Fire at Lorne Ross Park Triggers Political Debate on Conservation Issues
A fire at Lorne Ross Park in Costa Rica affected five hectares of pastureland, prompting a firefighting response and subsequent political debate. The cause is suspected vandalism, and efforts are underway to investigate. This incident has highlighted ongoing challenges regarding conservation and proposed developments in the area, particularly a controversial plan to convert the park into a water park.
A fire broke out at Lorne Ross Park in Pozos de Santa Ana on Wednesday night, engulfing around five hectares of pastureland. The blaze was reported to the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) and was visible from Route 27. The park, which covers 52 hectares on either side of the highway to Caldera, faced an immediate response from Costa Rica’s Fire Department, which deployed seven units to extinguish the flames.
Despite the challenging terrain and strong winds that complicated firefighting efforts, the Fire Department successfully contained the fire by 9:30 p.m. Firefighter Maynard Zumbado mentioned that smoke briefly disrupted traffic on Route 27. The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), alongside SINAC’s Fire Management Department, assisted with the operation, ensuring nearby historic buildings and homes remained unharmed.
On Thursday morning, a team from the Fire Management Program assessed the site. Meryll Arias, ACC-SINAC Director, confirmed that only pastureland was affected, citing preliminary evaluations. She credited firebreak lines established in March as essential in protecting historic structures. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with suspicions of vandalism being considered.
MINAE and SINAC urged the public to engage in preventative measures against forest fires, emphasizing the detrimental effects such incidents can have on ecosystems and climate change. This fire constitutes the 32nd incident in the area since 2020, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding forest management and protection.
This incident has sparked political discourse, with former President Laura Chinchilla criticizing MINAE for alleged negligence. Additionally, Congresswoman Pilar Cisneros faced backlash for her proposal to convert Lorne Ross Park into a “Water Park,” met with opposition from local communities. Deputy Kattia Cambronero reported inadequate resources at the scene and labeled MINAE’s oversight as “indignante.” As investigations unfold, the future of Lorne Ross Park remains uncertain, with significant implications for conservation efforts.
The fire at Lorne Ross Park has reignited discussions on environmental management and conservation practices in Costa Rica. With political responses highlighting concerns over governance and environmental stewardship, the incident underscores the critical need for vigilance in protecting natural areas. As the investigation continues, the future of the park and its intended ecological purpose remains at a crossroads amidst ongoing debates about land use and conservation in the region.
Original Source: ticotimes.net
