Today we visited the cloud forests in Monteverde and had first-hand experience with nature. We got to see a three-wattled bellbird, which was like nothing I’ve ever seen before and is apparently very rare. Also, the views of the lush mountains were spectacular. This was especially interesting to me because I am very interested in how Costa Rica maintains their natural forests with the immense amount of tourism, and continues to build up their rainforests in the wake of the deforestation that occurred decades ago. I want to learn more about the tactics used and if there are any engineering skills involved.

We learned today that Costa Rica is experiencing many struggles in terms of sustainability. Some of these issues stem from climate change, which is causing a longer dry season, and the diminished water supply is causing the vegetation and wildlife to either lose their habitats and die or force them to move. Conservation of wildlife is especially important since elevation often decides whether or not some wildlife can live in certain areas, and this is extremely important to uphold because of the high tourist draw that boosts the economy (as well as keeping the rainforest alive). I found it interesting how Costa Rica implemented biological corridors to keep their environment healthy outside national parks. For example, we learned that a tree farm in Monteverde would give trees to farmers to plant near their farms to keep biological diversity and sustainability.

One thing I learned that was unique to Monteverde was the environmental payment service that farmers can apply to in order to get monetary compensation for changing some of their farmland into rainforest land. One thing that Costa Rica did as a whole was increase education on the sustainability of their natural environment, which increased their rainforest coverage up to 52% after severe drops in the past due to deforestation. Interest in living in Monteverde has taken a hit due to the rising living costs since the area is also so beautiful. There are more activities, such as night walks, ziplines, and Air BnBs for tourists than ever before. The most important thing for Costa Ricans to remember about all the changes they are dealing with is the sustainability of their rainforests. It supports the local economy, ecotourism, and encourages building up the natural environment of Costa Rica.