Mangoky Reserve in good conditions

The visit to the Mangoky Reserve in early May was thoroughly enjoyable: the forest is in good condition after a sufficient rainy season. The protection work bears fruit: no new clearing by fire could be detected, and no illegal felling of larger trees either. We will intensify our protection efforts, and an enlargement of the protected area in the direction of “Akidatsimanatompo” and the employment of another forest warden are being discussed, provided that sponsors can be found for this.

With us at the reserve were two forest scientists, Morena Merkelbach from Koblenz and Tobias Ruhnau from Freiburg. They created a first forest inventory (determination of about 80 tree species) and gave valuable advice for further protection work. We thank Morena and Tobias for their voluntary work and the pleasant cooperation.

In the meantime, a small campsite has been designated directly on the riverbank and is to be completed with simple facilities in the future (outlet toilet, washing facilities, picnic area). Camping right on the edge of the protected area allows for more intensive contact with nature and better working conditions. It was also suggested that a small arboretum be created around the campsite with the most important tree species in the area.