The initial purchase was 15 acres. The project grew to include children and adults from around the world. Now, the Children's Rain Forest has grown to 43,000 acres, and an environmental education facility has recently been completed. The Children's Rain Forest is managed by the Monteverde Conservation League. This organization has worked hard to gain the cooperation of the local community.
Staff provide local educational programs and participate in community meetings.
Because the League believes the neighbors of the forest are the best protectors, programs are aimed at supporting local farmers and loggers so they don't lose their homes and income. Inspired by the Conservation League, Friends of Opal Creek works to make the Preserve a resource for the local community and encourages local involvement in ecosystem management. Sustainable and economically productive uses of the forest include selective logging of second-growth forests, mushroom and beargrass harvesting, fishing and tourism.