SUCCESS STORIES

If you want to protect the rainforest, you’ll need a good map. Over the past 12 years, landowners, conservationists, teachers, zoos, and scientists have worked to establish Papua New Guinea’s first conservation area.

The official recognition of the YUS Conservation Area in 2009 will help protect 180,000 acres of forest and the rare species living there. In particular, the forest is critical habitat for the endangered Matschies tree kangaroos.

Science Uncovers Conservation Opportunities

What began as a scientific research project to study the tree kangaroo expanded to protect its habitat with the support of the local community.

Funding from the Conservation, Food, and Health Foundation and many other donors has helped the Woodland Park Zoo train local conservation leaders and map the Huon Peninsula in Papua New Guinea.

The maps highlight more than hunting grounds, natural resources, and critical habitat. Maps have been a key part of the cultural, political and management framework needed to balance the interests of the l10,000 villagers in the area with a healthy ecosystem.

Woodland Park Zoo’s Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program supported from Conservation International and National Geographic, has worked with Papua New Guinea landowners and the government for more than 12 years to establish the conservation area.

A Healthy Community Preserves Critical Habitat

The project is noteworthy because the owners of the property are indigenous people who have agreed to manage their land as a conservation area. Villagers have committed to prohibit hunting and development such as logging and mining in the conservation area.

Woodland Park Zoo’s Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program will continue to work with community leaders to increase access to education and improve health in the villages.

The program includes scientific training, teacher workshops, a village library program, and health care outreach programs.

The program plans to help develop a community organization that will manage the conservation area as well as economic development projects that benefit villagers…and some very happy tree kangaroos.

Project Name: Woodland Park Zoo Tree Conservation Program
Grantee: Woodland Park Zoo
Project Location: Papua New Guinea
Grantmaker: Conservation, Food, and Health Foundation

For more Information Contact:
Prentice Zinn, Conservation, Food & Health Foundation c/o GMA Foundations, 617-391-3091;
Lisa Dabek, Director of Conservation, Woodland Park Zoo 206-548-2500