Prospects

An evaluation of the achievements and above all, impacts of the Biodiversity Program shows positive development towards a net benefit for the Fort-Dauphin environment. The outcome of several years of effort, in collaboration with international researchers and neighboring communities, are tangible today: the ecological quality of the Mandena conservation zone has clearly improved (end to wood-cutting, regeneration of undergrowth) and the largest plant nursery in Madagascar has been created at the Mandena Ecological Research Center. The Conservation sites on Mandena, Sainte Luce and Petriky contain several endemic species which would have been extinct in the scraps of surrounding forest. Also, the reforestation campaigns, which started in 2001 have planted around 1000 hectares of fast-growing species (maturing in 6 to 10 years). These large-scale plantations will help meet the forecast increased demand for wood. A Management Board will be responsible for their sustainable management via a Dina.

In addition, research was undertaken in order to find alternatives to the use of endangered natural resources. Currently solutions have been found, and adopted by users, for Mahampy (a reed growing in the marshes and used by women to make craft products) and Vahipiky (a creeper used by fishermen to make lobster pots). A marsh was restored by Rio Tinto QMM at the Ecological Research center in collaboration with village women, and the quality and quantity of Mahampy which grew there was way beyond their expectations. For Vahipiky, bamboo was used instead and the fishermen included in the research are also satisfied with the outcome. Today, Rio Tinto QMM has a unique, impressive database on biodiversity in the Region. This base includes, inter alia, studies and research on ecological restoration, endemic species, animal translocation, alternative plants, plant nursery techniques, setting up and running a Management Board, a Dina and related income-generating activities.

In order to develop this research, a book in monograph form has been published in 2007 on matters related to natural resources and biodiversity of littoral ecosystems. It includes all the scientific and technical work carried out by Rio Tinto QMM, its collaborators and students for over 15 years. The fruit of long years of preparation, this book will be an important reference tool for knowledge and future research on biodiversity in this part of the island.

Entitled Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation of Littoral Ecosystems in the Region of Tolagnaro (Fort Dauphin) in south eastern Madagascar, the book is published by the Smithsonian Institution. The book draws upon the work of professionals from universities, biodiversity partner organisations, the Malagasy Government, Rio Tinto and other scientific institutions. More than 70 authors contributed to the book, which provides a comprehensive record of the scientific investigation on biodiversity, social aspects and conservation conducted in this part of Madagascar.