Page 491 - Sustainable Cities and Communities Design Handbook

Sustainable Communities in Costa Rica Chapter j 22 461

Parque Nacional Tortuguero has high rainforests to marshy lowlands, long
stretches of beach, and canals, and it is the most important breeding grounds
for the green sea turtle.

Central Areas
1
Rancho Mastatal is located 2 / 2 hours west of San Jose in the mountains of
Puriscal. It spans an area of 300 acres and is considered “an education center,
working permaculture farm, lodge and community rooted in environmental
sustainability, meaningful, place-based livelihoods, and caring relationships.”
This is a place to learn about sustainable living by just being there and
participating. Living in cooperation with the local community they write, “The
people of Mastatal are involved in every phase of our projects. They are
greatly responsible for its success. We are honored to work and live amongst
and share with such special people.” I am sure they mean it, for only people
who want to live in concert with nature, and taking care of it, do love to be in
cooperation with people of their communities.