:: CONSERVATION

The MFG's Conservation Action pillar encompasses various immediate and long-term activities that aim to mitigate habitat deterioration, augment habitat quality or enhance the survival of an endangered species through a captive breeding or propagation program. For example, the MFG responded to the 2009/2010 political instability that led to an increased number of logging and poaching infractions in all Madagascar's protected areas by increasing the number of people and hours spent patrolling Betampona. We are engaged in forest restorations projects at Parc Ivoloina and in Betampona's Zone of Protection and apply information we have gained from our socioeconomic research to develop  plans that better meet  the specific challenges and needs identified by local villagers.  We have developed a conservation action plan for Ivoloina Zoo's anima collection that integrates with the Word Zoo and Aquarium Associations strategic vision and collaborate with the Missouri Botanical Garden in the propagation of endangered plant species.

The greater bamboo lemur, Prolemur simus, is  Madagascar's most critically endangered lemur species.  The Ivoloina Zoo is an active participant in the P. simus global captive breeding program.

Preventing Illegal Activities in Betampona

The political coups of January 2009 led to significant levels of illegal activity in Madagascar's protected reserves.  The MFG's Conservation Agents had to redirect their work from research to patrolling Betampona. The unprecedented removal of rosewood or lemur poaching seen in some reserves did not occur in Betampona thanks to the agents' dedication.