Stewards of the KMR since 1996
ASEPALECO’s work is organized through integrated programs that protect ecosystems, strengthen communities, and promote sustainable environmental practices in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. Our approach combines conservation, education, prevention, scientific research, and responsible use of natural resources to create long-term environmental and social impact.
Each program responds to local environmental challenges while contributing to the protection of forests, biodiversity, and water sources that sustain surrounding communities.
Our conservation work has a direct and measurable impact on ecosystems and communities:
Protected forest areas that conserve biodiversity
Water sources that supply nearby towns
Active environmental education programs
Community fire prevention brigades
Research and monitoring for ecosystem protection
Our work supports conservation through education, research, fire prevention, and responsible ecotourism.
Forest fires represent one of the greatest threats to tropical dry forests during the dry season. ASEPALECO’s Forest Fire Prevention Program focuses on reducing wildfire risks through community-based prevention, training, and response.
The program includes the formation and training of volunteer fire brigades, surveillance during high-risk periods, environmental education, and coordination with local institutions. These actions help protect forest ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and nearby communities while strengthening local capacity for emergency response.
Environmental education is a core pillar of ASEPALECO’s work. Through educational programs, workshops, guided activities, and community events, we promote environmental awareness and responsible interaction with nature.
Our initiatives include work in schools and educational centers, community outreach activities, and environmental camps such as the CBP Camps and Guardians of the Forest program. These efforts aim to inspire environmental stewardship, especially among children and young people, and to strengthen long-term conservation values within local communities.
ASEPALECO promotes responsible waste management as a key component of environmental protection. Through the Integrated Waste Management Program, the organization supports waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal practices within the community.
This program operates through the Collection Center, where recyclable materials are received, classified, and managed responsibly. By encouraging waste separation and recycling, the program helps reduce environmental pollution and promotes more sustainable community practices.
Scientific research plays a vital role in understanding and protecting local ecosystems. ASEPALECO supports research initiatives focused on biodiversity monitoring, species documentation, and ecosystem health within the Karen Mogensen Reserve.
The program includes collaboration with researchers, students, and institutions, as well as participation in citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist, where species observations contribute to global biodiversity databases. Research findings help inform conservation strategies and support evidence-based environmental management.
ASEPALECO promotes responsible ecotourism as a way to connect people with nature while supporting conservation and local development. Ecotourism activities are designed to minimize environmental impact and generate resources that directly support conservation efforts.
Through guided visits and nature-based experiences, visitors gain a deeper understanding of local ecosystems and the importance of protecting them. Ecotourism initiatives are closely linked to the Karen Mogensen Reserve and Ecolodge, creating a sustainable model that benefits both nature and surrounding communities.
Conservation is the foundation of ASEPALECO’s mission. The organization works to protect tropical forests, wildlife habitats, and critical water sources through land conservation, ecosystem restoration, and long-term management.
ASEPALECO has progressively expanded protected areas through land acquisition and conservation agreements, strengthening ecological connectivity within the region. Ongoing conservation efforts are guided by strategic planning and supported through donations and community involvement, ensuring the continued protection of these vital ecosystems.
If you would like more information about our projects, visiting the reserve, or supporting our work, we invite you to contact us or explore the site.
