This is the first co-management project, of an NGO and the Government of Belize in a forest reserve within Belize. The project, which is on a 935 acres plot, aims at cultivating over 100,000 cacao plants, other annual crops, and cash crops in a sustainable manner through the use of natural fertilisers, Inca-alley farming, and the use of biological agents to control pests. Thirty five (35) farming families are taking part in this initiative, with more than 25,000 cacao plants having been planted as of December 2015. Four (4) shade houses were also built. Six (6) bee keeping hives were constructed and populated.
The primary objective of the project is to enhance the adaptive capacities of a rural community and to alleviate pressure on natural resources from the impacts of Climate Change in Belize.
The project comprises five (5) main activities which are detailed below:
- Activity 1: Reduce the rate of deforestation for agricultural conversion and hence reduce vulnerability of local communities to Climate Change effects with the MGL.
- Activity 2: Arrest the degradation of the water catchment area in Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve.
- Activity 3: Reduce the occurrence of wildfires within Toledo’s rural communities.
- Activity 4: Promote awareness-building of Climate Change and adaptation measures.
- Activity 5: Pursue Sustainable livelihood practices.
