The Rainforest People
 

The people living in the Northern Zone of Costa Rica, where the Sarapiqui River joins the San Juan River, have few conveniences. They dwell in simple wood houses with tin roofs; there is no electricity. Rain is the sole water supply and is used for drinking, cooking, and washing.

The people live off the land. Coconuts, yucca, beans, rice, bananas, papaya, squash, mangoes, oranges, guava,pejibayes, corn and cocoa make up their fruit and vegetable diet. They raise pigs and cattle called Nelore ( which resembles a Brahman) to supplement their simple fare. Additionally, they keep chickens and ducks. The river, of course, provides fish and shrimp. Some locals supplement their food supply with wild life like iguanas, crocodiles, and a variety of fur bearing animals. The latter are taken without regard for the seasons as are the spotted cats whose fur is prized. Ecologically and environmentally, such practices threaten the Rainforest. However, a delicate balance must be struck between protection of the Rainforest and engagement with the people.

After all, most people in the area keep cattle and are, what is called, cattle poor. Cattle are their only source of income. To create more pastureland for their cattle, they cut or burn trees. It stands to reason, they also take the prized Macaws and green parrots who perch atop those trees. The Rainforest is, in effect, their livelihood. Setting out to protect the Rainforest is, then, a balancing act to include the local people in our partnership, to make them an integral part of our program: Save A Tree.

The challenge is evident. Success is not going to happen over night. However, with your help, and with your encouragement and involvement, we will better the living conditions of the local population as we Save A Tree.