A Ridge to Reef Approach to Mangrove Conservation with Baie Ste. Anne Eco-School

As part of the GOS-GEF-UNDP Ridge to Reef Project being implemented by the SPGA and other local partners, supported by the Program Development and Coordination Section within the Ministry of Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment, biannual activities tabled include the ongoing maintenance of mangrove ecosystems and beach clean-up efforts at Cap-Ternay and on Curieuse Island.

In celebration of World Mangroves Day on 26th July, SPGA hosted a mangrove conservation awareness activity on Curieuse island, which involved an educational session, including mangrove identification, a clean-up and mangrove planting for 10 awardees from the Baie St. Anne Praslin Eco-School Club.

The day commenced with the clean-up, during which the team collected only 5 kilograms of litter. The reduction in debris compared to the previous mangrove clean-ups indicates a decrease in runoff-related waste on the island. Secondly, the team established 30 plots within a targeted area in the mangrove forest that required rehabilitation in an effort to combat the impacts of increased sand deposition that has resulted in the loss of several mangrove plants in recent years.

Two species were chosen from SPGA’s nursery based on their higher resilience: 15 Red Mangrove (Mangliye Rouz, Rhizophora mucronata) and 15 Oriental Mangrove (Mangliye Lat, Bruguiera gymnorhiza). In pursuit of effective restoration, the mangroves were planted in a linear arrangement, with each plant spaced one meter apart. Having already spent some time in the nursery, these plants were already at the seedling stage, increasing the likelihood of their long-term success.

Furthermore, the children were placed into pairs and provided with mangrove identification slates, allowing them to learn about the distinguishing characteristics that aid in identifying each mangrove species. The children traversed along the longest boardwalk in Seychelles, where they learnt about the ecosystem’s importance and SPGA’s mangrove rehabilitation efforts. Additionally, they had the opportunity to expand their knowledge in tortoise conservation by interacting with the free-roaming tortoises on Curieuse Island and learning how they, as individuals, can contribute to wildlife conservation. Following an engaging and educational day, the children received certificates of achievement in recognition of their diligent efforts and valuable contributions to SPGA’s mangrove conservation initiatives.