Open Doors is a tradition that was born in 2008. The event has been evolving as a means of community outreach at the Las Cruces Research Station and Wilson Botanical Garden, with the intention of opening the station’s doors once a year to all people in the community of Coto Brus and surroundings. It is a day to share scientific knowledge, engage in environmental education activities, develop an appreciation of the impact of outdoor activity on physical and mental health, take in art and music exhibitions, peruse the sale of local products, and engage in diverse learning experiences, all amid nature.
This year’s event continued an emphasis on circular economy, with a market focused on the work of local artisans offering handmade goods or products with materials sustainably extracted from the forests (i.e. seeds for costume jewelry, natural beeswax candles, honey, wines, etc.) or with reusable materials, such as glass repurposed to make stained glass, keychains, or similar products. In addition, a second-hand book trade was held to promote sustainable culture.
The event included games and environmental education with the participation of long-time allies, such as the Department of Environmental Management of the Municipality of Coto Brus, the San Vito Bird Club, the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), and Finca Cántaros, all of whom attended to many children and their families. Guided Natural History walks were offered at various times, with the support of the station guide and volunteer guides. The Las Cruces kitchen staff prepared delicious traditional dishes for sale to visitors. Staff of the Wilson Botanical Garden grew up 873 native tree seedlings for donation to visitors. OTS hopes to see these trees thrive in home gardens in the region for many years to come.
Las Cruces science was also represented. Of the many research projects carried out at Las Cruces Research Station and surroundings, scientists presented their results and/or experiences in the field, bringing everyone closer to knowing more about the biodiversity present in the area. Topics included the interactions between birds and plants, the ecological behavior of amphibians, and ecological restoration. In addition, a sample of a documentary on insects was shown, which was filmed at the La Selva Research Station and shows the intensity with which these small animals fight to survive in tropical forests.
A different cultural proposal
Every year, the cultural showcase varies. This year, we had the honor of presenting the Boruca theater group “Non Cuanxá,” which means the Monkey’s Tail. This was a play that kept the entire audience captivated, bringing us closer to the Boruca indigenous cosmovision and its relationship with nature. Of course, the typical dances and a Creole Swing class by a Coto Brus folkloric ballet group could not be missed. And as a great final closing, we welcomed the Calypso group “Leche de Coco,” who taught us about this genre that little known in some regions of the country, but which plays a very important role in the Afro-descendant culture of Costa Rica. Additionally, the station provided space for a recreational chess tournament for children and young people, hosted by the Coto Brus Chess Academy, an activity that calls on us to live in the present and speed up our concentration skills.
New local allies and strengthening of nature conservation efforts
Open Doors is an opportunity to share, make new friends, and remember that the nature conservation work carried out by the Organization for Tropical Studies would not be possible without the support of allies, volunteers, visitors, and the great work of the Las Cruces Research Station staff.
Banner photo credit: Rubén Ramos