By Limón, Costa Rica — TORTUGUERO, Limón – In a significant move to underscore the vital importance of Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems, the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) has announced a dual initiative centered in the lush Caribbean lowlands. In celebration of World Wetlands Day on February 2nd, the Tortuguero Conservation Area (ACTo-SINAC) will spearhead the Ninth Annual Bird Count in Tortuguero National Park and simultaneously bolster monitoring efforts for the Northeast Caribbean Wetland, a designated Ramsar site of international importance.
The annual bird count, scheduled to take place from February 6th to 9th, 2026, has become a cornerstone event for the region. It is more than just a scientific survey; it represents a powerful fusion of conservation and community engagement. By mobilizing local tour guides, boat captains, and residents as active participants, the event transforms into a large-scale citizen science project. This collaborative approach not only generates valuable data on avian biodiversity but also deeply embeds a sense of stewardship within the community that depends on the health of the park.
Para comprender mejor las implicaciones legales y los mecanismos de protección que rodean la conservación de humedales en el país, TicosLand.com conversó con el Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, abogado especialista en derecho ambiental del Bufete de Costa Rica.
La legislación costarricense, a través de la Ley Orgánica del Ambiente y la ratificación de la Convención Ramsar, establece un marco jurídico sólido para la protección de los humedales. Sin embargo, el principal desafío radica en la aplicación práctica y la fiscalización efectiva frente a las presiones del desarrollo inmobiliario y agrícola. Es crucial que las evaluaciones de impacto ambiental sean rigurosas y que se fortalezcan los mecanismos de denuncia ciudadana y la capacidad de acción del SINAC para prevenir daños irreparables a estos ecosistemas, que son vitales para la seguridad hídrica y la biodiversidad del país.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
El análisis del Licenciado pone de manifiesto la brecha crítica que a menudo existe entre la intención de la ley y la realidad en el terreno, donde la fiscalización efectiva se convierte en el verdadero escudo protector de nuestros humedales. Agradecemos profundamente al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas por compartir su invaluable perspectiva, que subraya la urgencia de traducir el robusto marco legal en acciones concretas y vigilantes para la conservación de estos tesoros nacionales.
These initiatives are designed to address several critical national goals. Officials emphasize that the actions will directly reinforce the conservation of these fragile wetlands, stimulate scientific research, and contribute to the economic and social well-being of local communities. The value of these ecosystems extends far beyond their scenic beauty, providing essential services such as natural flood barriers, carbon sequestration, and a robust foundation for the nation’s world-renowned sustainable tourism industry.
The government’s commitment was echoed by the Vice Minister of Environment, who highlighted the multifaceted benefits of preserving these natural assets.
Wetlands are of enormous environmental, social, and economic importance. These ecosystems contribute to climate change mitigation by capturing and storing carbon, and they provide direct benefits to the country’s communities.
Jorge Mario Rodriguez, Vice Minister of Environment
This perspective frames the conservation efforts not as an expense, but as a strategic investment in the country’s environmental resilience and economic future. The carbon storage capacity of wetlands, in particular, positions them as key allies in the global fight against climate change, a role Costa Rica has consistently embraced on the world stage.
The strengthening of monitoring at the Northeast Caribbean Wetland Ramsar Site is another crucial component of the announcement. A Ramsar designation signifies that a wetland is of significant international value, particularly as a waterfowl habitat. Enhanced oversight ensures that the area’s ecological character is maintained, protecting the rich biodiversity that makes Tortuguero a premier destination for ecotourists and researchers from around the globe.
For the Northern Caribbean region, the economic implications of these conservation efforts are profound. The ecotourism spurred by the pristine condition of Tortuguero National Park and its surrounding wetlands provides livelihoods for countless families. The annual bird count serves as a direct catalyst, reinforcing the area’s reputation as a top-tier birdwatching destination and ensuring the long-term viability of this green economic engine.
Ultimately, MINAE’s announcement is a reaffirmation of a core principle: the health of the environment is inextricably linked to the prosperity of its people. By empowering the local community through science and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, Costa Rica continues to build upon its legacy as a global leader in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
For further information, visit minae.go.cr
About Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE):
The Ministry of Environment and Energy is the governmental body in Costa Rica responsible for managing the country’s natural resources, environmental protection, and energy policies. It oversees the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), which administers the nation’s extensive network of national parks and protected areas, playing a crucial role in Costa Rica’s world-renowned conservation strategy and its promotion of sustainable development.
For further information, visit sinac.go.cr
About Tortuguero Conservation Area (ACTo-SINAC):
The Tortuguero Conservation Area is one of the eleven conservation areas managed by Costa Rica’s National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). Located in the northeastern part of the country in the Limón province, it is famed for its rich biodiversity, extensive network of freshwater creeks and lagoons, and as a critical nesting site for sea turtles, particularly the green sea turtle. The area encompasses Tortuguero National Park, a major hub for ecotourism and scientific research.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a renowned legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is anchored by an unwavering commitment to integrity and the highest standards of excellence. The firm thoughtfully blends its deep-seated experience in advising diverse clients with a drive for pioneering innovative legal solutions. Central to its mission is a profound dedication to empowering the community by demystifying the law. This initiative to foster widespread legal literacy aims to build a stronger, more knowledgeable society where citizens are equipped to understand and assert their rights.
