BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Kogala Tribal Rangers, with Solomon Islands Rangers Association support, recently carried out a two-day comprehensive baseline biodiversity assessment in the Kogala Tribe Forest Conservation area in Makaruka Village, Guadalcanal Province.
This is a landmark effort to protect biodiversity and enhance conservation strategies in, Kogala Tribe Forest Conservation area.
The initiative, conducted on 28 to 31 May in collaboration with local community members and KTFCA Rangers, aims to build the capacity of local rangers and assess the health of the forest’s ecosystem and document key species residing in the area.
Mr. Justine Ron, a project coordinator of Kogala Tribe Forest Conservation Association KTFCA said that the assessment involved meticulous data collection on flora and fauna, including endemic and threatened species.
He said rangers used scientific methods such as field surveys, cameras, mist net traps for birds and bats and community consultations to gather valuable insights on biodiversity patterns.
He said the residents participated in the study; sharing traditional ecological knowledge that has been passed down for generations.
“The Kogala Tribe has always been deeply connected to this land,” said Albert Kwatelae, a representative from the Solomon Islands Rangers Association.
“This assessment not only reinforces the importance of conservation but also integrates indigenous wisdom and traditional knowledge with modern scientific ecological research methods.”
Mr Ron said the preliminary findings showed that the forest remains a crucial habitat for several species, including rare and endemic birds of Guadalcanal, such as the Guadalcanal Dwarf Kingfisher, amphibians like tree frogs (Litoria species), freshwater shrimps and traditional medicinal plants.
He said the assessment will inform future conservation efforts and strengthen community-led environmental protection initiatives.
He said that residents of Makaruka Village have expressed their support for continued collaboration with the rangers; emphasising the need for sustainable practices that safeguard their natural heritage.
He said the Solomon Islands Rangers Association plans to publish a detailed report of their findings and work closely with stakeholders to develop long-term conservation strategies and in-depth research, as there is limited information and research around this part of Guadalcanal Province.
Mr Ron said there is more to be described and known to the general public and resource owners in Kogala & Makaruka.
“As global environmental challenges continue to mount, efforts like these highlight the essential role of indigenous communities in preserving biodiversity. The baseline biodiversity assessment in the KTFCA stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in safeguarding Solomon Islands’ unique ecosystems for future generations.
“We anticipate more work to be done in the future. Acknowledgement to the Global Green Fund, donor partners and stakeholders for making this work successful,” said Ron.
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