Cows, forests and the volcano – Costa Rica

Photographer’s comment: “Proximity and easy access are key determinants of the rate at which natural resources deplete. The challenge is in finding a good balance between what we take and what we leave. This landscape presents a mosaic of options – farming, ecotourism, grazing- there has been obvious deforestation here but the landscape remains ‘natural’ and vibrant. The area is called Santa Cruz, in central Costa Rica, near the city of Turrialba, an area known for its milk, cheese and, more recently, ecotourism. There is an active volcano in the area. I spent 1 year in the area, working for an international research center, CATIE. “