Awacachi Biological Corridor Reforestation
BACKGROUND
The mission of the project is to propagate native trees species along the Awacachi biological corridor as well as the agroforestry areas in the buffer zone. The project to conserve and restore in the corridor was established in 2000 and spans 10,000 hectares. The Awacachi Corridor is a key strategic site which along with adjoining areas, reinforces the conservation of humid tropical forest of the Chocó biogeographic region.
GOALS & approach
The Global Trees Campaign (part of Fauna and Flora International) partnered with the Fundacion Sirua to reforest 40 ha of the corridor. Planting began in February of 2009 when 30 hectares were reforested with 320-360 trees per hectare, and an additional 53 hectares were planted in the buffer zone. Local schools in the communities of San Lorenzo, San Francisco, and Durango have maintained nurseries that hold an average of 300-400 seedlings each. In 2010 and additional reforesting of 15 ha was conducted along with 2 workshops for adult inland 16 workshops for schoolchildren on tree propagation and planting.
Reported Takeaways
FFI’s core work in Awacachi is to maintain and improve biodiversity through reforestation, biodiversity monitoring and conservation enforcement by locally trained rangers selected from neighboring communities. The project has also reduced human pressures on land use by addressing issues of land tenure and promoting biodiversity-friendly products such as native bamboo and cacao. Other benefits have included promotion of environmental education programs and strengthens the Sirua Foundation’s institutional capacity.
Reference:
“Establishment, Protection and Consolidation of the Awacachi Corridor | Fauna & Flora International.” n.d. Accessed December 27, 2019.
Affiliation:
- Global Trees Campaign - partnership between Flora and Fauna International and the Botanic Gardens Conservation International