ASANA is Costa Rica's primier local conservation organization working along the Central and Southern Pacific Coast. ASANA established and manages the Paso de la Danta Biological Corridor and is instrumental in conserving the Savegre River Watershed. Combined, these two areas account for some of the richest biodiversity on Earth. They are also home to a local population that has worked hard to conserve the surrounding natural beauty. ASANA mobilizes local constituencies to take action.
Over the past 35 years, the Path of the Tapir Biological Corridor has recuperated more than 30% of its original forest cover. The Savegre River Watershed - just to the north - is a vast, virtually ignored expanse of forest, mountains, and rivers. Both of these areas, representing much of Costa Rica's rich biodiversity, have recently come under severe threat by poorly planned infrastructure development, including roads, dams, power lines, and housing. Most affected are local communities.
ASANA was instrumental in establishing the Path of the Tapir Biological Corridor and is leading the charge to get the Savegre River Watershed declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. We are organizing communities to help them speak with one voice to combat the external forces that threaten their way of life. We are negotiating with government agencies to modify infrastructure plans to mitigate threats. And we are certifying "green" businesses that comply with sustainable development principles.
ASANA's tag line is "Conserving nature. Preserving life." That sums up our mission and the basic tenet that guides us: For local communities to enjoy healthy and productive lives, they must live within a healthy and productive environment. ASANA invests heavily in conservation in order to protect some of the world's most unique plants and animals and provide local communities with clean water, a beautiful place to live, and nature-based economic opportunities.
