top of page
Search

Regional Alliance for Biodiversity: Wildlife Monitoring in the Región de Occidente (Western Region)

Writer: Francis Suárez López
Francis Suárez López
Sep 21
2 min read

Editor's note: An earlier version of this article was originally published on June 9, 2026, in Periódico Mi Tierra (based on contributions from Francis Suárez, FUNDEMA, and the Tacares municipal government).

In Región de Occidente (Western Region), protecting our natural heritage requires teamwork and a vision for the future: With the goal of continuing to strengthen strategic partnerships in support of environmental conservation, the Fundación para el Desarrollo de la Ecología y el Medio Ambiente de los Potreros de Puax (FUNDEMA PP) and the Western Federation of Municipalities of Alajuela (FEDOMA) are jointly promoting a Regional Wildlife Monitoring Project.

This initiative uses the camera trap methodology, a technological tool that allows for the non-invasive recording of the presence, behavior, and activity of various species at sites of high ecological value

Project objectives and impact

The project aims to generate high-quality scientific data to deepen our understanding of regional biodiversity. This information will serve as a fundamental resource for identifying priority areas for protection, supporting environmental decision-making, and designing effective conservation strategies.

In turn, the project aims to have a positive impact on the community through two key areas:

  • Environmental education: Raising public awareness of native species and promoting understanding of their habitats.

  • Sustainable tourism: Highlighting the natural wealth of the western cantons to promote responsible local development in harmony with the environment.

Regional coverage and strategic locations

To ensure a representative sample with true regional reach, camera traps are being installed at key locations throughout the area:

  • Naranjo: El Chayote Protected Area.

  • Palmares: Madre Verde Foundation Forest Reserve.

  • Sarchí: Bajos del Toro.

  • Poás: Sites of high ecological and tourist importance.

  • Grecia: El Achiote Interurban Biological Corridor.

Cooperation and key partnerships

The success of this effort lies in inter-institutional collaboration and support from the private sector. The initiative has the valuable backing of Evolution Free Zone, a company that has contributed by donating part of the equipment needed for monitoring, demonstrating a direct commitment to protecting the region’s natural resources.

Meanwhile, the coordination between FUNDEMA PP and FEDOMA strengthens a model of joint work that links environmental efforts with municipal and regional stakeholders, enabling a comprehensive approach to conservation.

Understanding to conserve

Every photograph and video captured by these cameras represents a unique opportunity to better understand the species that inhabit our ecosystems and to strengthen the relationship between communities and nature.

Understanding to conserve and conserving for future generations: together, we are building a future where biodiversity and sustainable development go hand in hand.


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page