Description: The project was initiated to safeguard Rapa’s terrestrial ecosystem by controlling invasive species and addressing natural forest degradation. The approach involved implementing biosecurity measures against black rats, safeguarding key forest zones, expanding grazing-excluded areas, and eradicating invasive plants like guava and pine, while also empowering Rapa’s inhabitants to actively preserve their environment. Significant efforts were made, including training 2 employees and 1 volunteer in biosecurity and conducting 3 workshops, leading to enhanced local capabilities in ecosystem conservation. Noteworthy outcomes encompass achieving a rat-free status on the island for 6 months, establishing a crisis committee for rapid responses, outlining a contingency plan, identifying nine vital forest areas, fencing 0.87 hectares against grazers, removing 80% of invasive plants, and refurbishing a plant nursery for forest restoration. These combined actions aimed to reverse forest deterioration and reinforce sustainable conservation practices for Rapa’s terrestrial ecosystem.
Duration: 12 months
