Savegre Tapir Project at Rafiki

We had the good fortune of having a tapir scientist visit Rafiki Safari Lodge in February this year. The purpose of his visit was to analyze the feasibility of the Savegre Tapir Project and initiate investigation of the Savegre Valley. He is a professor at Chester University in the UK, a veterinarian, and has vast experience in establishing and analyzing enclosures for wildlife. His skill set is a vital tool for the Tapir project.

During his time at Rafiki, the tapir specialist was able to examine the area and determine what type of fencing will be necessary, get a feel for the lay of the land, the current state of the proposed environment, and give his opinion on the viability of the project. The results of trip have produced several signicant advancements for the project. He is currently drawing the plans for the enclosure. These plans will be used as one of requirements needed in order to gets permits to start the project from the Costa Rican government. Rafiki and Chester University will start scientic investigation of the proposed enclosure area. Master students will study a variety of elements within the area. These studies will give information not only for the area in question, but the data can be extrapolated to better understand the entire corridor that is under the protection of ASANA. Another important alliance was also formed between Chester University and the University of Costa Rica. 

As always, thanks for your support!

First of all, I wish to thank you wholeheartedly for your past support of ASANA’s work in Costa Rica’s Path of the Tapir Biological Corridor and Savegre River Watershed in the past… Most of 2015 was an extraordinary year for us and I want to share two huge achievements and one piece of very unfortunate news…. I very much hope you can find space in your year-end giving to make a donation to ASANA before the end of 2015, if you haven’t already!

First, the good news….

Savegre River Watershed Protected!

Costa Rican President Luis Guillermo Solís signed a presidential decree banning hydroelectric dams from the Savegre River for 25 years. This is a huge achievement and supports ASANA’s work to conserve and protect the Savegre River Watershed. It also opens the door for the Costa Rican government to bolster ASANA’s programs in sustainable development in the region. It is a real win for local communities and nature. (Go here to see an article in the Tico Times)

ASANA Wins Prestigious Global Award!

After competing against many, many other worthy organizations, ASANA was recognized by The PeaceJam Foundation as the global “Best Non-profit Act”.  Our executive director (and only employee!), Andrea Herrera was invited to receive the award in Monaco in June of this year from Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Adolfo Pérez Esquivel of Argentina. (Go here to see PeaceJam’s announcement and footage of Andrea receiving the award!)

Now, the unfortunate news…

Just a few weeks ago, while on her way to a Path of the Tapir local council meeting, Andrea was in a horrible car accident that nearly claimed her life….  She suffered four broken limbs and various other injuries.  As we have noted many times in the past, Andrea is the heart and soul of ASANA and is responsible for almost every bit of success and progress we have enjoyed since she joined ASANA almost 5 years ago… We ask for your thoughts and prayers for Andrea.

While we are gravely concerned about Andrea and focused on her recovery, all of us in ASANA also want to take this opportunity to thank you and wish you and yours peace and happiness in 2016. 

Warm regards,

Richard Margoluis

Vice-president, ASANA

P.S.  To make a donation, please do so through our Global Giving project site (Go here) to take advantage of tax deductions before the end of 2015. Or, go to Global Giving at www.globalgiving.org and search for ASANA. Thanks!