Mangrove

Suriname has one of the most pristine mangrove forests in the world. Mangrove forests are among the most valuable coastal ecosystems in the world. Unfortunately, they are being destroyed at an alarming rate. Globally, 50% of the mangrove forests disappeared in the past five decades. If current trends continue, the remaining mangroves could disappear within the next 100 years.

In recent years it has become increasingly clear that mangrove forests are essential for a healthy environment. These forests are important for:

1. Coastal protection
2. Shelter and food for many animals
3. Purifying the water
4. Their medicinal value
5. Their aesthetic value
6. Coastal communities

Our team helps the local communities to collect mangrove data using simple observations used in various disciplines. Everyone needs to take note of the health of our environment. Healthy people and healthy animals depend on a healthy environment.

Purpose: Determine the health of the mangroves in a specific location.

How: Through simple observations of bio-indicators such as birds, crabs and vegetation (trees and roots).

We offer a mangrove training for the community in which we discuss the following topics:

• What are mangroves
• The importance of mangroves
• The threats to mangrove forests
• What does a healthy mangrove ecosystem look like
• Recognizing the different types of mangrove trees in Suriname
• Collecting information to determine how healthy a certain mangrove area is compared to another area.