We Built a Pond

August was another busy month for our Forest Guardians. On top of all their regular duties, they decided to add “digging a pond” to the list. Why? Well, they felt one was needed. And as usual, they had some really good reasons.

Reason #1: Water

Two years ago, we had several unusually dry months in the rainforest and the unexpected happened: we ran out of water.

Our ranger/research station depends on rainwater collection tanks for just about everything including cooking, cleaning, showers, toilets, and basically keeping life at the station running. But the rainforest is changing.

Humidity levels are dropping
Rainfall patterns are becoming less predictable
Long dry periods are becoming a new reality

So, our Forest Guardians came up with a solution.

This past August, they ran pipes from three different water sources higher up the mountain to help keep our tanks filled. Once the tanks are full, any extra water will flow into our brand new pond.

Reason #2: Fish!

We are going to stock the pond with fish so our Forest Guardians can enjoy fresh fish, a great source of protein for the men who spend their days protecting and caring for the forest.

And there is one more reason we are REALLY excited about this pond.

Reason #3: Tapirs!

We are hoping they come!

Our ranger/research station is called Tapir Wasi, which means “Home of the Tapirs.” We chose the name because we found so many tapir footprints around the station.

Now just imagine this: You are sitting at the station after a long day in the jungle. You look out over the pond and suddenly a tapir emerges from the rainforest, walks down to the water, and begins to bathe.

How amazing would THAT be?

The pond is dug. The water is flowing. The fish are coming.

Now we just need the tapirs to get the memo.