QERC is a fully operable research station equipped with research supplies, lab space, and accommodations.  The field station is situated alongside the Savegre River in a habitiat dominated by oak and bamboo, blanketed with epiphytic life, and dripping with moisture from the seasonal mists and rains. The intense local biodiversity and variety of ecosystems provides a diverse location for both multidisciplinary education and research purposes.

Every other year, Dr. Winslow teaches an astronomy course, which includes an extended field component in Costa Rica.  Using the QERC field station, and other locales throughout Costa Rica, students are able to star gaze between hemispheres that are otherwise unavailable.  Please CONTACT US If you would like more information on Dr. Winslow's astronomy course.

Each summer, Dr. Mike Mooring, Professor of Biology at Point Loma Nazarene University, leads a team of students and researchers in the systematic study of the large mammals inhabiting the cloud forest of the Upper Savegre River watershed.  Dr. Mooring's research continues to produce both amazing photos and data of the mammals of the Savegre Reserve.  

This is a gallery of photos showing the progress of the Vueltas Weather Station.

The Resplendent Quetzal, from which our field station takes its name, holds special signficance for QERC. It was this particular species of the trogan that first led Dr. Leo Finkenbinder to bring his research to the Savegre Valley, and from which our present research initiatives have grown.  The Queztal continues to bring visitors from all over the world hoping to catch a glimpse of this spectacular bird.

Reaching well over 11,000 ft (3400 m) at the highest point, the Talamanca Mountains provide an extensive habitat ideal for both exploration and examination.  Centrally located within these mountains at 7200 ft (2200 m), the QERC field station has access to over 2 miles of hiking trails and 980 acres of private reserve to support field research activities.