One Day EMR Training Programme - 30th November 2009
One day field training programme on Ecological Mangrove Regeneration was conducted by OMCAR Foundation for the staffs of CReNIEO, Chennai. CReNIEO has recently launched their mangrove restoration programme in Pulicat Lake, Tamil Nadu, funded by Global Nature Fund, Germany.
Ecological Mangrove Regeneration developed by Mr. Robin Lewis, USA is the successful, cost effective method, which is being adopted by several grass root organizations through MAP. OMCAR Foundation has successfully established EMR sites in northern Palk Bay region and is sharing its experience and expertise to other local NGOs.
Staffs of CReNIEO were travelled to MANGREEN Sites in Agni Estuary with Dr. V.Balaji to see the modifications in hydrology, land elevation and suitable species selection to favor the natural regeneration of mangroves. A presentation on EMR techniques and schedule of project activities to be undertaken in Pulicat was explained to the participants in evening at OMCAR office.
At 6pm, OMCAR volunteer meeting was held at OMCAR office, where senior volunteers were honored with memento. Activities of OMCAR Foundation in the last four years were narrated by Dr. Balaji to the volunteers. A documentary on Green Belt by TVE, Srilanka was shown to the participants, which explained the mangrove regeneration effort in various south and Southeast Asian countries. Mangreen Project is the join venture of OMCAR Foundation and DEEPWAVE, Germany funded byLight House Foundation, Germany.
6 Steps to Successful EMR (sourece MAP)
1. Understand the individual species and community ecoloty of the naturally occuring mangrove species at the site, paying particular attention to patterns of reproduction, distribution an dsuccessful seedling establishment.
2. Understand the normal hydrology that controls the distribution and successful establishment and growth of targeted mangrove species;
3. Assess the modifications of the mangrove environment that occurred and that currently prevent natural secondary succession;
4. Select appropriate restoration areas through application of Steps 1-3, above, that are both likely to succeed in rehabilitating a forest ecosystem and are cost effective. Consider the available labor to carry out the projects, including adequate monitoring of their progress toward meeting quantitative goals established prior to restoration. This step includes resolving land ownership/use issues necessary for ensuring long-term access to and conservation of the site;
5. Design the restoration program at appropriate sites selected in Step 4, above, to restore the appropriate hydrology and utilize natural volunteer mangrove recruitment for natural plant establishment;
6. Utilize actual planting of propagules or seedlings only after determining through Steps 1-5, above, that natural recruitment will not provide the quantity of successfully established seedlings, rate of stabilization, or rate of growth as required for project success.