Is your winter in need of a break in the tropics — a trip with a focus, a way to contribute and learn, and an opportunity to change your perspective? Want a life-changing experience with like-minded people in a spectacular natural and cultural environment?

See Below

* Tropical Trailwork Adventure Costa Rica

December 1-8, 2013
US$965 includes:

* Instruction, tools, and materials

* In-country transportation

* Dorm lodging (upgrades possible)

* Three delicious meals a day

* Enjoyment of Rancho Mastatal trails, waterfalls, and reserve

Learn about:
* Trail siting & design
* Tools for trailwork, & their safe & effective use
* Grade, slope, and drainage
* Bridges, steps, and other trail structures
* Nature-sensitive trail building and maintenance
* Design features for views, and tree, plant, and animal observation

* Ongoing use and care of forest trails

 

 

 

 

* Renewable Energy for the Developing World-Hands-On

March 22 – 30, 2014

US $1,235 includes:

* Instruction, tools, and materials

* In-country transportation

* Dorm lodging (upgrades possible)

* Three delicious meals a day
* Enjoyment of Rancho Mastatal trails, waterfalls, and reserve

 

This workshop provides an introduction to all the major renewable energy technologies with a focus on designing and installing small, rural systems. We’ll get our hands dirty — the majority of the workshop is hands-on field work, and it also includes classroom sessions and the following projects: 1) building and using solar ovens, 2) a solar hot water or solar-electric system, and 3) installing a methane biodigestor. This is an experiential program, with a non-technical, overview focus. These hands-on installations give participants the opportunity to interact with local members of the community, experience both the challenges and satisfaction of working within the developing world, and the opportunity to install systems that can dramatically improve the living conditions of the local people.

Workshop Topics include:
*       Solar Electricity for Rural Development
*       Wind Electricity
*       Micro-Hydro Electricity
*       Solar Hot Water
*       Solar Cooking and Food Drying (with Sol Verde, a women’s cooperative)
*       Technology Transfer and System Maintenance
*       Methane Biogas Digesters (with Dr. Richard Taylor of Earth University)
*       Social & Cultural Issues of Working in the Developing World
*       Hands-On Installations in the Local Community

 

 

 

 

Rancho Mastatal

In addition, Rancho Mastatal and the community of Mastatal have fine examples of:
* Sustainable agriculture, forestry, and living
* Small renewable energy systems
* Micro-enterprise and ecotourism
* Composting and biodigester toilet and
wastewater management systems
* Nature study and awareness
* Natural building
* Medicinal plants & indigenous skills

 

 

For more information, contact  e-mail <ian@renewablereality.net>.