CATIE Research Strengthens Fire Prevention in Costa Rica and the Region

• A CATIE graduate’s thesis also opened new professional opportunities

Transforming the way fire is understood and managed in territories was the objective of the research conducted by Ireana Lara Damken, a graduate of the Master’s Program in Management and Conservation of Tropical Forests and Biodiversity at CATIE’s Graduate School (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center).

Her thesis, “Strengthening Fire Governance in the Tempisque Conservation Area, Costa Rica, as a Wildfire Prevention Strategy,” addressed—through an innovative approach—one of the regions with the highest incidence of forest fires in the country. The study integrated territorial analysis, key stakeholders, and governance dynamics to improve prevention efforts.

Thanks to the knowledge acquired during her graduate studies, Ireana expanded her understanding of the causes and impacts of wildfires, fire use practices, and existing governance structures. She also developed a heat-spot mapping and identified concrete challenges to strengthen fire management.

“The master’s program provided me with statistical and conceptual foundations, as well as a deeper understanding of the complexity of the territory, the different actors involved, and the need to listen to diverse perspectives to resolve conflicts,” she explains.

The project was strengthened through partnerships with SINAC and other stakeholders of the Chorotega Model Forest, connections facilitated by CATIE through the Latin American Model Forest Network, demonstrating how applied research can generate real impact in territories.

Today, Ireana continues to develop this work through an internship at CATIE, contributing to fire governance not only in Costa Rica but also in other Latin American countries, thereby consolidating the professional benefits of her graduate training.

Enrollment for the Master’s Program in Management and Conservation of Tropical Forests and Biodiversity at CATIE’s Graduate School is currently open. In addition, you can participate in a free professional development bootcamp—an opportunity to learn about the program’s approach and apply for scholarships of up to 80%, subject to selection.

More information about the Master’s program: https://www.catie.ac.cr/maestria-academica-internacional-en-manejo-y-conservacion-de-bosques-tropicales-y-biodiversidad/

Access the thesis at: https://repositorio.catie.ac.cr/handle/11554/12705