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Objectives and Rules

Chi Forest and The Entangled Forest are biological reserves. Consequently the management is committed to adhere to the following objectives:

OBJECTIVES:

1. To recuperate and protect the natural habitat of the area, including the structure of the forest, the soils, creeks and rocks.
   
   
2. To be a source of seeds for the majority of the species of trees of Esmeraldas Province.
   
   
3. To Maintain examples of a variety of exotic plants.
   
   
4. To experiment with local resources that can be sustainably used, to open new markets and employment for locals and at the same time support the conservation of habitat and biodiversity.
   
   
5. To experiment with and exhibit Permaculture techniques and forms of sustainable energy.
   
   
6. To provide quality educational, recreational and hospitality services.

Similarly, residents and visitors are obliged to uphold the following rules:

RULES:

1. Protect all terrestrial and aquatic native species of the area. This obviously means no hunting, trapping or fishing, no felling of trees or damage of any kind to vegetation in Chi Forest. The exception is the sustainable felling of timber in the forest north of Tongorachí Creek. This protection is not just a passive process but will include actions to recover populations lost through hunting, logging and habitat destruction. These may include animals such as crustaceans and fish, sloths, monkeys, bush turkeys, iguanas and snakes and plants such as Cedar, Spiky Mamey and some palm species.
   
   
2. Do not litter. All waste must go in the provided bins divided into: organics and inorganics.
   
   
3. Do not use detergent or soap in the creeks. There are designated washing areas located adjacent to residence facilities with their water treatment systems.
   
   
4. Do not use any synthetic or otherwise toxic substances. This includes agrochemicals, disposable batteries, Chloro-fluoro refrigeration systems or even food additives. In extreme cases low level use of biodegradable agro-chemicals are accepted until alternatives are found.
   
   
5. Do not remove soil or rocks or cause erosion in any way. The exception to this is the work done in landscaping and other construction.
   
   
6. Do not burn anything. The only exceptions to this are spiny branches or infected material that pose danger to humans, and candles.