About us

Who Are We?

We are a non-profit Organization established and based in the beautiful region of Manu, Peru. Since our inception in 2003, we have been passionately dedicated to the preservation of the Manu Biosphere Reserve and the promotion of sustainable development in its communities.

At Crees Foundation for Manu, we carry out our core activities through three distinct programs that constitute our pillars of action: Research, Education, and Communities. These pillars not only define our work but also reflect our comprehensive commitment to sustainable development in the Manu Biosphere Reserve.

We recognize that synergy among research, community action, and education is essential to achieving our conservation and sustainable development goals in the Manu Biosphere Reserve.

Acquisition of Mascoitania and Establishment of Crees Foundation

In this year, we embarked on our journey with the acquisition of Mascoitania and the establishment of Crees Foundation, laying the foundation for our commitment to conservation and sustainable development in the Manu Biosphere Reserve.

Intercultural Encounter - Canadian and Peruvian Native Inhabitants

During this period, we facilitated an intercultural encounter between Canadian and Peruvian native inhabitants, fostering the exchange of knowledge and its connection to the environment.

Commencement of Long-Term Biodiversity Monitoring Project

Simultaneously, we launched the long-term biodiversity monitoring project, solidifying our dedication to preserving the rich biodiversity of the region.

Peruvian Innovation - Sale of Carbon Offset Bonds to the University of Oxford

In the same year, we achieved a milestone by selling the first carbon offset bonds generated by our agroforestry plots to the prestigious University of Oxford, showcasing Peruvian innovation in sustainability.

Manu Sustainable Project - Funding through the Darwin Initiative

The year 2014 marks the initiation of the Manu Sustainable Project, funded by the Darwin Initiative of the British government, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability in the Manu region.

Tree Top Manu - Commencement of Canopy Observation Project

In this phase, we launched the Tree Top Manu project, focused on the observation and preservation of the forest canopy through camera traps, expanding our contribution to biodiversity and understanding of local ecosystems.

Discovery of Amaerega shihuemoy - New Species of Frog

We celebrate the discovery of Amaerega shihuemoy, a new frog species for science, highlighting our dedication to exploration and wildlife conservation.

Environmental Education Strategy - Manu National Park

In this year, we concentrated on developing the environmental education strategy for Manu National Park, solidifying our commitment to awareness and preservation through education.

Agroforestry during the Pandemic - Integration into "Aprendo en Casa"

During the pandemic, we shared our agroforestry experience as an integral part of the "Aprendo en Casa" distance education strategy, adapting to circumstances to continue contributing to knowledge.

Establishment of Crees Foundation for Manu - Reboot

Finally, in 2022, we usher in a new chapter with the establishment of the Crees Foundation for Manu, reflecting our evolution and reaffirming our continuous commitment to the Manu region.

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2022

Where do We Work?

THE MANU BIOSPHERE RESERVE

Located in the southeastern part of Peru, between the regions of Cusco and Madre de Dios, the Manu Biosphere Reserve spans an impressive extension of 2 438 956 hectares. It stretches from the majestic heights of the Andes Mountains to the immersion in the lush Amazon Rainforest. At the heart of this vastness lies the Manu National Park, established in 1973 by the Peruvian government.

The Manu Biosphere Reserve operates under an innovative model of participatory management, of which we are part as members of the management committee. This approach not only aims to preserve biodiversity comprehensively but also seeks to promote tangible social benefits for local communities. The area is structured into a buffer zone and a transition zone, strategically designed to balance conservation with the sustainable development needs of the surrounding populations.

MANU LEARNING CENTRE

In the Heart of the Manu Biosphere Reserve, specifically in the buffer zone of Manu National Park, stands our pride: The Manu Learning Centre (MLC). This space, after decades of dedication to conservation, is a living testament to the attainability of recovery and sustainability. It is a vibrant witness to the resilience of the naturally regenerating forest, a unique ecosystem that once faced challenges and has flourished again thanks to dedicated efforts. Every corner of these 643 hectares serves as a reminder of nature’s capacity to heal when given proper respect and care.

The MLC houses one of the largest and longest-running biodiversity studies in the Amazon. Although scientific data on its biodiversity have been collected since 2003, we have been extensively conducting the most ambitious and long-term biodiversity monitoring since 2011, briefly interrupted only by the pandemic. This wealth of information not only contributes to the global understanding of Amazonian biodiversity but also guides our conservation and education initiatives.

Allies

The success of our work is largely attributed to our collaborators, whose daily commitment and professionalism are essential in achieving our goals.

Nevertheless, we acknowledge that many of our actions are made possible through close collaboration and the invaluable support of our allies, partners, and donors: