Mangrove Rehabilitation – Thailand

The Mangrove Rehabilitation Project managed by partner Naucrates continues the rehabilitation of the Mangrove forest in Phra Thong Island while preserving and enhancing the native biodiversity of the mangrove ecosystem and involving the local people. The area where this project takes place was hard hit by the tsunami of 2004 which dramactically lowered the biodiversity of the mangrove forest.

Villagers learn the importance of the mangrove ecosystem from an ecological point of view by attending training sessions which include theory, practical sections, mangrove rehabilitation practices and information about how to become a tour guide. An educational path is being built through the mangrove forest near the village with educational panels to help villagers during their guided tours. Using the path and interaction with various visiting groups the project will start to show the local villagers what is possible on an ecotourism front, opportunities and challenges.

This project started in 2005 and is expected to continue into 2010 where longterm support is needed for this area.