Over the last several days, Velondriake committee members welcomed more than twenty guests from Blue Ventures’ second site in Belo-sur-mer, located north of Andavadoaka. The group consisted of members of several local communities, representatives of an environmental group and Madagascar National Parks staff, all here to learn about the successes of Velondriake. The trip involved a visit and discussions with community members about successes and challenges with permanent and temporary mangrove reserves, as well as a visit to the permanent fish reserve and algae farm near Andavadoaka.
These field trips and discussions were inspiring for the visitors, who are eager to establish temporary mangrove reserves near Belo-sur-mer. Mangrove forests serve as important nurseries for many fish species and provide wood for construction, but often suffer from overuse.
