The Petén: Central America's Last Virgin Rainforest
Northern Guatemala is home to the last fully intact tract of rainforest in Central America, the Petén Rainforest. Hidden deep within this jungle are natural and cultural resources that are as priceless as they are irreplaceable. Much of this forest remains unexplored despite the treasure trove of archaeological discoveries awaiting scientists deep in the Petén's Mirador Basin. Scientists and conservators are in a race against time to save this pristine landscape and document the ancient Mayan ruins contained therein before it is all gone.
The Petén is threatened by Logging and Slash-and-Burn Farming
Unless action is taken immediately, the Petén won't be around much longer. As logging roads creep deeper and deeper into the virgin forest, it is quickly being enveloped by desolation and destruction. In recent years, fires from the region have been so severe that they have forced school closures as far away as Houston, Texas.
FARES is Working to Save the Petén
The Foundation for Anthropological Research and Environmental Studies is working with government agencies, conservation groups, and other organizations to establish and develop a roadless wilderness preserve in the Petén. This roadless system would hold back loggers, looters, and arsonists, while simultaneously allowing alternate, low-impact forms of access for tourists. The resulting millions upon millions of dollars of tourism revenue will not only provide the surrounding communities with the economic justification they need to preserve this land, it will also improve their standard of living.
FARES Needs Your Help!
The policy advocacy, preservation programs, and infrastructure development required to achieve these goals requires a substantial financial investment. Your generous contributions to the FARES foundation make a tangible difference in preserving this last precious stretch of rainforest. Click here to make a secure, tax-deductible donation or to print a donation form. Thank you.