Abstracts Category : Other

Improving Conservation Outcomes in a Biodiversity Hotspot:Alternative Agriculture Techniques in Maromizaha Forest,Madagascar

by Karie L Whitman

Home to the worlds only wild populations of lemursand scores of other endemic species, Madagascar is considered oneof the highest priority biodiversity hotspots in the world. Thesustainable management of Maromizaha Forest, a newly protected areain Madagascar, is crucial to the conservation of unique plant andanimal species including 13 species of endangered lemurs. However,rice agriculture is a source of deforestation pressures in thisarea. In efforts to reconcile need for agricultural land withconservation of forested areas, an agricultural method calledSystem of Rice Intensification (SRI) has been promoted on thepremise that it is more sustainable than traditional tavyagricultural practices. Previous studies suggest that theintroduction of SRI is not achieving the intended result ofrelieving deforestation pressures. Household surveys, observationsand key-informant interviews were conducted in the Maromizahacommunity to establish a better understanding of the relationshipsbetween agricultural challenges, livelihoods, and best practicesfor biodiversity conservation in this unique setting. Results showthat SRI is not being widely used in the area despite positiveperception of SRI by those who have adopted it. Various barriers toSRI adoption for farmers in the Maromizaha area include disparityin access to training, labor availability, and availability ofappropriate land. More information is needed to determine theefficacy of SRI in accomplishing intended goals of yield increaseand relief of deforestation pressures in the Maromizaha area, butpromising alternatives to tavy may be found in intermediate riceagriculture methods.Advisors/Committee Members: Stevens, Nancy (Committee Chair).