Projects
We have many goals, and intent to undertake many projects, but the following at at the core of our mission:
Implementation of a community-based management strategy for mountain tapir populations in Colombia.
We focus on the development of a community-based mountain tapir management model to be implemented in areas where urgent actions are required to mitigate the threats to the species. We developed a pilot project in the region of the Colombian Massif in the municipality of San Agustin, in the southern Andes of Colombia. There we have delimited an area of community management of the species that we have called Puraguá, because it connects the National Parks of Puracé and Guácharos and is located in one of the areas of greater hydric importance in Colombia.
Puraguá Mountain Tapír Comunity-Based Management Area (in yellow): This area, with an extension of nearly 120 km2, serves as a refuge for at least 25 mountain tapirs and many human communities around.
Protection and Restoration of Crucial Habitat Areas for Mountain Tapirs.
Contrary to popular belief, there are many rural areas where forests are recovering naturally, after former farms have been largely abandoned by the migration of young people to the cities. In this process, the mountain tapir is our ally contributing to the dispersion of seeds in recovering forests. At the same time, we seek to demonstrate to young people that a new paradigm of production is possible if activities are developed that are compatible with the conservation of biodiversity.
Pioneer plants and a new generation, looking towards a new paradigm in which human presence is compatible with biodiversity and the mountain tapir makes its part.
Initiatives for Sustainable Food Production to Enhance Food Security for Local Communities
We are developing strategies for diversified organic production, aiming to increase food self-sufficiency for local communities. The initiatives will prioritize sustainable practices, healthier, and more nutritious products while ensuring the food security of the communities living near the mountain tapirs.
Citizen Science-Based Training
The Foundation runs a citizen science-based training program in collaboration with local leaders, fostering a deeper understanding of biodiversity conservation among community members. This program involves various educational activities, workshops, and hands-on experiences, empowering locals to contribute to conservation efforts and become environmental stewards.
The training of local environmental leaders in the use of equipment and research techniques strengthens the collaborative work between academia and the community.
Establishment of a Research Center together with local partners
One major milestone we are working towards with the Foundation is the establishment of a Research Center. This center will serve as a hub for studying mountain tapirs and their habitat. It will facilitate collaborative research between scientists, conservationists, and local communities, supporting the preservation of the mountain tapir and associated ecosystems.
We work with the communities to adapt existing spaces in order to allow the influx of researchers to the mountain tapir community-based management areas.
Promoting Science Based Expeditions to Benefit the Communities and the Conservation Efforts
The Foundation aims to develop and promote local scientific oriented expeditions, generating economic opportunities for the communities while simultaneously raising awareness about the importance of conservation. By attracting visitors to experience the beauty of the natural landscape and its inhabitants, the Foundation seeks to establish a sustainable economic model that supports local economy.
