We do all that we can to preserve the land we inhabit and places we visit on a daily basis. We have purchased about 110 acres of land much of which is covered in secondary forest. We only use a small percentage for our facility. The rest is maintained in reserve for nature trails, wildlife observation, reintroduction of native species of flora, and native habit for fauna.
We are involved on several levels with the province of Bocas del Toro, the local people and Panama in regards to environmental issues, sustainable development, sustainable use of natural resources, local tour development, and the future of the archipelago.
We work with several indigenous communities developing touristic products that accentuate their natural culture, use of sustainable resources and environment. Several of the tourism projects we are developing now involve conservation organizations working in the area, local research scientists, indigenous communities, ANAM (Panamanian environmental agency) local NGO's and private sector eco-tourism companies. We feel that all parties that have a stake in the local community need to be involved for the projects to be successful. If all parties don't "buy in" non-sustainable practices will continue. Everyone needs an economic benefit for this to work long term.
We are also currently involved in conjunction with Salt Creek village (indigenous Ngobe Bugle) ANAM, and the Defensora de los Pueblos (Panamanian Govt. Agency) to secure a reserve adjoining the Bastimentos National Marine Park. This area is a refuge for flora and fauna, and also an important area for the harvesting of Penca's (palm leafs used for thatched roofs).
