Costa Rica Real Estate Project Bridges the Gap Between Man and Nature

Hacienda Matapalo, a gated community on Costa Rica’s South Pacific Coast, recently announced it will add a 500-plus foot treetop suspension bridge to its development that will stretch across a ravine along the property’s 125-acre nature preserve.

"One of the most appealing features of Hacienda Matapalo is being surrounded by a natural, lush rainforest," said the project’s Executive Vice President Brian Albury. "The development’s 125-plus acre dedicated nature preserve and 90 acre nature conservancy parcel have helped drive our efforts from the beginning to be a 'green,' low-impact development."

The suspension bridge is the latest feature to be added to the environmentally-minded development that will include an equestrian center and nature trails ideal for hiking and horseback riding. Because the majority of the area’s wildlife lives within the rainforest canopy, the hanging suspension bridge will close the gap between man and nature, allowing homeowners and visitors alike to have an up close and personal experience at the preserve.

Hacienda Matapalo Costa Rica Real Estate has tasked key members of its development team with the sole purpose of implementing and maintaining extensive environmental stewardship before, during and after construction.

“It is our goal to utilize the latest ‘green’ technology wherever possible without jeopardizing our commitment to deliver the highest standards to our homeowners,” Albury said. “We believe that a balance and harmony with nature and our immediate environment will make Hacienda Matapalo a truly unique place to live.”

Some of Hacienda Matapalo’s ongoing efforts include:

• Minimized clearing of the present land (dense forest to remain throughout constructed areas)
  
  
• A percentage ratio of 70:30 natural land to developed land (based on a total area of 665 acres)
  
  
• For every tree that must be removed, up to three trees will be planted as replacement
  
  
• There will be an onsite nursery
  
  
• There will be an onsite wastewater treatment plant
  
  
• Landscaping will consist of native species (reducing the need for water and fertilizer)
  
  
• Subterranean power and electrical lines will be used where feasible and strict safeguards will be in place to ensure above ground lines pose no threat to wildlife
  
  
• Recycling receptacles will be in place throughout the property, including an intensive recycling program
  
  
• Energy saving air-conditioning systems will be used
  
  
• A water agreement has been put into place to supply the nearby town of Hatillo with fresh drinking water
  
  
• Onsite lakes will serve as recession ponds, natural habitats and home for many native fish
  
  
• A biologist/naturalist with extensive knowledge of local flora and fauna will be on staff
  
  
• There will be ongoing communication and involvement with the homeowners and community (i.e. community awareness and social responsibility)
  
  
• Exploratory use of cutting-edge “green” technology will constantly be considered throughout development and construction

Albury pointed out that Hacienda Matapalo will also utilize environmentally friendly goods for many of its external building materials including: use of concrete which contains post-consumer materials, siding and external finishes that contain post-consumer materials, low or no volatile organic compounds (VOC) finishes/paints/adhesives, sustainable and locally farmed woods and materials, pervious or permeable pavers/materials for walkways and parking, recycled materials for roofing and materials that drain well and do not hold moisture or heat.

To learn more about Hacienda Matapalo and their Green Project, visit their Web site.