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In 1999, a pilot project was established to examine the feasibility of introducing a community development project to encourage the management of marine resources in Baraulu Village, Roviana Lagoon. Women in this village agreed to the closure of two mangrove and adjacent sea grass areas (Duduli and Rereghana) for shellfish gathering during the odu rane season (September-May). The strain on the shellfish resource was illustrated by anecdotal evidence from the fisher women who harvest the bivalves. The two closed areas were selected due to an observed significant decrease in shell size and abundance. The objective of the monitoring research was two-fold: Part I involved assessing the effects of the spatio-temporal refugia on the two overexploited mangrove-associated bivalve populations, including Anadara granosa (blood cockle) and Polymesoda spp. (mud clam). Part II involved studying the women's involvement in the shellfishery. Aspects of this research include several strategies. Unlike most conservation initiatives that focus exclusively on preservation, this project also works towards the developmental needs of local women. The income that women lose by not selling shells is compensated for by the development of a sewing project. The sewing project is designed to provide local women with income to support local enterprises such as the construction of a permanent facility for women's activities, sending local women to nursing and vocational schools in Honiara, and other initiatives. For an update on this research see: |
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