Scientific and Eco-Tourism in the Rain Forests of Crater Mountain, Papua New Guinea

by Research and Conservation Foundation of PNG

Project Overview

The enormous Crater Mountain Wildlife Management Area (CMWMA) covers 2600 square kilometers, an area about the size of the state of Rhode Island. The site spans a wide range of elevations (150 - 2100 meters) that contains a full range of the biotic diversity of PNG. Primary forest blankets the lower elevations, while alpine scrub and grasslands are found at higher ones. The site contains over 220 bird species, 49 of which are endemic, and 84 mammal species, 15 of which are endemic to PNG. Although the CMWMA currently has a low population density, a number of threats are looming in the near future including industrial logging, mining, and oil drilling.

To counter these threats, the project is establishing locally-owned and operated research and ecotourism enterprises in the CMWMA. These innovative community owned and operated enterprises are establishing support structures for natural and social scientists interested in studying the natural ecosystems and cultural diversity in the CMWMA. These enterprises provide lodging and guide services to domestic and international visitors interested in experiencing the natural wonders of the CMWMA.

The project team members are working with community members to develop biological and socioeconomic monitoring systems. The team is also working with landowners to develop a land-use management plan which provides for biodiversity conservation and enterprise sustainability. Finally, they hope to demonstrate to government officials and other land-owners in PNG that community managed lands can generate profits in a sustainable fashion.

	Current Accomplishments
Successes and Challenges
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