The property is just north of the village of Ranohira — this area is growing every year in size. Several small streams cross the property, making it the perfect future habit for lemurs and bird species such as kingfishers.
Once 75% covered by trees, that number has alarmingly reduced to just 15%. In the southwest of Isalo, forests have disappeared almost entirely. Due to erosion and a severe lack of rainfall, the area is slowly turning to desert. To help, the land was purchased by Soa Zara in an attempt to reforest and restore natural wildlife habitats.
Dry forests from the south meet the wet forests from the east meaning there’s a multitude of native tree species to use. Due to degraded soil conditions, only dry forest trees are planted to start. Once the forest grows and the soil regenerates, the wet forest trees can easily be reintroduced to thrive in the region.
The project adopts a long-term approach to rebuilding the forest ecosystem, starting with dry forest species to regenerate the soil. Once the forest is re-established, wet forest trees will be reintroduced to restore the region's full biodiversity. Reforestation activities also aim to revive local wildlife, including lemurs, which have been largely absent from the area due to deforestation.
Reforesting in a region that is the source of many rivers helps prevent erosion and fertile soils being washed away into the sea which can harm coral reefs. Forests improve the microclimate and allow permanent water to return to rivers and streams. This helps speed the return of animals that disappeared over the last 10-15 years.
Farmer’s family nutrition improves via food security and improves their standard of living. Engaged community members report enhanced harmony and cohesiveness between different communities as everyone can discuss issues that affect them in society. A deliberate effort is also made to build women’s knowledge and skills to improve gender equality.
