2009 Rain Forest Rescue Report
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Since 1992 this important program has been saving precious tropical forests that modify climate and reduce global warming, serve as a habitat for wildlife ranging from endangered species to the songbirds that visit us each summer, and provide livelihoods for indigenous people.
In 2009 Arbor Day Foundation again partnered with The Nature Conservancy and local conservation organizations to help preserve rain forests, mostly in Central America. The focus has been on the amazing 13 million acre Maya Forest—the largest remaining acreage of tropical rain forest outside of the Amazon Basin. The strategy: provide tools for preserve management, but also help local people help themselves. In this way, people in the area can continue to embrace their centuries-old tradition of living on the land but leaving little impact. Designated protected areas will only survive intact if residents of nearby communities can feed their families and enjoy a better standard of living without the need for short-term exploitation of forest resources. Helping local people adopt sustainable, small-scale agriculture, home industries, careful planning and on-site preserve management are the keys to preserving Central America’s rain forests. Click below to learn more about last year’s progress.
Next: Sustainable Livelihoods Can Save the Maya Forest in Mexico
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