We conserve the Chiquibul-Maya Mountains for wildlife, people and future generations.

Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization (NGO)

We bring healing to the region through love and care for those in need, and protect it through valuing our diverse cultures and natural resources. We promote and develop healthier living systems by protecting our children, families and communities from environmental health risks

Places

Where We Work

In the midst of the rolling hills, Belize’s mountainous region, bi-national river system, and rich cultural heritage is found FCD actively engaged to conserve some of Belize’s most impressive wonders. Co-managing the largest terrestrial protected area in Belize, namely the Chiquibul National Park and the largest cave system in Central America, the Chiquibul Cave System, is a major responsibility for all of us that comprise FCD. It is also a privilege for us to operate in the Chiquibul Forest which forms part of the largest contiguous block of tropical forest north of the Amazon.

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Chiquibul National Park

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Cooma Cairn (Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve)

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Vaca Forest Reserve

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Chiquibul Cave System

Journey

Our Programs

Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Belize. FCD’s various programs, including environmental education, enforcement and patrols, community outreach, and research and monitoring, work together to achieve this goal.

Environmental Education

FCD's Environmental Education program aims to raise awareness and foster public engagement in the conservation of the Chiquibul ecosystem.

Environmental Education

Chiquibul Park Rangers

Chiquibul Park Rangers serve as the guardians of Belize’s natural and cultural treasures, working tirelessly to protect and preserve the Chiquibul Forest.

Enforcement and Patrols

Research

Biodiversity Research, Inventory and Monitoring (BRIM) Framework provides scientific data for the development of biodiversity management and conservation strategies.

Research

Karst Management Unit

The primary objective of the Karst Management Unit is to collect data on natural, cultural and anthropogenic impacts occurring in the Chiquibul Cave System by exploring, inventorying, monitoring and documenting.

Karst Management Unit

Extension Services

FCD's extension technician works closely with farmers and cattle ranchers near the reserve, teaching them agro-ecological methods for better land use.

Extension Services

Eco-Guards

The term "Eco-guard" has been established by FCD for personnel who monitor and man entry points in forested areas within forest reserves.

Eco-Guards

Bi-National Relations

FCD's Bi-National efforts across borders have ranged from exchange visits, implementation of pilot programs, environmental education, confidence building activities and joint fundraising.

Bi-National Relations

Las Cuevas Research Station

Las Cuevas Research Station (LCRS) is located in the heart of the Chiquibul Forest in the Maya Mountains of Belize, an area recognized as a key biodiversity conservation area.

Las Cuevas Research Station

Eco Tourism

Eco-Quest Expeditions specializes in small group travel, with each group typically consisting of 8 to 15 participants. These groups are accompanied by at least one professional guide who is a highly trained scientist or naturalist.

Eco Travel Tourism

Everyone can make a difference

Get Involved

FCD offers a variety of programs and services in six sustainability areas: education, forestry, watershed management, agricultural development, tourism development and waste management.

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News and Articles

Our Latest Updates

Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) understands the significance of captivating their audience from the first sentence. That’s why we’re excited to share the latest updates on our conservation efforts. From the protection of endangered species to the preservation of natural habitats, FCD is committed to making a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve. Keep reading to learn more about our ongoing projects and how you can get involved.

November 15 marks the celebration of GIS Day, FCD and scientists worldwide join the festivities.

Community questionnaire survey in the Belize River valley as part of the UNDP GEF6 project

FCD is thankful for the donations from BWRC, generated from the Chiquibul Marathon earlier this year.

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Membership

Join Our Community

When you join FCD, you become part of a community dedicated to a conservation movement and in support to FCD’s mission.