Most endangered rainforest lands are in private hands. This makes land acquisition an important element in accomplishing the strategic goals of Nature and Culture International. Purchasing land requires a direct and fair approach to property owners in order to protect their special pockets of high biodiversity. In many cases, land purchase is a terrific outcome for all concerned. Through the acqusition of crucial parcels, Nature and Culture has been able to expand existing national parks, create new natural reserves and help preserve important watersheds.

A clear example of the potential of land purchase for conservation is the protection of the headwaters of the Nea River. By purchasing 700 acres Nature and Culture preserved a key piece of the ecological forest corridor that connects three of the world’s highest priority ecosystems; the Tumbesian Dry, Andean, and Upper Amazonian forests in Ecuador.

But just as important, the Nea River is the vital source of water for 10,000 people in the city of Zamora and surrounding towns. Its protection was a critical piece for both communities and biodiversity.

After completing the purchase, NCI transferred the property to FORAGUA – the Southern Ecuador Regional Water Trust Fund initiated by NCI to preserve watersheds and biodiversity in southern Ecuador. This will secure its long term management and conservation through environmental fees collected by the Municipality of Zamora.