Blue Flag Award Celebrates Conservation Efforts in the Pacuare River Watershed
Citizen Water Observatory (OCA) Rio Pacuare Turrialba-Siquirres Earns Prestigious Recognition
RAFA, (Rivers and Forests Alliance) is proud to announce that the OCA Rio Pacuare Turrialba-Siquirres (Citizen Water Observatory) has proudly earned the Ecological Blue Flag in the Micro Drainage Basin category. The OCA Rio Pacuare Turrialba-Siquirres is part of a nationwide network of citizen-led groups under the National Alliance of Rivers and Watersheds of Costa Rica that are dedicated to water conservation. This award recognizes their dedication and collaborative efforts to protect the stunning Pacuare River Basin, one of Costa Rica’s natural treasures.
This achievement reflects the hard work and continued support of these dedicated OCA members: Finca Tres Equis, Pacuare Outdoor Center, Pacuare River Lodge, Coast to Coast Adventures, Pacuare Lodge, and Rios Lodge. RAFA is the organization that created the Guardians of the Pacuare Program, and facilitated the development of this first ever Pacuare River group of lodges into a Citizen Water Observatory.
Rios Lodge is honored to be part of OCA, the Guardians of the Pacuare Program, and to support RAFA. This is a wonderful continuation of our original lodge co-founder Rafa Gallo’s environmental legacy and commitment to the preservation of Costa Rica’s waterways.
What is the Blue Flag Program?
Costa Rica’s Blue Flag Ecological Program (Bandera Azul Ecológica) recognizes exceptional environmental stewardship, fostering sustainable practices to protect ecosystems and communities. Initially focused on maintaining clean beaches, the program has grown to include new categories, such as the Micro Drainage Basin, which honors efforts to protect small yet vital watersheds.
In 2007, Rafa Gallo joined the Committee for Costa Rica’s Blue Flag Ecological Program and helped create two new categories: Micro Watersheds and Natural Protected Spaces.
The Citizen Water Observatory
The OCA Rio Pacuare Turrialba-Siquirres is part of a nationwide network of citizen-led groups under RAFA, dedicated to water conservation. These observatories take proactive measures to monitor and protect rivers while educating communities about the importance of sustainable water management.
Their work aligns with the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the goal of universal access to clean water. By fostering community-driven solutions, the OCAs uphold the belief that water conservation is essential to both human life and environmental health.
A Legacy of Conservation
This Blue Flag award builds on the legacy of Rafa Gallo, who was instrumental in bringing global attention to the need for watershed conservation. Under his leadership, Rios Tropicales earned its first Blue Flag award in 2009 and every year since. Rafa’s vision continues to inspire ongoing collaboration in the Pacuare River Basin.
Rios Lodge is proud to support the dedicated efforts of OCA and RAFA in ensuring the Pacuare River remains pristine for generations to come. For travelers seeking an eco-conscious adventure, visiting the Pacuare River offers not only breathtaking beauty, but also a chance to support meaningful conservation work.
