Optimización del aprovechamiento e industrialización de la madera de balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) en plantaciones de pequeños y medianos productores de la Región Huetar Caribe.

This project aims to optimize the harvesting and processing of balsa wood (Ochroma pyramidale) in plantations owned by small and medium-sized producers in the Huetar Caribe Region. Faced with a production emergency recognized by institutions such as MINAE, ONF, and TEC, stemming from the risk of plantation abandonment due to a lack of technical capacity, the project proposes developing a comprehensive technological package based on applied trials of harvesting methods, sawing patterns, and solar drying protocols. Extraction alternatives (water buffalo, tractor and winch, portable winch) will be evaluated through time and motion studies, operating costs, and soil compaction. Simultaneously, controlled sawing trials will be conducted at an industrial plant, adjusting cutting patterns according to variety (red/white balsa) and diameter category, and solar drying profiles will be tested at three commercial thicknesses. The results will allow for the identification of the most efficient system in technical, economic, and environmental terms. The knowledge generated will be systematized into operational protocols, a technical manual with ISBN TEC, infographics, short videos, and training sessions for more than 20 producers. In addition, student training will be integrated through Final Graduation Projects (TFG), academic tours with the Forest Harvesting I and Forest Product Manufacturing courses, and active participation of special student assistants. The proposal aligns with the National Development Plan 2023–2026, the National Forestry Policy, and SDGs 9 (industry, innovation), 12 (responsible production), 13 (climate action), and 15 (life on land). It contributes to strengthening the forestry value chain, reducing post-harvest losses, generating value-added products (glued blocks, laminated and glued panels of balsa wood and model-grade balsa), and promoting a sustainable reactivation of the forestry sector in the Caribbean region.

Definir un paquete tecnológico para optimizar la cosecha e industrialización de la madera de balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) proveniente de plantaciones de pequeños y medianos productores de la Región Huetar Caribe, orientado al desarrollo de productos de valor agregado con potencial de exportación.

1. Gestión del cultivo de árboles para la restauración, conservación y producción de madera y servicios ecosistémicos
2. Tecnología de la madera, biomateriales, biomasa y dendroenergía