Conchal Wildlife Refuge leads ecological restoration in Guanacaste

The Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Mixto Conchal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is advancing ecological restoration efforts within approximately 40 hectares of mixed dry forest and mangrove ecosystems. As part of these initiatives, a forest nursery located within the reserve has produced 3,367 native forest and fruit tree species since 2023 to support reforestation and biodiversity strengthening.

The refuge, established on September 18, 2009, serves as a critical component of the Baulas-Conchal Marine Coastal Biological Corridor. This connectivity allows various species, including howler monkeys, white-tailed deer, migratory birds, and reptiles, to migrate safely between different zones. The restoration of the mangrove ecosystem also helps mitigate coastal erosion and maintain environmental balance.

Successful long-term conservation in the region involves navigating Costa Rica’s Forestry Law No. 7575 and utilizing environmental incentive frameworks such as the Payments for Environmental Services program to align reforestation with national zoning and land-use regulations.