COSTA RICA CENTER FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STUDIES LOCATION RESEARCH THEMES CORE SKILLS Atenas, Central Valley Climate change & tropical ecosystems Agroforestry & conservation Permaculture Avian behavior Urban ecology Sustainable ecotourism Carbon sequestration GIS Biodiversity assessment Songbird mist-netting Carbon stock assessment Forest soundscape survey Research design and implementation Research presentation Data collection and analysis Basic Spanish language WWW.FIELDSTUDIES.ORG/COSTARICA OVERVIEW GO OFF THE BEATEN PATH AND EXPERIENCE SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION The rugged rainforests and sandy beaches of Costa Rica are brimming with life – from sloths to frogs to brightly colored toucans and hummingbirds. Costa Rica hosts an astounding 5 percent of Earth’s species despite covering only 0.03 percent of its area. Shaded coffee farms integrated into the rainforest constitute just one example of the sustainable conservation strategies for which the country is known. These efforts to preserve the wild beauty of Costa Rica are recognized worldwide, but climate change and increased urban development bring new and unforeseen challenges. Conservation leaders, farmers, land managers, and policymakers must work together using regenerative strategies to build ecological resilience and minimize climate change impacts. Our research in Costa Rica contributes vital data to innovative efforts that balance conservation and development. LIFE AT THE CENTER The Center is an active organic farm overlooking the vibrant Central Valley, where green is the predominant color as far as the eye can see. Dorms and classrooms intermingle with orchards and gardens, while Center dog Hera keeps watch over it all. The friendly town of Atenas is a 10-minute cab ride away, offering restaurants, shops, parks, and cultural events. Dorm living with fourperson bunkrooms Open-air porch with hammocks and chairs Swimming pool, soccer field, outdoor classroom, pizza oven Classroom, library, computer lab, and laundry room Dining hall with scenic valley views, and on-site cooking staff Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farm 18 The School for Field Studies