (Foundation for Monte Alto Forest Reserve) continues to use monthly contributions from its member farmers to purchase additional land parcels, adding to the forest reserve area. Alternative income-generating activities such as ecotourism have helped to decrease reliance on clearing forest for cultivation for the community's 7,250 residents.

 

Key Facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2004

Founded: 1993

Location: Guancaste province, northwestern Costa Rica

Beneficiaries: 250 families

Biodiversity: 924 hectares of tropical forest protected

 

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