Pacuare River Earns Ecological Blue Flag

(EMAILWIRE.COM, February 27, 2009 ) COSTA RICAÂ—The Costa Rica government recently awarded the highest rating for river watersheds, the Ecological Blue Flag, to the Pacuare River region. The process to get the recognition was spearheaded by the common owners of the Pacuare Lodge and Aventuras Naturales. The Pacuare has long been considered one of the worldÂ’s top white-water rivers for rafting and kayaking. The Blue Flag rating confirms that it is also sound environmentally.

The Costa Rica government started this program in 1996 to spur cleanup of the countryÂ’s beaches. The lodgeÂ’s owners formed formed the required committee, completed the application for recognition and worked with local communities to involve them in the riverÂ’s protection. Government officials then inspect the water quality, trash cleanup, waste management, security, signage and environmental education. After a period of a year, the award was announced. The official ceremony will take place in March with the participation of President Oscar Arias.

The company has always operated to ensure that the lodge has no negative impact on the river and works with local farmers and guests to plant trees in the watershed. Consistent with their belief that responsible tourism should benefit and respect local communities, the Community Support Program works directly with people and institutions in the Pacuare area by providing economic assistance, improving and maintaining roads, and by coordinating the donation of economic resources and equipment. Costa Rica Nature Adventures also donates a percentage of each Internet reservation directly to the three primary schools located along the Pacuare River. From the beginning, Costa Rica Nature Adventures has continually strived to form relationships with companies that respect the environment. This is reflected in their choice of hotels and lodges, the people they hire, and the equipment they use.
###

Pacuare Lodge
John Kloster
941-764-7975
John@atmstravelnews.com