Bombón Cloud Forest Reserve

 

Introduction

The Bombón Cloud Forest Reserve is a 700 hectare area of primary cloud forest in the Amazon region of Ecuador. Ecuador Tierra Viva has been granted stewardship of the reserve and are managing its resources with the participation of local and international scientists and the local community of Gonzalo Diaz de Pineda.

There's little doubt that the pressure for natural conservation and the needs of a developing society can create conflict of opinion and a prioritization dilemma. ETV's effort to promote conservation through local participation will help stimulate employment in the area and provide alternatives to incomes dependant on deforestation. We hope that this small but magnificent piece of the Amazon forests can be preserved as a pristine legacy for future generations to enjoy.

Scientists and volunteers interested in helping our study and conservation of this unique corner of the Amazon should contact our Quito office for further information.

Our Conservation and Study plan requires the following input:

Scientific zone:

• Observation and study of climatic influences on the plant species in Bombón

Cloud Forest Reserve.

• Observation and recording of all species in the reserve – as yet this remains an unstudied area.

Agricultural zone:

• How appropriate agricultural techniques can produce viable outputs with minimum adverse impact on the natural ecosystem

Tourist zone:

• Study leading to recommended proposal for introduction of appropriate tourist services for the Bombón Cloud Forest Reserve

Buffer Zone:

• Reforestation of areas surrounding the Bombón Cloud Forest Reserve to create a protective buffer zone
• Adding content to the existing education and employment infrastructure that will encourage people from the community to acquire the skills and knowledge to integrate within the Bombón Cloud Forest Reserve project

Cultural Zone:

• Research and study of the historical, cultural and human aspects of the zone to highlight traditions and relationships with neighbouring communities.