Discover the magic of sustainable forestry, logging, woodlot management, milling, and native reforestation in sunny Costa Rica! Join the upcoming 4-day course at Raices del Sol’s stunning private wildlife refuge for an intense learning experience filled with discovery and adventure. Read on to learn more about the program →

Tall trees Costa RicaMaster the art of sustainable forestry

For the first time, Raices del Sol offers a unique workshop which covers everything-forestry in 4 intense days! You’ll learn to master the fascinating world of sustainable forestry, profitable woodlot management, and acquire the real-life skills for a well rounded homestead.

The forestry workshop takes place right here at RDS, in the most stunning private wildlife refuge in sunny Costa Rica. There will be plenty of explorations in the virgin jungle, magical swims in idyllic waterfalls, and immersion in the farm life at Raices del Sol.

Here’s some of what you’ll experience during the workshop:

  • Learn to recognize and analyze tree species and understand their impact on the land
  • Know when to plant and when to harvest
  • Acquire the skill to design and maintain a sustainable and profitable forest
  • Select appropriate trees for harvest (including forest thinning)
  • Learn and practice how to safely fell trees and limb them
  • Turn logs into usable timber – DIY milling!
  • Master the tools of the trade: top-of-the-line portable sawmill, large chainsaw, Alaskan sawmill, traditional axes, and more
  • Create a world of opportunities in your forest for sustainable profitability and long-term, multi-sided wealth

Register online!

Why sustainable forestry?

Any farm or homestead which aims for independence, sustainability, and resilience outside of the money cycle needs to include forestry as a crucially essential part of their operation.

No matter where you live in the world, if you have chosen to live close to nature and off of the land, you will need to master the many crafts of sustainable forestry.

  • A healthy and well managed woodlot will provide wood for construction, heating, cooking, and composting.
  • Trees will increase the fertility of the soil through innumerable processes including nitrogen fixing, soil retention and erosion prevention, moisture retention, swamp drainage, creation of habitats for helpful insects, and so much more.
  • Trees will clean your air through carbon fixation and provide many ecosystems for thriving micro-environments from the ground up.
  • Sustainable forestry creates long-lasting, multi-sided, and well integrated benefits for yourself and your environment.

Why do it yourself?

We believe that part of an aim to live a responsible, independent, and empowered life must include doing your own forestry.

Any community, homestead, farm, or organization that strives for harmony and sustainability will get innumerable benefits from doing their own forestry while at the same time fostering a well-rounded and positive impact.

  • Whether it’s for natural building or any other purpose, you won’t have to purchase wood in any quantity. You’ll be a step further from the never-ending money cycle and you also won’t support wood-selling businesses (which can seldom be sustainable) and transportation networks.
  • You’ll make your own decisions. If it comes down to felling trees, you’ll approach the question with integrity, weighing all aspects. And you’ll get many collateral benefits from your work.
  • You’ll remain motivated to planting many (adequate) trees as you continuously reap the benefit of your work.

rio negro costa ricaCome Live Unique Experiences and Get Transformed

In addition to full-on hands-on education, the forestry workshop includes organized classes and field trips. While at RDS, participants are exposed to a wide variety of fields such as alternative natural building, integrative farming, martial arts, yoga, natural horsemanship, wildlife preservation, trail maintenance, and so much more! You’ll also interact with RDS staff of local Costa Ricans daily with plenty of opportunities to brush up your Spanish.

Come live truly unique experiences and get real, valuable skill-sets that are today in high demand worldwide.

Who are you?

You’re passionate about sustainable forestry and self-empowerment. You feel highly motivated and excited. You’re clear on what it is you’re looking for and in which direction you’re headed.

Families welcome! RDS is a kid-awesome place and families are welcome.

Fill out your registration form today. Availability is on a first-come basis and space is limited. We look forward to hearing from you!

Important details

The program is suitable to anyone who’s dedicated and motivated. Most of the time is spent outdoors. Accommodations are clean, beautiful and comfortable but don’t have some of the modern amenities that are common in cities.

How much does it cost

  • Tuition: $490. All inclusive for 4 days and 5 nights. Register today!
  • Incredible food and lodging.
  • Transportation to RDS isn’t included.

More info

Register now