Nosara Civic Association (NCA)
The Nosara Civic Association (NCA) is a nonprofit organization based in Nosara, Costa Rica, dedicated to environmental conservation, sustainable development, and community engagement. Since its establishment in 1975, the NCA has played a pivotal role in preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Nosara region.
Key Initiatives and Achievements
- Environmental Conservation
Ostional Wildlife Refuge: The NCA was instrumental in the 1985 expansion of the Ostional Wildlife Refuge to include Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada. This move protected these beaches from overdevelopment, ensuring they remain pristine and free from beachfront construction.
Land Stewardship: The association owns and manages over 240 hectares of reforested land, known as the Nosara Parklands. These secondary forests sequester approximately 7.8 tons of carbon per hectare annually, contributing significantly to carbon offset efforts.
- Community Infrastructure and Trails
Trail Network: The NCA maintains an 18-kilometer network of trails that connect various parts of Nosara, including Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada. These trails promote eco-friendly transportation and provide residents and visitors with access to the region’s natural landscapes.
Public Park Development: The association is overseeing the transformation of a former open-air dump into a public park, aiming to enhance community spaces while addressing past environmental concerns.
- Scientific Research and Education
Biodiversity Studies: In collaboration with national and international institutions, the NCA conducts research on local biodiversity, including wildlife monitoring through camera traps and studies on aquifer dynamics to understand groundwater risks.
Environmental Education: Through programs like COVIRENA (Beach Inspectors), the NCA educates the community on environmental laws and wildlife protection, fostering a culture of conservation.
- Advocacy and Community Engagement
Policy Influence: The NCA advises local municipalities and holds a seat on CIMACO (Interinstitutional Advisory Council for the Ostional Wildlife Refuge), influencing decisions that impact regional conservation efforts.
Community Programs: The association supports initiatives aimed at empowering women, promoting safety, and celebrating local culture, thereby strengthening community bonds.
Get Involved
The NCA welcomes support from individuals who share a passion for preserving Nosara’s unique environment. You can contribute by:
Becoming a Member: Join a community of over 200 members dedicated to conservation and sustainable development.
Volunteering: Participate in various programs and initiatives that align with your interests and skills.
Donating: Support the NCA’s projects financially to help maintain and expand their conservation efforts.
For more information or to get involved, visit the Nosara Civic Association’s official website.nosaracivicassociation.com