13. ESTABLISHING A MOUNTAIN ALMOND SEEDS VALUE CHAIN
WHAT DOES THIS PROJECT DO?
This project generates sustainable livelihoods by taking advantage of the natural capital of the buffer and core zone of the Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge (RNVSM) where land use is strongly restricted and enforced, using a key endangered tree (mountain almendron – Dipteryx panamensis) and its associated endangered wildlife umbrella species (Great Green Macaw – Ara ambiguus). Communities and landowners directly implement the project to carry out production, processing, and marketing activities through a cooperative model with opportunities for small and medium size farmers of the RNVSM and its buffer zone. In addition, the project emphasizes environmentally friendly agriculture to encourage bene ciaries to improve their income from a non-traditional crop.
HOW IS IT GOVERNED?
Decisions are subject to the governance model of the producers’ cooperatives. The University for International Cooperation participates as a promoter and contributor of investment resources, supporting CECOS. A monitoring and evaluation committee is formed to recommend adjustments to the business strategy.
WHAT IS THIS PROJECT?
A cooperative that harvests, processes, commercializes a brand new highly nutritious wild nut from an endangered tree and controls the process of business linkage and provides technical assistance and direct investment in a production center, and a nucleus for receiving and distributing payments among farmers and landowners.
HOW IS IT VALIDATED?
Contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals
Budget (USD)
(USD): 110.000
First Phase Needs
(USD): 80.000
Type of Project
Philanthropy Mostly Impact Investment
Timeframe
2 years
Geographical Scope
Sarapiquí & San Carlos (Water & Peace Biosphere Reserve)
Partners
Sarapiquí Conservation Learning Center (CECOS), local communities’ associations
Target
Forest landowners in Sarapiquí and San Carlos
WHAT DOES THIS PROJECT DO?
This project generates sustainable livelihoods by taking advantage of the natural capital of the buffer and core zone of the Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge (RNVSM) where land use is strongly restricted and enforced, using a key endangered tree (mountain almendron – Dipteryx panamensis) and its associated endangered wildlife umbrella species (Great Green Macaw – Ara ambiguus). Communities and landowners directly implement the project to carry out production, processing, and marketing activities through a cooperative model with opportunities for small and medium size farmers of the RNVSM and its buffer zone. In addition, the project emphasizes environmentally friendly agriculture to encourage beneficiaries to improve their income from a non-traditional crop.
WHAT IS THIS PROJECT?
A cooperative that harvests, processes, commercializes a brand new highly nutritious wild nut from an endangered tree and controls the process of business linkage and provides technical assistance and direct investment in a production center, and a nucleus for receiving and distributing payments among farmers and landowners.
HOW IS IT GOVERNED?
Decisions are subject to the governance model of the producers’ cooperatives. The University
for International Cooperation participates as a promoter and contributor of investment resources, supporting CECOS. A monitoring and evaluation committee is formed to recommend adjustments to the business strategy.
HOW IS IT VALIDATED?
By measuring productivity (invoicing versus expenses and investments), the formation
of a cooperative, farmers / landowners, and associated family units, total harvest and production (tons), territorial agreements, sales contracts, logistical models.
Contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals
"The future can't be predicted but it can be envisioned and brought lovingly into being. Systems can't be controlled, but they can be designed and redesigned."
- Donella Meadows