Xploring Pacuare:
A Story of Conservation and Human Connection
Xploring Pacuare is a short documentary highlighting the conservation efforts of EPI at Pacuare Reserve - a lively research station nestled on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.
In partnership with Xplorer Maps, this short documentary explores the intersection of art and conservation through shared vision and collaboration.
World-renowned artist and co-founder of Xplorer Maps, Chris Robitaille, and his daughter, Becca Robitaille, have created a beautiful story, bringing cartography to life.
Follow along on this father-daughter adventure as they learn about the critical research led by the tireless team of ecologists, volunteers, and educators at the Reserve.
Photo credit Juan José Pucci
Watch the full video!
Photo credit Marco Avalos
Connecting Conservation and Art:
A Collaborative Journey with Xplorer Maps
In addition to recording their time at The Reserve, the fillm delves into the collaboration between Xplorer Maps and EPI (both based in Missoula, MT). These two organizations share a common mission, striving to connect people and place. This collaborative journey has paved the way for an innovative exploration of conservation cartography as a means to realize this shared goal.
Through this partnership, Xplorer Maps has created a stunning illustrated map of Costa Rica, highlighting the country's most iconic species. This beautiful work of art not only showcases Costa Rica's rich biodiversity but also serves a greater purpose. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these maps supports EPI and the Pacuare Reserve, directly benefiting their vital conservation efforts.
Get your illustrated Costa Rica map here and support conservation at EPI and Pacuare Reserve!
About Pacuare Reserve and
Ecology Project International
Pacuare Reserve was established in 1989, transforming former farmland into a flourishing lowland tropical forest. It now protects some of the most critical nesting sites for endangered leatherback sea turtles in the country.
The nonprofit organization Ecology Project International traces its origins to these very shores. In the year 2000, EPI embarked on groundbreaking initiatives to bridge the gap between local community members and state-of-the-art research and conservation endeavors in Costa Rica.
In 2016, EPI assumed the role of stewards for Pacuare Reserve, and they have since maintained their dedication to preserving habitats, conducting wildlife research, and promoting accessible environmental and sustainable education for both local communities and visitors alike.
Pacuare Reserve is now a thriving hub of biodiversity, home to hundreds of captivating wildlife species. Within its boundaries, it safeguards critical nesting grounds for endangered and elusive creatures like leatherback sea turtles and the exquisite agami heron and serves as a crucial wildlife corridor for the movement of large cats in Central America.