Rainforest Biodiversity Group, in conjunction with other local conservation organizations, has been raising money since 2001 to ensure the protection of trees that endangered Great Green Macaws nest in, which are almost exclusively mature Almendro trees. There are just over 60 known Great Green Macaw nests in Costa Rica. Some of the nests are used every year, while others are not. As the macaws are very selective, each identified nest holds incredible biological value.
To make sure these nest trees stay standing, a program has been established to give landowners some incentives to protect nest trees on their land. Landowners who are willing to protect these nest trees have two options to receive a monetary prize for their conservation work. They can receive between $100 and $200 a year per nest, plus a certificate recognizing their assistance with the conservation of the Great Green Macaw. Alternatively, they can receive a one time donation of $500 and have a large plaque put on the tree recognizing its importance. This recognition helps protect macaw nests and involves people voluntarily to promote awareness of the Great Green Macaw and its needs. So far 14 nests have been adopted.
To date, RBG has donated $200 each year for the last 6 years. In 2008, RBG will donate $300 for this program. RBG collaborates with the Tropical Science Center (CCT) on the adoption of nests, and donations for nests can either be made to RBG or directly to CCT.
