The entire southeast of Nicaragua and parts of neighbouring Costa Rica are presently being organized according to an ambitious regional development scheme called Si-a-Paz (Yes-to-Peace). Included are areas from high to low management intensity, such as sustainable agricultural and ranching developments, forest restoration and buffer zones, cultural monuments, as well as biological and wildlife reserves. Integrated in this grand scheme is the isolated subsistence community of New Greytown (San Juan del Norte), access point to a stunning variety of unique habitats, including riverine, estuarine, marine, coastal lowland, and upland environments, which are virtually intact at this time. A research station is planned for this growing community, with the intent to not only serve the exploration of the nearby Rio Indio-Maiz Biological Reserve, but also to contribute lo the economic development of the community itself, by assuring scientifically sound resource management input, diversification of the local economy and environmental education of the public. This paper focuses on the history of this project, and the interaction of governmental and non-governmental organizations in making it happen.