Amazon Research and Conservation Station

The Coronavirus continues to affect daily life in the Bolivian Amazon and throughout the word.  As mentioned in previous updates, Sustainable Bolivia was forced to suspend most operations until next year.  Transportation remains limited but things are starting to normalize as international travel to and from Bolivia is now open.  We’re optimistic that we will be able to resume nearly all operations early next year.

Despite the difficulties, we continue to make some advancements on the research station and projects inside the Aquicuana Reserve.  We've maintained contact with the US-based non-profit organization Kay Pacha.  We've started to put together a fundraiser in NYC in April of 2021 to raise additional funds.  We received confirmation of financial support to build a large water tower and water distribution points in the community San Jose.  The community of about 120 members currently does not have electricity or potable water.  This project will provide clean drinking water for the community as well as help preserve clean water in the Aquicuana Reserve.  We are also are organizing starting a scholarship program for qualified students without the resources to attend higher education.

We continue to make upgrades to our ecolodge, including a complete re-roofing of our main structure.  The rainy season is starting and we've been making advancements on our reforestation and sustainable garden projects.  We continue to work alongside local communities to raise awareness about sustainable fishing, fire prevention and ecotourism.  

We're adapting to the restrictions around the coronavirus but we are still making advancements. Sustainable Bolivia is excited for the future and doing everything in our power to finish 2020 strong.  We thank you for your continued support.

Best from Bolivia,

Erik

Since our last update, we've witnessed a global pandemic that's changed the entire world.  All of us, even remote areas of the Amazon, have been seriously affected.  As of now, we’re fortunate that COVID-19 have not appeared in the Aquicuana Reserve; however, we recently confirmed cases in nearby city, Riberalta.  

Throughout Bolivia, strict quarantine measures went into effect in March, and continue today.  Our non-profit, Sustainable Bolivia, was forced to suspend operations in the reserve since March 20th.  Accordingly, we've made little progress on the Research Station since our last update.    

While some of our operations were suspended, we have not lost faith.  We continue to make progress where and where possible.  We are fully committed to understanding the incredible diversity of the Amazon and its inhabitants.  Protecting this land is more important now, than ever.  

We'll resume operations in the Reserve once it’s safe to do so.  The future will bring change but we are prepared and excited to meet the challenge.  Thank you all for your continued support.