2010 International Conservation Award
A P P L I C A T I O N
All applications are due by close of business on May 1, 2010, and must be compiled
into one PDF file.
Please make sure the file name reflects both the award name and the institution.
Abbreviations are fine.
AZA has contracted with WEBCARGO to provide a quick and easy way for you to submit
your application. Please submit your application using this link:
https://rwc3.webcargo.net/webcargo/r.php?w=274845-1u0egSYjJsz1PrUgap
WEBCARGO allows you to send large files via email, without the need to reduce their size.
There is no need to sign up, nothing to install and nothing to download. All deliveries are
encrypted so security is not an issue and WEBCARGO lets you know when your file is
received. The upload speed will vary depending on your Internet Service Provider and the
size of your file so you may need to be patient. Please contact Chris Altmann at 514-9055223 x249 or chris@webcargo.net if you need assistance with the upload.
Questions? Please contact Barbara Pueschel (bpueschel@aza.org; 301-562-0777 x231).
See 2010 International Conservation Award Guidelines for information about
completing this application.
A. CANDIDATE
Program Title: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo’s Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Has this program previously been submitted for an AZA award?
Yes
If yes, did it win an award?
achievement)
significant
Yes
(
top honor
X
No
No
B. APPLICANT
Institution Name: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
Address: 3701 South 10th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68107
Name of Director: Dennis E. Pate
Signature of Director:
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 1 of 12
C. PROGRAM SUMMARY—maximum of one-half single-spaced page of 12-point type
Madagascar’s remarkable species diversity and high levels of endemism are persistently under threat
from anthropogenic pressures. Consequently, the island has been ranked among the world’s most important
biodiversity hotspots, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts among conservation groups. With 90% of
the forest destroyed, most of the Malagasy flora and fauna is susceptible to extinction. Omaha’s Henry Doorly
Zoo (OHDZ) has been working in Madagascar since 1998 under the guidance of Dr. Edward Louis, Jr., Director
of Conservation Genetics and Director General of the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP). The MBP is
a multifaceted project targeting key ecological areas by incorporating research, education and community
involvement to preserve wildlife. MBP research has developed baseline molecular, distribution and census data
on lemurs and other Malagasy species through extensive fieldwork across the island. Besides delineating new
populations or ranges for numerous species, information generated by the MBP has been used to prioritize
critical biodiversity areas and inform government agencies and conservation organizations of dramatic declines
or illegal activities concerning wildlife. Incredibly the MBP is responsible for identifying 21 new lemur species,
ultimately rewriting lemur taxonomy. A key education component of the MBP is capacity building and
technology transfer demonstrated by the project’s support of over 40 Malagasy students. Currently the MBP
has concentrated its education and community efforts in three areas of Madagascar (Analamazaotra, Lavavolo,
and Kianjavato), each home to a critically endangered species. For these species to survive it is essential for
local communities and their members to take ownership and be actively engaged in conserving their
environment.
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 2 of 12
D. PROGRAM NARRATIVE
1. Due to its unique species biodiversity and continued pressure from human encroachment, Madagascar is
among the highest conservation priorities worldwide. With 40% of its forest cover lost between 1950 and 2000,
rapid and comprehensive surveys of Madagascar’s remaining forests are essential. Particularly susceptible to
extinction are the lemurs due to their relatively small and fragmented geographic ranges. In response, Omaha's
Henry Doorly Zoo’s (OHDZ) Conservation Genetics Department established the Madagascar Biodiversity
Partnership (MBP). With a goal of developing baseline molecular, distribution and census data on lemurs and
other Malagasy species, the MBP is performing extensive surveys and research across the island. By collecting
field and laboratory data MBP’s goal is to provide government and conservation agencies with information
necessary to make informed decisions to protect Madagascar’s wildlife. MBP also has the goal of continuing to
facilitate Madagascar projects of other AZA institutions, such as Denver, Houston and Saint Louis Zoos.
Realizing that research in isolation is not the only solution to conservation challenges, the MBP is expanding its
efforts to include education and local community involvement. Since Madagascar’s future rests in the hands of the
Malagasy people, the project is becoming actively involved with students from primary through graduate school.
In addition, the MBP is training and employing locals to work with the project, involving them directly in
conservation and empowering them to become advocates of their natural environment. The MBP, in collaboration
with their partners (both AZA and non-AZA institutions), is also working to build links with three communities:
Analamazaotra (location of MBP’s reintroduction efforts of the critically endangered Black-and-white ruffed lemur
and the endangered Diademed sifaka); Lavavolo (site of the critically endangered Radiated tortoise); and
Kianjavato (home to the largest known population of the critically endangered Greater bamboo lemur).
As an AZA-accredited zoo, OHDZ believes in a commitment to research to advance the scientific knowledge of
the animals in its care and to enhance the conservation of wild populations. In support of these goals, in 1996
OHDZ constructed the Bill and Berniece Grewcock Center for Conservation and Research (CCR) to facilitate its
veterinary, reproductive and conservation genetics programs. The Hubbard Research Wing expansion in 2006 led
to increased laboratory space for the MBP, along with comparative nutrition and plant conservation labs. In
addition, the OHDZ strives to increase member and public awareness of conservation issues particularly relating
to those animals in its exhibits. To this end, in May 2010, OHDZ opened Expedition Madagascar, a 17,000 square
foot exhibit highlighting the MBP’s in situ conservation efforts and the zoo’s ex situ conservation of Malagasy
fauna and flora (i.e. involvement in the Eulemur SSP®, Fossa PMP, Ruffed lemur SSP®).
2. The MBP has been working in Madagascar since 1998 and has no foreseeable end date. Currently employing
50 Malagasies, including drivers, field assistants, supervisors, and office staff, and supporting 13 graduate
students, the MBP is continuously conducting research and providing education and community outreach. The
signing of long-term leases at two field sites testifies to MBP’s commitment to Madagascar conservations efforts.
3. As previously mentioned, the MBP has concentrated its efforts in three areas of Madagascar:
Analamazaotra - In January 2006, the MBP in collaboration with Madagascar National Parks (MNP) and Eaux et
Fôret, initiated the first ever attempt to recover a species’ former distribution in Madagascar. Following IUCN
guidelines, the MBP initiated the Analamazaotra Re-introduction/Translocation (ART) project by re-establishing
the Diademed sifaka and the Black-and-white ruffed lemur back into their historical habitat range within
Analamazaotra Special Reserve (ASR). The ART project has led to 1) re-establishing viable wild populations of
the two species; 2) training two Malagasy graduate students, six MNP and two local field guides to collect
behavioral data; 3) training a graduate student to collect nutritional data; 4) collecting fecal samples for hormone
analysis to better understand reproductive physiology and behavior; 5) increasing protection of ASR and
habituating the re-introduced groups to human presence to enhance the already established eco-tourism industry;
6) educating local communities about biodiversity and their eco-region; and 7) enabling a natural expansion of
each species with multiple births within translocated groups.
Lavavolo - In 2007, the MBP established the Radiated Tortoise Project (RTP) to conserve this critically
endangered species in the dry spiny forests of southern Madagascar. Habitat destruction, illicit collection for local
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 3 of 12
consumption and international pet trade has led to dramatic declines in tortoise numbers. This species is
predicted to become extinct in the next 20 years. To address these threats, the MBP selected the community of
Lavavolo as the site for its long-term conservation efforts. The people of this area still maintain the local taboo
against eating or harming the tortoises. The RTP is using a combination of field monitoring, community initiatives
and educational outreach to benefit the Lavavolo community and the Radiated tortoise.
Kianjavato - Since 2000, the MBP has worked with the Kianjavato commune to protect two critically endangered
species, the Black-and-white ruffed lemur and the Greater bamboo lemur. Forest fragmentation from slash-andburn agriculture and firewood collection threatens the survival of these animals. Lemur monitoring programs are
ongoing and involve local guides and graduate students. The MBP has launched a grassroots reforestation effort,
Education Promoting Reforestation Project (EPRP), utilizing native trees to reestablish vital habitat corridors. The
goal is to connect remaining forest fragments, enable movement of lemurs and maintain genetic diversity. The
EPRP actively involves students, Peace Corps Volunteers and community members in its activities, empowering
them to take responsibility for the protection of their forests. In addition to replanting efforts, the MBP has
conducted community workshops regarding the construction of fuel-efficient rocket stoves. These stoves cook
quickly, use 70% less wood and reduce dependence upon the surrounding forests. MBP has been collaborating
with Omaha North High School students on stove design. By integrating solutions with the commune’s needs, the
MBP provides protection for Kianjavato’s forests and its lemurs, while simultaneously benefitting the local people.
4. OHDZ provides the MBP with an annual operating budget of $300,000 and salaries for nine full time
employees, including five Ph.D. scientists. This constitutes the largest single department within the CCR in terms
of financial and staff commitment. In addition, nine volunteers contribute 47 hours of work each week. The MBP
operating budget supports 50 full time Malagasy employees and 13 graduate students from the University of
Antananarivo. Grants from various funding agencies contribute an average of $230,000 per year.
5. The annual budget for the MBP is approximately $530,000 with 56.8% provided by the OHDZ and 1% provided
by other AZA institutions. The remaining funds are provided by non-AZA granting sources.
6. A key component of the MBP is capacity building and technology transfer. Over the past decade the MBP has
enabled 20 Malagasy and ten international students to complete their graduate or veterinary degrees and is
currently supporting 13 Malagasy graduate students. Under the MBP’s guidance these students write project
proposals, obtain collection permits and gather field data. Each student rotates through the OHDZ genetics
laboratory to gain knowledge and experience using state of the art technology, generate data, analyze and
interpret results and write first-author peer-reviewed papers. The ultimate goal is for these students to become
future leaders and teachers throughout the world and pass on the value of conservation to the next generation.
In 2007, the MBP produced a conservation coloring and activity book in the Malagasy language. Boxes of
crayons and 15,000 books were shipped to Madagascar and distributed to five target regions, each home to one
of the 25 most endangered primates. The goal was to educate the local people regarding the significance of their
forests as well as instilling a desire to protect them. This program was made possible by funds from OHDZ,
Conservation International, The Ahmanson Foundation, Margot Marsh Biodiversity Foundation (MMBF), MICET,
Memphis Zoological Garden and Aquarium, Gladys Porter Zoo, and the Omaha Chapters of AAZK and AZAD.
In 2009, with funding from MMBF and John Ball Zoological Gardens, the MBP initiated a conservation
education program in the Kianjavato commune. Activities included 1) teacher training workshops focused on
integrating conservation lessons into their curriculum; 2) visiting local schools to distribute posters and teach
conservation messages; 3) presenting nature videos in public gathering areas; 4) holding conservation camps for
teachers and students; 5) involving school kids in reforestation efforts; 6) monthly presentations by MBP graduate
students on flora and fauna of Madagascar; and 7) providing schools with books, puppets, games, etc. to teach
students about preserving nature. This program made advancements in establishing long-term connections with
teachers, children and the community members. This program supports not only conservation of the Black-andwhite ruffed lemur and the Greater bamboo lemur, but all flora and fauna endemic to this unique region.
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 4 of 12
7. The following institutions have provided the MBP with funding and personnel assistance: Gladys Porter Zoo,
Denver Zoological Gardens, Saint Louis Zoo, Memphis Zoological Garden and Aquarium, Houston Zoo,
FANAMBY, Omaha Chapters of AAZK and AZAD, University of Calgary, University of California - Berkley,
University of Montreal, Stony Brook University of New York, and White Oak Conservation Center. The following
institutions have contributed monetarily to the MBP project: Theodore and Claire Hubbard Family Foundation, The
Ahmanson Foundation, Conservation International, Margot Marsh Biodiversity Foundation, Turtle Survival
Alliance, Primate Action Fund, James Family Foundation, The Hawks Foundation, National Geographic, AZA
Radiated Tortoise SSP®, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, John Ball Zoological Gardens, Minnesota Zoological
Garden, Kansas City Zoo, Toledo Zoological Gardens, Primate Conservation Inc., Idea Wild, and FedEx - Kinko’s.
These institutions contributed personnel hours to the MBP project: Wildlife Conservation Society, MICET, Peace
Corps, Engineers Without Boarders-University of Nebraska at Omaha Chapter (EWB), Omaha North High School
and Conservation Fusion. In all, more than 10 AZA accredited institutions have contributed to the project.
8. Results from MBP projects are continually published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, with 90 manuscripts
published and 10 in press. Information has also been published in books such as Conservation International’s
Lemurs of Madagascar Field Guide and Pocket Guides and Nick Garbutt’s Mammals of Madagascar. Results are
disseminated at scientific conferences, during public presentations and through popular media such as National
Public Radio and Public Broadcasting Service. The MBP’s work has been highlighted in the award winning movie,
Madagascar Conservation vs. Survival, and in OHDZ’s new exhibit, Expedition Madagascar.
9. The MBP has conducted field research at over 120 sites throughout Madagascar and collected over 4,000
lemur genetic samples, monitored numerous Malagasy species, and generated molecular data to increase
knowledge of this island nation’s biodiversity. This research has resulted in 544 novel molecular markers, the
identification of 21 new lemur species and publication of numerous peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts.
From the original translocated animals, the ART project has seen the birth of seven Diademed sifakas and six
Black-and-white ruffed lemurs (including second generation births). At Lavavolo, the RTP has performed
preliminary tortoise population surveys, assessed nest site parameters and conducted community surveys
regarding wood and water usage. Thanks to monitoring efforts and community involvement at Kianjavato, the use
of lemur traps in the area has been significantly reduced and reforestation efforts have begun with the planting of
3,581 trees in March and at least 3,000 additional trees planned for May 2010. Across the island, the MBP has
reached 15,000 school children with its activity books and many more with its educational outreach programs.
The project has supported and mentored over 40 Malagasy graduate students since its inception.
The MBP’s commitment to Madagascar is apparent in its three long-term efforts at Analamazaotra, Lavavolo
and Kianjavato. The collaborative ART project has recently been strengthened with the signing of a 10-year lease
agreement and the establishment of a permanent field station with an onsite supervisor. The RTP continues to
monitor over 200 Radiated tortoises and nest sites and plans to conduct future educational activities. The MBP’s
dedication to conservation at Kianjavato is evidenced by a 25-year land lease on which the MBP has constructed
the Kianjavato Ahmanson Field Station (KAFS). This station serves as a center for community outreach and
research and will be turned over to the commune upon expiration of the lease. Currently, three EPRP nurseries
are located at KAFS from which 15,000 seedlings are being grown as part of the ongoing reforestation efforts.
MBP is collaborating with EWB to investigate solutions to water and health issues in Kianjavato.
10. With the support of our AZA partners, such as Denver Zoological Gardens and Houston Zoo, annual
biomedical evaluations are done on ASR lemurs to ensure population health. MBP education and community
outreach activities are regularly evaluated using surveys with local participants. All MBP programs, findings and
publications are shared and assessed by Malagasy agencies (MNP, Eaux et Fôret, University of Antananarivo),
U.S. organizations (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agency, OHDZ IACUC, OHDZ CEO and Board of Directors), the
scientific community and general public.
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 5 of 12
E. COLLABORATION
Collaborations have been an important to the project in expanding its efforts and are listed
under project partners.
F. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIALS
A map highlighting MBP’s concentrated efforts in three areas of Madagascar.
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 6 of 12
ART project - A family of re-introduced
Diademed sifakas at Analamazaotra Special
Reserve fitted with radio collars for
monitoring purposes.
ART project - MBP local field assistants and
graduate student, Rence Randrianindrina,
using radio-telemetry to monitor lemurs at
Analamazaotra Special Reserve.
ART project - Second generation offspring of re-introduced Black-and-white ruffed lemurs at
Analamazaotra Special Reserve.
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 7 of 12
RTP - MBP local field monitoring assistants collected data on a Radiated tortoise in Lavavolo.
MBP technology transfer - Fanomezana Ratsoavina, an MBP graduate student of the University of
Antananarivo, working on her leaf-tailed gecko project at the genetics laboratory of Omaha’s Henry
Doorly Zoo’s Center for Conservation and Research.
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 8 of 12
Kianjavato project - MBP graduate students of the University of Antananarivo, Hobinjatovo
Tokiniaina and Jean Freddy Ranaivoarisoa, taking measurements of a Black-and-white ruffed lemur.
Kianjavato project - MBP staff members and graduate students in front of the Kianjavato Ahmanson
Field Station.
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 9 of 12
G. IMAGE—one digital image that illustrates the program to be used during the AZA
Annual Conference Awards Ceremony.
Dr. Edward E. Louis, Jr. (Director General of the Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo’s Madagascar
Biodiversity Partnership) and Jean Aime Andriamihaja (MBP field assistant) releasing a Diademed
sifaka into Analamazaotra Special Reserve as part of the Analamazaotra Re-location/Translocation
project.
H. SUBMITTER
The SUBMITTER is that person responsible for the contents of the entry. Failure to provide
an electronic signature on the designated line will constitute an incomplete application.
Name: Edward E. Louis, Jr, DVM, Ph.D.
Title: Director of Conservation Genetics and Director General of the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Signature:
Date: April 29, 2010
E-mail address: genetics@omahazoo.com
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 10 of 12
I. NEWS RELEASE FORM
Submit the News Release Form (available at http://www.aza.org/HonorsAwards/) with the
application and also email the form as a WORD document to Barbara Pueschel:
bpueschel@aza.org
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
Honors and Awards Program
News Release Form
This form must be submitted with each award application.
AZA will create a news release for each award winner. Please complete this form and in
the “summary” portion, write a paragraph describing your program, including details such
as new techniques or technologies employed, cost of construction (for exhibit award
applications), and a description of any species of animal involved. Also, please submit the
name, phone number and email address of a media contact for the award. Copies of the
release will be shared with the institution for approval. It would be helpful to request that
the Public Relations Department at your institution complete this form.
Institution Name: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
Award Category: AZA International Conservation Award
Program or Exhibit Title: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo’s Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Media Contact: Dawn Ream
Phone Number: (402) 738-2007 or (402) 738-2022
E-mail Address: marketing@omahazoo.com or dawnr@omahazoo.com
Public Relations Department Head: Dawn Ream
Quote from the institution’s Director: “Dr. Louis and his staff have made an unbelievable
commitment to make a major difference to wildlife conservation and people in Madagascar.
His efforts along with those of our many partners have allowed us to expand sites and
disciplines to enhance that commitment.”
Any collaborative partners: N/A
Construction/Consultation Company (Exhibit Award applicants): N/A
Summary (to be utilized in developing press release):
Madagascar’s remarkable species diversity and high levels of endemism are
persistently under threat from anthropogenic pressures. Consequently, the island has been
ranked among the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots, underscoring the need for
coordinated efforts among conservation groups. With 90% of the forest destroyed, most of
the Malagasy flora and fauna is susceptible to extinction. The Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo
has been working in Madagascar since 1998 under the guidance of Dr. Edward Louis, Jr.,
Director of Conservation Genetics and Director General of the Madagascar Biodiversity
Partnership (MBP). The MBP is a multifaceted project targeting key ecological areas by
incorporating research, education and community involvement to preserve wildlife. MBP
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 11 of 12
research has developed baseline molecular, distribution and census data on lemurs and
other Malagasy species through extensive fieldwork across the island. Besides delineating
new populations or ranges for numerous species, information generated by the MBP has
been used to prioritize critical biodiversity areas and inform government agencies and
conservation organizations of dramatic declines or illegal activities concerning wildlife.
Incredibly the MBP is responsible for identifying 21 new lemur species, ultimately rewriting
lemur taxonomy. A key education component of the MBP is capacity building and
technology transfer demonstrated by the project’s support of over 40 Malagasy students.
Currently the MBP has concentrated its education and community efforts in three areas of
Madagascar (Analamazaotra, Lavavolo, and Kianjavato), each home to a critically
endangered species. For these species to survive it is essential for local communities and
their members to take ownership and be actively engaged in conserving their environment.
J. WINNER’S RELEASE: HELP YOUR FELLOW MEMBERS!
If yours is the winning application, would you be willing to have it posted on the AZA
website?
X
Yes
No
AZA conservation award FINAL
Page 12 of 12
Science 11 April 2008:
Vol. 320. no. 5873, pp. 222 - 226
Aligning Conservation Priorities Across Taxa in
Madagascar with High-Resolution Planning Tools
C. Kremen,1,2*
A. Cameron,1,2
A. Moilanen,3 S. J. Phillips,4 C. D. Thomas,5
6
6
H. Beentje, J. Dransfield, B. L. Fisher,7 F. Glaw,8 T. C. Good,9 G. J. Harper,10 R. J.
Hijmans,11 D. C. Lees,12 E. Louis, Jr.,13 R. A. Nussbaum,14 C. J. Raxworthy,15 A.
Razafimpahanana,2 G. E. Schatz,16 M. Vences,17 D. R. Vieites,18 P. C. Wright,19 M.
L. Zjhra9
Globally, priority areas for biodiversity are relatively well known, yet few detailed plans
exist to direct conservation action within them, despite urgent need. Madagascar, like
other globally recognized biodiversity hot spots, has complex spatial patterns of
endemism that differ among taxonomic groups, creating challenges for the selection of
within-country priorities. We show, in an analysis of wide taxonomic and geographic
breadth and high spatial resolution, that multitaxonomic rather than single-taxon
approaches are critical for identifying areas likely to promote the persistence of most
species. Our conservation prioritization, facilitated by newly available techniques,
identifies optimal expansion sites for the Madagascar government's current goal of
tripling the land area under protection. Our findings further suggest that high-resolution
multitaxonomic approaches to prioritization may be necessary to ensure protection for
biodiversity in other global hot spots.
1
Department of Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management, 137 Mulford Hall, University of
California, Berkeley, CA 94720-3114, USA.
2
Réseau de la Biodiversité de Madagascar, Wildlife Conservation Society, Villa Ifanomezantsoa,
Soavimbahoaka, Boîte Postale 8500, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar.
3
Metapopulation Research Group, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Post Office Box
65, Viikinkaari 1, FI-00014, University of Helsinki, Finland.
4
AT&T Labs-Research, 180 Park Avenue, Florham Park, NJ07932, USA.
5
Department of Biology (Area 18), University of York, Post Office Box 373, York YO10 5YW, UK.
6
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond TW9 3AB, Surrey, UK.
7
Department of Entomology, California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA.
8
Zoologische Staatssammlung München, Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247 München, Germany.
9
Department of Biology, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA 30460, USA.
10
Conservation International, Center for Applied Biodiversity Science, 2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 500,
Arlington, VA 22202, USA.
11
International Rice Research Institute, Los Baños, Philippines.
12
Department of Entomology, Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, UK.
13
Center for Conservation and Research, Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE 68107, USA.
14
Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1079, USA.
15
American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024-5192,
USA.
16
Missouri Botanical Garden, Post Office Box 299, St. Louis, MO 63166-0299, USA.
17
Zoological Institute, Technical University of Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany.
18
Museum of Vertebrate Zoology and Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, 3101
Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA 94720-3160, USA.
19
Department of Anthropology, State University of New York, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
MBP & HDZ’s
Kianjavato
Ahmanson Field Station Report • April 2010 Edition
Table of Contents
Dr. Ed Louis and the MBP................................................................................Page 1
The Greater Bamboo Lemur Program............................................................. Page 2
Cyclone Disaster................................................................................................. Page 6
Kianjavato Ahmanson Field Station................................................................ Page 8
Education Promoting Reforestation Program.............................................. Page 12
Learning About Reforestation........................................................................ Page 14
Adding Fuel to the Conservation Fire........................................................... Page 16
Kianjavato Conservation Education.............................................................. Page 19
Education for all Ages...................................................................................... Page 20
The Future of Madagascar.............................................................................. Page 24
Photos: (Above from left) Dr. Ed Louis, project director of the MBP, shows a Malagasy student a coloring book the MBP
developed in 2007. Susie McGuire, program manager of Conservation Fusion, helps primary school students with an
educational art project. (Below) Dr. Louis and his Malagasy MBP employees at an awards banquet in Madagascar.
Dr. Ed Louis and the MBP
D
r. Edward Louis Jr. of the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP), along with
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, has been involved in conservation projects throughout Madagascar
for over 12 years. The MBP utilizes scientific research to aid in the protection of endangered
animals and has been responsible for naming 22 previously undescribed lemur species.
Along with the scientific research that has been done for Madagascar conservation, the
MBP has led numerous community involvement and education projects and has recently created
a collaboration with the non-profit education organization, Conservation Fusion. The MBP
recognizes that the future of Madagascar’s incredible biodiversity lies within the hands of the
Malagasy people and hopes to instill a sense of pride toward their national treasures through
community and education projects.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
1
The Greater Bamboo Lemur
M
adagascar is home to unique biodiversity found nowhere else on earth, it
is also considered one of the world’s greatest biodiversity hot spots despite losing
over 90% of its original forests. Particularly susceptible to extinction are
the lemur species, such as the Greater Bamboo lemur (Prolemur simus).
The Greater Bamboo lemur was once found throughout the island but is
now limited to a few isolated areas, primarily in southeastern Madagascar,
including the forests surrounding Kianjavato village. A labeled map of
this area can be found on the inside of the back cover.
Human threats such as loss of habitat due to agricultural slash and
burn (tavy), mining, and hunting of the P. simus have led to its status as
one of the world’s most critically endangered primates.
Furthering the threat of this species, the Greater
Bamboo lemurs’ specialized diet that consists mainly
of Giant Bamboo, restricts the lemur’s overall range
across Madagascar. The animal’s dependence on
this food source also increases the need for
a large territorial range to meet its dietary
requirements.
In 2008, surveys over the previous
20 years had found less than 75 animals
in all of Madagascar (Wright et al. 2008).
Swift conservation measures must be taken in
order for P. simus to have a chance at survival.
The Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership, MBP, is
contributing significantly to the conservation of the
Greater Bamboo lemur, establishing a variety of projects
in Kianjavato village and its surrounding forests.
2
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
M
adagascar’s
impoverished state means that
the Malagasy population must
rely on the forests to meet their
basic needs. In the recent past,
Kianjavato’s Greater Bamboo
lemur populations’ greatest threat
was due to their being hunted as a
food source. The MBP believes that
educating the community about
how rare the Greater Bamboo
lemur is could influence the way
they feel about hunting it. Strong
ties to the community would be
essential for both the survival of
the Greater Bamboo lemur and
improving the quality of life for the
Kianjavato community.
The MBP has an established
working relationship with Mr.
Dadalioka Rakotonirina, a local
Malagasy who had previously
been working independently to
save the P. simus by releasing the
lemurs from traps hunters had set
up and destroying the traps so that
no other animals could get caught
in them.
In 2007, the MBP initiated a
community- based monitoring project, providing immediate protection for P. simus and
employment for local guides, including Dadalioka as supervisor of this program. By involving
local guides, the MBP is able to establish a valuable connection to the community as well as
gain employees that are already familiar with the land.
Data compiled from this monitoring project will provide information such as
population genetics, group dynamics, territory size, seasonal movement,
and individual relationships to contrast with Greater Bamboo
lemurs found in other areas of Madagascar. Application of
this information will help to evaluate the status of
Kianjavato to advocate the recognition of this site as a
locally protected area.
As a result of the monitoring and surveillance
program, Mr. Rakotonirina has detected no
new evidence of lemur traps since December 2007. With this
project in progress, the MBP is monitoring the largest known
population of P. simus in Kianjavato with 12 animals collared
and 45 individuals confirmed. Using the 12 radio-collared
individuals to monitor the population, three groups were identified with
group sizes ranging from 13-17 animals. Incredibly, each of the three
groups produced five offspring in November 2008.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
3
K
ianjavato Classified Forest is currently a non-protected area two hours east of
Ranomafana National Park. One hundred and fifty hectares out of the 5,000 are managed by the
National Center for Applied Research on Rural Development, known as FOFIFA. The MBP has an
established collaborative agreement with FOFIFA and is currently supporting the renovation of
a FOFIFA building, this is part of the MBP’s concentrated effort toward community involvement
and education. The renovated building will be used as a center for village members to gather.
Photos: (From top) One of the buildings on Kianjavato’s FOFIFA grounds. Aerial view of Kianjavato (courtesey of Google
Earth) showing the village and FOFIFA grounds north of the highway. The Kianjavato Classified Forest extends due
north from the grounds. The white, orange and blue points indicate the three groups of Greater Bamboo lemurs the MBP
has tracked in this forest.
4
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
I
n July 2009, new groups of P. simus were identified in the bamboo
forest south of the mountains of Tsitola and Ambatovaky near Kianjavato,
bringing the total estimated population to 130-150 individuals.
As a result, the MBP hired four more local guides to assist
Mr. Rakotonirina to monitor the Greater bamboo lemur
population in this region. The number of P. simus identified
in the area, along with the wide spread distribution of the
lemur groups, has dramatically increased from the survey
information in Wright et al. (2008).
Photos: (Above) A lemur is released after biomedical information is gathered
from the animal. (Right) A Greater Bamboo lemur near Kianjavato village.
(Below) Roadside view of Tsitola Mountain. Prolemur simus populations are
found within the lower slopes, which contain bamboo forests (south of the
mountain range.)
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
5
Cyclone Disaster
M
adagascar has faced devastation from not
only human pressures that deplete its forests,
but also natural disasters like the cyclone
that affected the southeastern, middle and
western regions of the island in March
of 2010. This storm, named cyclone
Hubert, hit the southeastern coast of
Madagascar at full force on March 10
and continued to sweep through the
island until it finally subsided three
days later. The area of Kianjavato
suffered immensely as Hubert
flooded the land- demolishing
homes, roads, and bridges.
According to the National
Government Disaster and Risk
Management, 12 of Madagascar’s
districts were directly devastated by
the March cyclone, destroying 70-85%
of the crops in the region and leaving
over 30,000 people without homes. Hubert
took the lives of 14 individuals, injured
many others, and delivered mass devastation
to Madagascar’s precious flora and fauna.
6
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Photos: (Opposite page from top) Men try to transport their crops through the deadly floods. Trees lay in ruin after 45
mph winds damaged the countryside. (Above) The red earth is eroded away by dangerous flooding that has destroyed
a large portion of Madagascar’s crops and homes. (Below) Transportation becomes impossible as the few functioning
roads in the area are demolished by the storm.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
7
Kianjavato
Ahmanson Field
Field Station
Kianjavato Ahmanson
Station
“Commune Rurale de Kianjavato- Henry Doorly ZooMadagascar Biodiversity and Biogeography Project”
C
onstruction for the MBP’s new Madagascar headquarters, the Kianjavato Ahmanson Field
Station (KAFS), is nearing completion. A 25 year lease for the land with the Kianjavato commune
was signed to secure the area for the building. The KAFS building consists of four shipping
containers secured to a concrete foundation. KAFS is designed to house three dorm rooms (two
for Malagasy graduate students and one for guests and professors), a kitchen, office space, a
research laboratory, a nearby well, and a greenhouse.
This facility will provide a central location for all research and community outreach projects
at Kianjavato. A key to the conservation plan is the education of local school children as well
as the adult community. All graduate students in the MBP program will give monthly rotating
presentations to community members at KAFS to further the awareness of the unique biodiversity
of their country. Topics will cover a wide range of flora and fauna including orchids, lemurs,
reptiles and bats.
Photos from left: The beginning stage of KAFS in which framework is placed atop the containers to form a second floor.
The KAFS building’s roof is added.
8
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Photos: The MBP field team moved the four large shipping containers used to construct the KAFS building.
The containers were pulled by ropes along wooden beams over an up-hill unpaved road. Each 20 foot container weighs
around 8,000-10,000 pounds.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
9
Photos: (Above and right) The construction of the KAFS
building in progress from the placement of the shipping
containers to the completion of the roof.
(Below from left) The well is dug to be used as a clean water
source for the KAFS building, it was completed in September
2009. The well was hand-dug and its final depth is 17 meters.
The completed well in use by MBP employees, November 2009.
10
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Photos: (Above from left) Primary school children
show off artwork that they have completed on KAFS
grounds as part of a conservation education project.
Seedlings are sorted out at the KAFS greenhouse.
(Left) The KAFS upper level illuminated at night
during an education event.
(Below from left) Grass is added to the KAFS roof.
The sign for KAFS, featuring the Greater Bamboo
lemur, is attached to the building.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
11
Education Promoting Reforestation Program
T
he MBP has established a grassroots
reforestation program in collaboration with
the commune of Kianjavato (the commune
of Kianjavato includes the villages of
Kianjavato, Vatovavy, and Fotobohitra)
in order to connect the forest fragments
between the villages and provide a corridor
for P. simus movement.
In 2009, the MBP initiated the
“Education Promoting Reforestation
Program,” or EPRP. The EPRP utilizes
the specialized diet and important seed
dispersal function of the Black and white
ruffed lemur, Varecia variegata. Like the Greater Bamboo lemur, this critically endangered lemur is
threatened not only by habitat loss but also the restrictive nature of its diet. The
ruffed lemur eats a huge quantity of fruit (90% of its diet),
but does not damage the seeds and serves as a vital seed
disperser in the forest. The graduate students of the ART
project have demonstrated that the Black and white
ruffed fecals collected for hormone analyses would
provide viable seeds to be germinated in a nursery
setting. By germinating the seeds from the Varecia
populations, the commune of Kianjavato can begin to
re-establish surrounding habitat corridors between
the existing forest fragments.
Graduate student Christophe Manjaribe, from the
Botany Department of the University of Antananarivo
was hired by the MBP to mangage the EPRP. Mr.
Manjaribe, working with the local field assistants, has
collected fecal samples from the two frugivorous lemurs, V.
variegata and E. rufrifrons. The fecals have been planted for
reforestation, restoration, and agriculture.
Germination of seeds began in August 2009. By March of 2010, 3,581 trees; 1,634 of the
Pitecholobium dulce plant; 868 Albizia lebbeck
plant; 667 Harungana madagascariensis; and
412 Albizia chinensis had been planted. By
germinating the seeds from V. variegata and
E. rubrifrons populations, the commune of
Kianjavato can begin to reforest and restore
surrounding habitat corridors between Vatovavy
and Fotobohitra for future generations of
lemurs. In addition, bamboo culms (3 per
transfer) will be translocated to extend and
enhance the bamboo corridor between Tsitalo
and Vatovavy..
12
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Photos: (Above from left) Kianjavato school children wait to plant their trees at KAFS. Holes are dug for a reforestation
plant and a labeled wooden stake is used to identify each plant. (Below) The hill outisde of KAFS and the greenery that
has been added through the MBP’s reforestation project.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
13
Learning about Reforestation
S
tudents from the primary schools of Kianjavato participate in the EPRP by germinating,
growing, and planting tree seedlings in the KAFS greenhouse area in hopes of ensuring habitat
for future generations of lemurs. These plants will eventually be planted in the forest corridor to
connect the forest fragments for the EPRP.
In the fall of 2009, the children also completed art projects in which they painted in the gaps
between two trees on a large banner by using their handprints. The MBP hopes that by teaching
the children how to plant and grow their own trees, they will have a greater sense of pride toward
the unique flora that surround them.
14
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Photos, previous page: (Above from left) Student’s cover the seeds they’ve planted with dirt. A black and white ruffed
lemur, a species that provides the seeds for the EPRP, hangs from a tree. (Bottom from left) EPRP project manager,
Christophe, shows kids the seeds extracted from lemur droppings. A group observes as a Malagasy student waters the
recently planted seeds at the KAFS nursery.
Photos, this page: (Above from left) EPRP project manager, Christophe, teaches children about the life cycle of a plant.
Children admire the seeds they have planted. (Below from left) A child places his handprint on an EPRP project. A
Kianjavato primary school class proudly display their artwork in front of the KAFS building.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
15
Adding Fuel to the Conservation Fire
I
n recent years, many conservation projects have combined community
development and conservation goals in an effort to ease human pressure on
ecosystems. In developing nations today, 76% of wood cut is used for cooking
and heating fuel, placing enormous pressure on forests. During an informal
assessment, the people of Kianjavato expressed a desire for a more
fuel-efficient cooking system.
In July 2009, the MBP began to address this issue
by providing the necessary training and support to
construct 111 fuel-efficient “Rocket Stoves” that
offer an alternative method that reduces charcoal
use and expenses for local people. In addition, the
MBP initiated on-site workshops to demonstrate
the construction of the modified Peterson Press to
make fuel briquettes, which provide an alternative to
charcoal. In Madagascar, cooking fuel can consume half
of a families’ income. The briquettes are constructed of
local waste materials such as grass clippings, leaves, paper
scraps, sawdust, and rice husks. The local community benefits directly
from this conservation endeavor as briquettes are produced by locals
and sold in direct, free-market competition with firewood and charcoal,
providing meaningful, self-sustaining employment for locals who are otherwise
under- or unemployed. Ultimately by reducing pressure upon the forest in Kianjavato, this
enhances the survival of the Greater bamboo lemur.
The MBP has developed a collaborative relationship with the Engineers Without Borders
(EWB) student chapters from the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) and Lincoln (UNL)
campuses. In February 2009, the UNO and UNL EWB secured funding to travel to Madagascar
to conduct an initial assessment
of the needs of the Kianjavato
community by generating
topographic data for future
construction projects along
with health and water quality
evaluations. Additionally, the EWB
program will be linked to ongoing
community efforts by UNICEF
(building a new primary school),
UNDP (building a local hospital),
and PeaceCorps (completing
housing for a representative who
will focus on environmental
education). The MBP and EWB will
collaborate with the Kianjavato
commune to enhance these other
NGO projects by establishing
green-based technology.
16
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
M
BP employees in Omaha are working with a high school class on a project in which
they will establish the best suited combinations of material (i.e. sawdust, grass, paper products,
rice hulls and stems) for constructing the biofuel briquettes. Funds are being accumulated to
purchase a bio-fuel grinder to be put into production at KAFS for this enterprise. In November
and December of 2009, workshops were held at the Kianjavato Ahmanson Field Station to find the
selected candidates. Candidates will learn how to maintain and use a press for efficient qualitycontrolled production of fuel-briquettes. Production and sale of briquettes will tentatively begin
later in 2010. Because our field guides reside in Ranomafana, the MBP-HDZ trucks are constantly
traveling between Antananarivo and Ranomafana. During all return trips, sawdust will be picked
up at Sambaina (36 km from Antsirabe) and temporarily stored in rice sacks to be transported to
Kianjavato. Financial sustainability will be built through the bio-fuel briquette enterprise. Thirtyfive percent of the income will go to Commune of Kianjavato; 45% to work force manufacturing
the briquettes, and 20% to pay the local MBP employees. The goal is that this market will provide
a sustainable enterprise to the local community.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
17
Kianjavato community members attended “Rocket Stove” construction workshops to learn how to create and use the fuelefficient stoves. The first workshops took place in July 2009 and resulted in the completion of 111 stoves taken home with
participants to be used for their daily cooking.
18
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
ucation
Conservation Ed
Over 70% of Madagascar’s population lives well below the poverty line, with an average
income of less than $1 a day. This problem only increases as the population grows at a rate of 3%
each year, making over 2/3 under the age of 20. Despite the growing youth in this country, only
20% of Madagascar’s national budget goes toward education, 95% of this amount is devoted to
administratve salaries. Children in Madagascar rarely have access to books, educational games,
art supplies, or other learning materials that aid in children’s development.
Education and conservation go hand in hand. In December 2007, the Madagascar
Biodiversity Partnership (MBP) distributed over 15,000 conservation–based coloring and activity
books entitled “Lemurs: Your National Treasure” along with crayons and notebooks to primary
school children throughout Madagascar. The activity books were created by MBP staff members
to be utilized as a resource for educating Malagasy children about the biodiversity of the
rainforest and to instill conservation in their hearts and minds. The MBP, along with Conservation
Fusion, has since established new education projects with the goal of educating the next
generation of Malagasy leaders and empowering them to take responsible action.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
19
Conservation education for all ages
T
he MBP has not only been involved in the recent education projects for primary school
children, but also the professional development of Malagasy graduate students and a local
field team. This training and employment of locals involves them directly in the process of
conservation and encourages them to be advocates of their natural environment. The MBP
has supported over 40 Malagasy graduate students and has enabled 18 Malagasy and ten
international students to complete their graduate or veterinary degrees. The MBP also supports
over 50 full-time Malagasy employees as field assistants, project supervisors, office employees,
drivers, and supporting field personnel.
Photos: (Above) MBP employee for the reforestation project, Christophe, teaches school children about collecting seeds
from lemur fecal samples outside the KAFS building. (Below from left) Graduate student, Tahiana, works on orchid
samples at the Henry Doorly Zoo’s Genetics lab. Field team leader, Richard, collects biomedical information from a
Diademed sifaka. Freddy, an MBP graduate student, assists with a teacher’s workshop in Kianjavato.
20
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
Madagascar’s current school curriculum places little emphasis on Malagasy flora
and fauna or the importance of their country and distinctive culture. In the fall of 2009, the
MBP conducted three workshops with educators from seven primary schools in and around
Kianjavato. The intent of the workshops was to implement an environmental education program
that could be integrated into the existing Malagasy curriculum.
Educational crates were provided to the teachers with materials that coordinate with specific
environmental lessons illustrated in the teacher’s guides that were also included in the crates. The
crates were filled with environmental games, maps, puppets, books, binoculars, art supplies, and
posters meant to supplement lessons about topics such as the rainforest, biomes, and the plant
life cycle.
Photos: (Above from left) Teachers work together to assemble a puzzle from an educational crate. Teachers at the
workshop look at the children’s books that correlate with conservation lessons. (Below) Teacher’s observe a flower with a
magnifying glass.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
21
Photos: (Above) Teachers pay attention as MBP staff
members show them new educational material and how to
incoorporate them with conservation lessons.
(Right) A teacher from the workshop shows a local child
how to use binoculars. (Below) Teachers play an animal
memory game from the education crates.
22
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
A
fter the completion of the teacher workshops, evaluations conducted by the MBP
revealed that 98% of the local teachers, attending all three of the teacher training workshops,
found the workshops to be successful. More specific evaulation revealed that the teachers found
the materials to be entertaining as well as instructional. 75% of teachers felt the workshop greatly
improved both their environmental knowledge as well as their teaching methods and believe this
will instill a love for nature in the hearts of the children.
By investing in leaders at the local level, we can ultimately have a far greater impact on
communities living in areas of high biodiversity. This will strengthen school leadership and
motivate teachers to increase their knowledge base and create a strong sense of awareness
regarding environmental issues amongst primary schoolchildren.
Photos: (Above) Teacher from the workshop enjoy trying out binoculars from an educational crate. (Below from left) A
teacher makes a child laugh with a frog puppet from an educational crate. Children gather around a teacher as he holds
out a lemur stuffed animal that was added to the crate as a supplement for an environmental lesson about Madagascar
biodiversity.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
23
The Future of Madagascar
M
alagasy children are considered privileged if they have the opportunity to attend school,
this is because kids are often needed to work at home or simply live too far to access a school on
a daily basis. Malagasy students seldom are able to utilize educational materials such as books,
flashcards, or even paper to aid in their education. In the 1990’s it was reported that only 5% of
Madagascar’s population attended college, with a small percentage ever graduating.
The MBP conservation education and outreach program in Kianjavato provides primary
school students, typically ranging in age from about 6 to 14, with the opportunity to learn about
the natural world around them. This project has also supplied them with materials that provide a
new outlet for learning. These learning tools include puzzles, memory games, puppets as well as
posters and books translated to the Malagasy language.
Besides the learning activities provided in the classroom, children were treated to a “movie
night” in which they watched environmental videos about plants and animals around the world.
The students were also able to experience nature first hand when MBP staff members took them
into the forest to observe the plants and animals around them. Art projects took place at KAFS
that taught the children about forest preservation.
24
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
T
he MBP conservation education and outreach program in Kianjavato has been an important
first step to increasing knowledge and understanding of Madagascar’s one of a kind biodiversity,
instilling compassion and empowering the Malagasy people to protect and preserve their national
treasure.
Photos, previous page: (Above from left) Two Malagasy girls gather in front of their school to participate in an educational
project. Students pay close attention to a book provided in an educational crate. (Below) Students work together to
assemble a rainforest puzzle.
Photos, this page: (Above) Children learn about biodiversity through the aid of puppets. (Below from left) The inside of a
typical Malagasy school.
MBP and HDZ’s Kianjavato Project
25
Photos: (Above) A Kianjavato class shows off their new Bamboo lemur puppets. (Below from top) An MBP educational
crate sits on a desk in a Malagasy classroom in preparation for a conservation lesson. Children watch environmental films
on the MBP’s movie night.
26
Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership
This document is printed on recycled paper