~ by Carlos León
A sunny morning was the gorgeous setting of a very special celebration that took place in the community of Ojochal, in Costa Ballena.
That day, the Ecological Blue Flag was officially raised at the entrance of the town which proudly distinguishes it.
To be awarded such an honor, the community put together a local committee. Its coordinator Lucy Tessier, invited local citizens, as well as representatives of public institutions. Also, the members of the Regional Osa County Department of Health were asked to join this event, since their assistance had an invaluable positive impact on the local committee’s efforts to put into practice the rigorous plan that this program demands.

Blue Ecologic Flag for Ojochal
Our local municipal employees were also part of this celebration, and they congratulated and showed their admiration to the members of our community and leaders.
The Blue Flag program is an interinstitutional initiative of the Costa Rican government, which awards this recognition to regions or towns where local people make extra special efforts to ensure the conservation and sustainable development with their natural resources.

Blue Ecologic Flag for Ojochal
Such a distinction is given once a year when volunteers work in activities carried out to confront climate change, and also to improve the sanitary conditions of the community. The purpose is for the Ecological Blue Flag to become an incentive to continue getting better at facing these challenges. That is why local community organizations could lose the Blue Flag if they do not continue doing their best to keep their high standards.
So, when you are driving on the Pacífica Fernández Road, and you see a simple but very symbolic blue flag at the entrance of Ojochal, you can be sure that is the spirit that moves most of its citizens: