This project represents a community-based sustainable development effort for the communities of Villa Mills based on ecotourism. Over the last 15 years, research has been conducted in the area by CATIE (Centro Agronomico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza) on the sustainable management of the oak forest and they have established an excellent research and demonstration forest of 390 ha, with trails, signs and a 600 m² center for visitors. CATIE is working with the community of Villa Mills on continued research and to develop ecotourism initiatives managed by the local community. So far they describe having great success at hosting groups mainly from national and international universities.

Nature of EPF support: Project promotion through print and electronic sources.

For more information or to make a direct contribution contact:
Grace Saenz or José Campos Arce
CATIE
Turrialba 7170 Costa Rica
TEL: 506-556-04-01
FAX: 506-556-24-30
e-mail: gsaenz@catie.ac.cr or jcampos@catie.ac.cr
URL: http://www.catie.ac.cr/catie/