15 October 2012
SPREP Trains Tongans in Mangrove Surveying Techniques
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The Vava'u Mangrove Survey and associated training utilized Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Geographical Positioning Systems (GIS) and the Pacific Mangrove Monitoring Manual.

According to SPREP, the Survey found the Vava'u mangroves to be in generally good condition.

It also established permanent monitoring points to enable assessment and monitoring of mangrove conditions over time.

SPREP12 October 2012: A survey by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) has found the Vava’u Mangrove to be in generally good condition, based on use of the Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Geographical Positioning Systems (GIS) and the Pacific Mangrove Monitoring Manual.

The survey was conducted in partnership with the Mangrove Ecosystems for Climate Change Adaptation and Livelihoods (MESCAL) and the Tongan Ministry of Lands Environment Climate Change and Natural Resources.

In addition to the survey, SPREP and partners also provided training in mangrove surveillance. The project also established permanent monitoring points to enable assessment and monitoring of mangrove conditions over time.

SPREP notes that mangroves are vital to island ecosystems as they provide habitats for fish and crabs, protect coastlines, and filter water. Mangroves are also a major component of ecosystem-based adaptation to climate change. [SPREP Press Release]