Costas Verdes: Restoring Coastal Ecosystems Through Reforestation in Nosara

In the idyllic coastal town of Nosara, Costa Rica, a remarkable non-profit organization named Costas Verdes is making a significant impact on the restoration of devastated coastal ecosystems. With a mission to reforest the coastline and empower local communities, Costas Verdes has planted over 70,000 trees, reintroduced numerous native species, and created native tree nurseries. Through their dedication and community involvement, they are creating a sustainable future for the coastal environment.

Restoration Projects: Healing the Coastal Landscapes

Costas Verdes takes a hands-on approach to their reforestation efforts, actively leading and executing projects throughout the region. They have worked tirelessl

y on eight significant reforestation projects, including Playa Hermosa, Jaco, Playa Guiones, Camaronal, Playa Barrigona, Herradura, Esterillos, and Playa Pelada in Nosara. Each project is carefully designed to restore devastated areas and create a diverse coastal forest corridor along the Pacific coastline of Costa Rica.

Community Involvement: Planting Seeds of Stewardship

Recognizing the importance of community engagement, Costas Verdes actively involves local schools, universities, governments, NGOs, and businesses in their reforestation initiatives. By organizing tree planting campaigns, workshops, and sponsorship programs, they foster a sense of stewardship and responsibility among community members. Since the organization's inception, they have collaborated with 30 local schools, engaged over 9,000 volunteers, and partnered with 50 local businesses to make a lasting impact.

Native Tree Nurseries: Supplying Sustainable Growth

To ensure the long-term sustainability of their reforestation projects, Costas Verdes has established native species-based tree nurseries. These nurseries not only supply trees for coastal restoration but also cater to private landscaping projects. By cultivating and reintroducing native species, they promote biodiversity and strengthen the resilience of coastal ecosystems.

Project Highlights:

1. Mas Hermosa | Playa Hermosa, Garabito
   

   • Project Started: 2009

   • Area: 18 hectares (approx.)

   • Trees planted: 25,262

• Tree species re-introduced: 42

• Local Schools Involved: 10

• Volunteers: 2,856

1. BarriGuiones | Playa Guiones, Nosara
   

   • Project Started: 2011

   • Area: 20 hectares (approx.)

• Trees planted: 30,876

• Tree species re-introduced: 71

• Local Schools Involved: 12

• Volunteers: 5,542

• 2 Active Nurseries producing +10,000 trees/year

1. Playa Pelada | Nosara
   

   • Project Started: 2019

   • Area: 0.5 hectare (approx.)

   • Trees planted: 2,920

   • Tree species re-introduced: 24

• Local Schools Involved: 5

• Volunteers: 303

Costas Verdes is an inspiring force for change in the coastal communities of Nosara, Costa Rica. Through their reforestation efforts, they are restoring the natural beauty and balance of the devastated coastal ecosystems. By actively involving local communities, schools, and businesses, Costas Verdes is cultivating a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment. Their native tree nurseries and ongoing projects demonstrate their commitment to creating a diverse coastal forest corridor and a sustainable future. Costas Verdes serves as a shining example of how environmental conservation and community involvement can come together to make a lasting difference.