The Tropical Biology Association (TBA), in collaboration with the Institute of Nature and Environmental Conservation (INEC) Ghana, has initiated a practical restoration training program focusing on Ghana’s endangered tree species for conservation practitioners and managers.
Funded by the Fondation Franklinia, the 10-day training program aims to empower participants to actively engage in conserving threatened tree species and restoring their habitats. Approximately 20 participants, involved in mangrove restoration, natural regeneration, and other forest reestablishment efforts across the country, are participating in the training.
The program covers various topics including the planning and impacts of restoration projects, understanding the ecological links between restoration and forest ecosystems for long-term conservation outcomes, different restoration approaches, and when to apply them. Additionally, participants will learn about monitoring impacts and communicating the importance of conserving Ghana’s threatened tree species.
Dr. Rosie Trevelyan, Director of TBA, highlighted the critical importance of forests in sustaining stable climates, clean water, and biodiversity. She emphasized the role of education in conservation efforts and expressed optimism that the trained conservationists could contribute significantly to Ghana’s efforts in conserving threatened tree species.
Mr. David Kwarteng, Director of INEC-Ghana, underscored the urgency of conserving Ghana’s native tree species, of which over 10 percent are threatened. He explained that the training program was born out of the need to address the lack of capacity in restoring threatened trees identified in the threatened tree conservation action plan funded by Fondation Franklinia.
Participants will have the opportunity to visit various sites including the Bobiri Forest, INEC’s restoration sites, and KNUST Botanical Gardens to learn about different restoration approaches and silvicultural practices.
The training program represents a crucial step towards building the capacity of conservation practitioners and managers in Ghana to effectively conserve and restore the country’s invaluable tree species and their ecosystems.
