About Fuentes Verdes

The Tilarán-based Ecological Association Fuentes Verdes was founded in 1995 (first known as Puentes Verdes, Green Bridges) with  the goal of gathering like-minded community members concerned with the environment.  It  became a registered non-profit association in 2002 and took the name La Asociacion Ecologica Fuentes Verdes SA, Green Sources Ecological Association.

The Canton of Tilarán lies between the nature reserve around Tenorio Volcano, to the north, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve to the south.  In 1995 the thinking was that proper management of the natural resources of the region could build a bridge between the two creating a significant biological corridor in the north- central sector of Costa Rica.

Times change.   Economic and social pressures abound.  Among other projects, Funetes Verdes has worked with the community and the Ministry of Health to close a sawmill at the entrance to Tilarán.  We have generated publicity about local environmental problems and worked to promote eco-toursim in the area.  We have participated in local commissions on solid waste management  and sustainable development, started a recycling program, and offered a neutering clinic for stray cats and dogs.  Fuentes Verdes built a small urban park next to the Tilarán bus station and has helped a nearby community, Dos de Tilarán, clean up its trash-filled stream.

We have addressed the municipality on numerous occasions and we are always receiving invitations to participate in workshops and commissions addressing the important issues that come under the heading of environment. Through these and other activities we have become a visible force in the community and we are very proud to have come this far.