Taveuni has the highest rate of deforestation in Fiji .The fact is alarming and demands attention. The reason for deforestation is mainly due to unsustainable dalo production. The result is a constant search for “new land”. This has led increasingly to the clearing of extensive areas of land and even situations where farming on steep slopes is common. Deforestation is almost too common and continues to increase each year at an alarming rate. In this aspect, the Project will also support community initiatives in targeted areas where TTT and the Ministry of Agriculture are effectively working with communities. The Project will also raise awareness on forest biodiversity and conservation activities that the government of Fiji (under the FIJI NBSAP) is undertaking to help establish and set up Protected Forest Areas.
n summary, the problems/issues that will be addressed by the project include;
•Decreasing soil fertility and quality in target areas, and Taveuni in general
•Increasing rate of deforestation on Taveuni in general
•Deterioration of forest and water catchment areas presenting problems eg. poor drinkable water impacting local communities and livelihoods – planting of forest and fruit trees in relevant areas