One of the most ambitious ecological restoration projects in the country was given substantial recognition for its work to rescue wetlands over the last four years. The PBAE (Ecological Blue Flag Program) recently recognized Rancho Humo Ecological Preserve near the Tempisque River in the “Protected Natural Spaces” category.  Rancho Humo received the maximum award possible: 3 stars and a rating of 100% - signifying their full compliance with each of the evaluated standards. 

This project has received recognition from various international experts as an example of ecological rescue and preservation. However achieving this status, the highest available at a national level in the first year in which they participated in the program, is a very

significant achievement and an important incentive to their work.

“We are very happy.  The restoration and protection of eco-systems work we have been doing has been evaluated in great detail, and a rating this high is a confirmation of the direction in which we are going and motivation to continue working for the preservation of the environment and the flora and fauna of the country,” said Melissa Briceño, environmental architect and manager of Rancho Humo.

The now restored land of Rancho Humo was previously dedicated to cattle ranching.

Today this land is a sanctuary for thousands of birds (some at severe risk of extinction) and an abundance of microscopic life, crustaceans, insects, reptiles and mammals.  The land is now an eco-system that is functioning in perfect and balanced biological order.

Rancho Humo not only exposes the beauty of the area and the process of biological restoration with its visitors, but it simultaneously dedicates resources to promoting and rescuing the values of the rural culture of Guanacaste.

For further information visit:

RevistaUtopia.com/Rancho-Humo-Ecological-Preserve.aspx

for a complete article about the place and the wetlands  restoration process.