Experimenting new practices with the US Forest Service

The new tree nursery in Ankaizinina

The United States Forest Service is working in many parts of the world through its International Programs. They have had partners in Africa and Middle East for over 20 years and they have collaborated also with Malagasy institutions.

Early in 2021, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the USFS arranged a webinar for certain Malagasy organisations to discuss activities concerning forest restoration, management of wildfires, restoration of mangrove ecosystems and the trade of precious wood. Since then, the USFS has settled down in Madagascar and is collaborating with many institutions and organisations, including Association Mitsinjo.

On the basis of the webinar, the USFS decided to launch forest activities with Madagascar National Park Menabe and Association Mitsinjo, both having a long experience in phenological restoration. The first stage of collaboration with Mitsinjo began in October 2021 with seedling production. For this purpose, a new tree nursery was first created in Ankaizinina, in the Forest Station of Analamazaotra, Andasibe. In addition to usual plant beds, a greenhouse was built as part of the techniques introduced by the USFS. Its purpose is to create a favourable atmosphere for the germination of seeds during the winter season. The greenhouse also prevents the rain from reaching the seedlings. One of the main parameters to control in this technique is the quantity of water received by the plants.

Plant beds for the wild seedlings were made in early 2022

The construction of the greenhouse was well underway in May 2022

The greenhouse has been the centre for experimenting new practices in the nursery with one native tree species, Harungana madagascariensis. For growing seedlings, containers have been used instead of plastic bags/polybags. They are reusable, easier to fill and require less manual work. The cost of restoration will be considerably reduced in the long term. They are also favourable for the development of roots. Containers are cone-shaped tubes that have vertical lines on their sides to guide the downward growth of roots. There are several types of tubes of different volume, of which the USFS and Mitsinjo have chosen two, D27 and D40.

Before sowing, the seeds of H. madagascariensis collected from the forest have been manipulated to accelerate their germination. This has brought good results, for the germination time has shortened from four months to 20 days. Part of the seeds have been sown directly into containers, in which they grow until transplantation. The other seeds have first germinated in a sprouter before replanting. With both planting techniques, Mitsinjo’s team has used two different fertilisers. Some plants have been given Osmocote, the others have got Guanomad. Both contain nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium – nutrients that are important for the development of seedlings. Osmocote gradually releases its nutrients over six months, whereas Guanomad releases the nutrients at the same time and is quickly absorbed by plants. Some of the seedlings fertilised with Osmocote will be used in an experiment in the restoration site. They will be planted in holes that have VAM at the bottom. The other seedlings will be used for this year’s restoration activity.

Seedlings of H. madagascariensis growing in D27 containers.
Plants in this block have been fertilised with Osmocote

Mitsinjo has always been doing regular monitoring both in the nurseries and in the restoration sites following the health of seedlings, but collaboration with the USFS has brought new, additional practices. The quality of tap water given to the plants and the availability of nutrients is verified by doing tests with a pH metre and an EC metre. After watering, the containers are weighed using block weight method to check the quantity of water given to the seedlings. The aim of all these practices is to improve the resilience of the plants in the face of climate change and to promote success in forest restoration. Hajanirina RAZAFIMANDIMBY, USFS regional focal point for Alaotra-Mangoro is supporting the team in its work.

Haja is giving a training in the new practices

Work in the greenhouse

Outside the greenhouse, Mitsinjo is producing plants with their habitual methods. Wild seedlings of different native tree species collected from the forest have been replanted in polybags with VAM as fertiliser. Like the containers in the greenhouse, the polybags have been placed in plant beds. The bamboo canes above them are used to regulate the degree of sunlight reaching the plants. During dry periods, seedlings are watered when necessary.

Replanting wild seedlings

In last January, the six organisations of the 2021 webinar were reunited in a workshop in Andasibe to exchange their experiences. During the first two days, the USFS, the Silo National des Graines Forestières (SNGF), the University of Antananarivo, the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Madagascar Voakajy, Madagascar National Park Menabe and Mitsinjo gave each a presentation of their activities. The second day started with a visit to Mitsinjo’s nursery to see the results brought about by the new techniques of seedling production. This visit offered the participants an opportunity to pose questions to Mitsinjo’s team and to the USFS personnel. Besides Hajanirina Razafimandimby, members of the USFS Madagascar team and Karma Bouazza, a restoration specialist from USFS Lebanon were present. In the afternoon, Karma gave a training on the target plant concept. It defines what should be taken into account when planning a project – beginning from the project objectives to the planting tool (container/polybag) used in the nursery, – because they impact the results of restoration.

In January, the greenhouse was full of well-growing seedlings

Youssouf and Divana show how the quantity of water is checked

The last two days were reserved for a training given to the teams of MNP Menabe and Mitsinjo. On the third day of the workshop, they first went to see the restoration site on the southwestern border of the Analamazaotra Forest Station, where Mitsinjo would plant seedlings this year. Members of Mitsinjo and people from a nearby community were already clearing the area to make space for planting. There was first discussion about the prevailing conditions and Mitsinjo’s usual methods. Then, Karma gave a demonstration of monitoring during planting. She selected two of the seedlings Mitsinjo’s team had brought to the site. The container cones were different in size. Karma explained that the bigger cone was good for fast-growing and medium growth species and for seedlings with long roots to be planted into deep soil, while the smaller cone was suitable for seedlings planted in places where the soil was shallow. Karma planted the seedling with long roots in the upper part of the slope telling to the spectators what she was doing. She checked the proper planting depth, the extension of roots downwards and tamped the soil after planting to make sure that no air pockets were left. Lastly, Karma tugged the seedling gently to verify that it could not be uprooted. She also pointed out that vegetation should be cleared away from around the seedling, if not necessary to leave for giving shade and protection to the young plant. The other seedling was planted on the top of the mountain where the soil was shallower.

Back at the office, the program continued with an exercise in nursery practice comparison monitoring. Karma gave examples how Mitsinjo could form samples by making different combinations of planting methods, fertilisers and planting tools for comparing their impact on the results. Later, Karma repeated the checking list concerning monitoring during plantation. She also presented in further detail the recommendations for nursery practice comparison monitoring. A representative sample of each nursery practice should be tracked for success in outplanting survival and growth. This can be done by planting seedlings in blocks consisting of several rows, each representing one nursery practice. Information of every seedling (row number, tree number, nursery practice, height and diameter of root collar) is entered into a sample data collecting sheet, first during the initial planting on the site and then during subsequent monitoring, at which time survival of the seedling is checked. Remarks on mortality, damage or other things can also be made. Each tree and planted block is recorded on the ground and map to enable monitoring visits even many years later.

Example of forming samples

The workshop ended in a planning exercise. The teams of Mitsinjo and MNP Menabe were asked to define their objectives for tree nurseries, restoration and communities during this year and the following two years. In 2023-2025, Mitsinjo plans to produce 70,000 seedlings in containers. 10,000 of them will be used every year for restoring 10 hectares, 1,000 seedlings per one hectare. Osmocote will be used as fertiliser along with VAM. The conditions prevailing in the restoration sites will be identified as well for defining the species and categories of trees to be produced. Considering communities, people living in the villages surrounding the restoration site are taken into account as in all projects implemented by Mitsinjo. Fifteen planters and five seed collectors will be employed annually.

Mitsinjo’s team discussing objectives
Sitting: André nurseryman, Youssouf technical manager, Nasoavina project manager
Standing: Riphin nursery assistant, Eric nurseryman, Njara nursery assistant,
Fathima nursery assistant and Gervais assistant manager. Divana, who is missing
from the photo, also works as assistant in the nursery.

Transplantations in the restoration site started soon after the workshop and still continue. Monitoring will be done regularly. Learning from the encountered problems and improving skills is also important. Sharing challenges and successes of this work with other organisations in the future would be fruitful for all parties.

Photos: Hajanirina Razafimandimby, Ulla Aitakangas

Welcome to spend a night (or more) at the Mitsinjo-MDI Research Station

Mitsinjo has now more options to offer for staying overnight close to the nature. Those who prefer a bed to a sleeping bag and tent at the campsite, may find a room at the Research station of the Mad Dog Initiative (MDI) very suitable and affordable.

The station is a fruit of collaboration between the Mad Dog Initiative and Association Mitsinjo. The house is hidden by the forest, though it is only at a stone’s throw from Mitsinjo’s office. From May to July, the scientists and veterinarians need the station for their activities, but otherwise it is open to tourists and other visitors.

The station is a two-storey building with eight rooms for accommodation. Upstairs, there are two single rooms and five rooms for 1-3 persons. The other facilities on the 2nd floor include two toilets and two showers with hot water.

A single room

Examples of rooms for 1-3 persons

Downstairs, there are two toilets and one shower. There is also one single room and a large dining hall with a cosy corner.

The paintings on the wall were created by two young scientists who were volunteering
with the Mad Dog Initiative in Andasibe in 2022.

For further details, please see Ecotourism/Fees and prices.

Photos: Ulla Aitakangas

Protecting wetlands, protecting our future

The World Wetland Day was celebrated on 2 January 2023. In Madagascar, the national event took place in the Torotorofotsy Ramsar site in Andasibe. It was also the day for the official opening of the annual reforestation campaign in the Alaotra-Mangoro region. Thus, there were participants even from other parts of the country, invited by Asity, the manager of the Ramsar site. Representatives of associations and organisations working in the environmental sector had come to Torotorofotsy to do their share. In addition to Mrs Marie-Orléa VINA, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, many officials of the Ministry and of all other sectors of administration from national to local level were present, the Governor of the Alaotra-Mangoro region and the Member of Parliament of the Moramanga district included. Naturally, local inhabitants arrived in great numbers to participate in the planting, too.

At the request of the Ministry, Mitsinjo helped in the arrangements of the day. Our contribution was essential. Our Tontolo maitso project provided the 4000 seedlings planted during the event.

Moreover, our environmental education team had prepared program with a group of children from the public primary school of Menalamba. They presented sketches and poems about environmental issues. They also gave a theatre performance on deforestation and climate change. As usual, there were competitions especially for children and youth.

The text in the T-shirts declares: “For every child, a healthy environment”.

After the event in Torotorofotsy was over, there was a luncheon at Mitsinjo’s premises in Ankaizinina, Andasibe. 150 guests (representatives of organisations and administration) enjoyed the meal offered by the Ministry.

Photos: Iréne Toutoune RAMANANTENASOA, responsible for environmental education/Mitsinjo

The donation campaign of the Conservation Allies is going on

Would you give a Cristmas gift to Mitsinjo by making a donation through Conservation Allies or spread word about the campaign? It is not too late participate. There are still 8 days left.

We have used the donations from last year’s campaign for patrolling in two different areas, namely in the Analamazaotra Forest Station a.k.a Mitsinjo Park and in Torotorofotsy Ramsar site. In Torotorofotsy, we have patrolled together with Asity MADAGASCAR, the manager of the wetland.

You can make your donation here https://www.conservationallies.org/partner/mitsinjo/

Thank you!

It’s donation time

The World Lemur Day and the World Lemur Festival 2022 were celebrated during the past month of October in Madagascar and in many other countries. Various events to highlight the importance of protecting lemurs will also be organised in the weeks to come.

In support of the work done by their Malagasy partners, Conservation Allies are matching donations up to $10.000 each for Association Mitsinjo and 12 other member organisations of the Lemur Conservation Network through the end of the year.

In addition to 10 other lemur species, indris, diademed sifakas, black-and-white ruffed lemurs, greater bamboo lemurs – all four of them critically endangered species- are still living in and around Andasibe. It is thanks to the research done by our team that the greater bamboo lemur was rediscovered in 2007 in Torotorofotsy where it was thought extinct before.

Association Mitsinjo has always aimed at restoring and preserving the forests where it works, not only by patrolling but also by doing environmental education and implementing sustainable development projects. We are now continuing the monitoring of the greater bamboo lemur (Prolemur simus) and the black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata) in Torotorofotsy and in Ihofa, a wide forest north-east of the Ramsar site. The objective is that after four years of regular survey the number of all groups and individuals of the two species will be known. Monitoring will be done to keep track of the annual growth of the number of individuals and their behaviour will be observed. The habitat of the animals will also be monitored to see its quality and development.

Greater bamboo lemur

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Conservation Allies charges no overhead fees or administration costs
All donations made from the United states are fully tax-deductible

Thank you for the support!

C’mon let’s have some fun!

Eddy Christin MANATIJARA (left) and Dilifera MANANTSOAVINA (right), brothers filled with passion for tree climbing, have organised activities for tourists in the trees of Mitsinjo Park – Analamazaotra Forest Station since 2005, first with the Mad’Arbres climbing association, nowadays with their new company Gasyclimb.

You can climb a tree and observe the surrounding nature from the top or spend the whole night in a hammock admiring the stars and listening to the sounds of the forest. Before it is time to go to sleep, Eddy will play Malagasy music with his guitar and valiha, a traditional instrument to create a calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Now the company is building the first outdoor tree climbing adventure park in Madagascar in collaboration with the EnZpire Foundation and the Mitsinjo Association. In April 2021, the grounds were cleaned to make space for construction. The first parkour was operational seven months later at the beginning of December and was ready to receive climbers. The course of obstacles is suitable for visitors from children to the elderly. The writer of this post can confirm. She definitely is not in her twenties any more, but she succeeded in passing all the obstacles, though her visit in April 2022 was her first ever to an adventure park. A trained professional was looking after her all through the parkour.

You begin the course by walking on a tight rope that is followed by many different obstacles challenging your balance and the muscles of the middle body. If you want an experience of great speed, there is also a zipline you can glide on. The writer is afraid of high places, but she got over her fear and jumped from the platform. It was not terrible at all, could do it again!

Eddy helping a group of children to prepare for the adventure

In addition to offering tree climbing in Mitsinjo’s forest and activities in the Adventure Park where a parkour for adults is currently being built, Gasyclimb organises climbing tours in the east coast and west coast of Madagascar. They also climb trees all over Madagascar supporting research and filming projects on the tree canopy.

In the lush forests of the Masoala pensinsula in eastern Madagascar

 

 

 

 

 

The Alley of the Baobabs in western Madagascar near Morondava

 

 

 

 

Read more about Gasyclimb and their services on their website and in Facebook.

Contact information:
gasyclimb@gmail.com
tel. +261 34 56 110 13

Mitsinjo rainforest canopy

Photos: Gasyclimb

Learning the theory and practice of the utilisation of VAM with Mitsinjo

Dissemination of knowledge and sharing of experiences and best practices in forest restoration form an essential part of the Manondroala 2 project. A workshop on dry and humid forests had been organised by FANC and Association Manondroala in Mahajanga in October 2019. The next workshop had been planned for the year 2020, but because of the Covid-19 pandemic, it had to be cancelled. In last October, Association Manondroala and Mitsinjo could finally welcome participants to a three day training on Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM) and its utilisation in Andasibe.

The first day was dedicated to presentations. All participants introduced themselves and their organisations. Christin NASOAVINA, Mitsinjo’s president and the local coordinator of the Manondroala 2 project, welcomed the guests. He also told about the history of Mitsinjo as well as about the activities and achievements. Angela TARIMY, the national coordinator of the project, made a review of the Manondroala projects and shortly presented FANC’s objectives and activities. She gave basic information on Finland as well.

Guests and hosts

Most of our guests came from Mahajanga. They represented four organisations and other actors working in dry deciduous forests and mangroves of western Madagascar. The University of Mahajanga has a botanical garden for educational purposes at the campus where they have planted trees given by the Eden Reforestation Projects. This cooperation is one of the outcomes of networking as part of the Manondroala 2 project. The University also manages the dry forest of Mandravasarotra, an area of 47 ha in Antsanitia. 200 different plant species are growing there and the University is committed to protecting them.

The National Museum of Natural History of Paris (MNHN) and the Association Antrema Miray (AMI) comanage the Antrema biocultural site in Katsepy, Mahajanga. The surface area is 20660 ha including a marine reserve of 1000 ha. The site is also protected under the Ramsar convention. MNHN and AMI have various treatment methods of improving the germination of the seeds they are using for growing trees. In addition to restoration, the local Sakalava traditions promote the protection of environment. Mr Noery from Antrema Miray told us about a belief held by the Sakalava. They consider crowned sifakas (Propithecus coronatus) as representatives of their ancestors. Therefore these lemurs are sacred. It is fady (forbidden, taboo) to kill them.

The fourth organisation from Mahajanga was PAGEII/GIZ (Programme d’Appui à la Gestion de l’Environnement). They are implementing a program of sustainable exploitation of natural resources. They have already restored 800 ha of mangroves and 10 ha of landscape destroyed by mining activities. Acacia trees have been planted on 20 ha in the forest station of Marohoga. In last October, PAGEII/GIZ was preparing reforestation with honey plants and moringa. They were also planning management of cashew trees.

The workshop offered an opportunity to test the educational material
that Mitsinjo had prepared with help from FANC and Association Manondroala

Our guest from Antananarivo represented BNCCREDD+ (le Bureau National de Coordination du Changement Climatique, du Carbone et de la REDD+). Mr Ravoninjatovo showed us detailed figures of the development of Madagascar’s forest cover in 2000-2019. He also told about the plans for implementing REDD+ programs (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation) of carbon sequestration and trade.

Apart from Mitsinjo, two other actors from Andasibe participated in the workshop. One of them was V.O.I. MMA, an association formed by local guides. They manage a community park and have been collaborating with Mitsinjo for years. The other was a private initiative that has recently started working in Anevoka, a village situated about 9 km from Andasibe.

Every presentation engendered a lively conversation about the subject. Other participants were interested in knowing more and made a lot of questions.

In the afternoon, it was time to focus on the main theme of the workshop and begin the training. The floor was given to Youssouf, Mitsinjo’s VAM expert and restoration specialist. As most participants were unfamiliar with Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza, he explained first the differences between types of fungi and described the role of mycelium for the plants. The symbiosis formed by endomycorrhizal fungi with plants is profitable for both parties. In Mitsinjo’s nursery, the use of VAM has considerably increased the survival rate of seedlings. After having explained the theoretical basis of the Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza, Youssouf presented the process of VAM production step by step with the help of images. Precise practical instructions would be given during the next two days.

Youssouf explaining the significance of mycorrhiza

The following morning, the training continued at the expertise centre in Farahevitra. At first, it was the turn of the guests to give feedback on the previous day. They were very satisfied, but wanted to know even more. Thus, many questions were asked again. When the conversation was over, Angela presented the expertise trail created by Mitsinjo, explaining how the sites along the trail had been restored. The participants would see some sites later during the day. Before that, Youssouf introduced the tree nursery to them. They heard about the principles and methods Mitsinjo follows in restoration, beginning from the selection of the species to be grown. Youssouf also explained the purpose and functioning of the dry toilet standing in the nursery. The toilet was built during the Manondroala 1 project with the idea to promote improved sanitation in Andasibe by familiarising villagers with the use of toilet and by encouraging them to end open defecation. Secondly, it was planned that the composted excreta would be utilised as fertilizer in the nursery and the urine would have made a natural repellent against harmful insects. Because of unexpected events and adversities, Mitsinjo has not been able to realise the plan. During this year 2022, measures will be taken to secure the use of the toilet.

Our guests were very interested in the dry toilet

Feedback conversation at the expertise centre

From the nursery, the group moved to the nearest restored site on the trail, where Youssouf showed with the conservation team how to collect mycorrhiza for the production of VAM. Given the opportunity, several participants wanted to try themselves. Following the example, they looked for spots where to dig. The roots they unearthed were collected and saved for later use. After this practical exercise, the team led the way to three other restored sites that were relevant for the training. Nasoavina and Youssouf told about the history of each site as well as about the techniques used, lessons learnt and strategy for the future. The walk ended at Mitsinjo’s office where lunch was already waiting.

Looking for roots with mycorrhiza

Studying mushrooms with Nasoavina

After the break, the training was resumed in Farahevitra. First, the experiences of the morning were discussed. Next, the training proceeded to a practical exercise of VAM production. Mr Tamby from MNHN/AMI volunteered and performed the initial steps of the production. The nursery team had dug a hole for the purpose in one corner of the nursery. Mr Tamby lined the hole with plastic bags, added previously made VAM and fertile soil on the bottom, spread seeds of rice and beans that had been soaking in water for 24 hours and covered them with a layer of fertile soil. Then he watered the surface to make it moist and put straws on the top as protection against the sun and to keep the humidity. All the while, Youssouf observed the performance and explained to other participants who were taking notes and watching attentively.

The nursery team had also prepared other VAM holes to show different stages of the production. In one hole, rice and beans were growing leaves and mycorrhiza was visible among the roots. In the second hole, VAM was ready for the last step. The plants had been growing for three months, so it was time to cut them. Again, Mr Tamby made the exercise, now accompanied by Youssouf. Leaves and roots were cut into small pieces, put back into the hole with previously made VAM and covered with straws. After ten days, the new VAM would be ready for use.

The plastic bags prevent the roots of the growing
beans and rice from reaching the ground

The plants are ready to be cut

Another exercise dealt with the technique of using VAM in the planting of seedlings. Youssouf first explained and planted a seedling into a plastic pot. Mr Tamby followed his example. The other participants were watching with interest. A long conversation ensued, going on until hot drinks and pastry were served to finish the day.

A recapitulation made by Angela opened the training on the third morning. Youssouf had a feedback conversation with the participants about the previous day. During the conversation, a journalist from the National Television of Madagascar (TVM) interviewed Angela and Nasoavina as well as the representatives of the University of Mahajanga, Prof. Vololomboahangy RANDRIANJAFY and Dr Botovao Auguste RAMIANDRISOA. The journalist had joined us in the morning and documented on video what was happening in Farahevitra. After the feedback, Youssouf presented the three VAM holes to the camera. The seeds that had been sown the day before showed already signs of germination.

Angela is being interviewed

Youssouf presenting the hole with cut leaves and roots

There was still one exercise. Together with Mr Tamby, Ms Baomelina from AMI and Mr Ramiandrisoa, Youssouf gave a demonstration of the plantation of seedlings in plastic pots. They would be later moved to a seedbed to continue their growth. To leave a memory of the training, participants then moved to plant other seedlings on the nearest restoration site. The journalist recorded the planting event before leaving us. Parts of the day’s video were broadcasted by TVM News on October 19, 2021.

The workshop continued at Mitsinjo’s office. Angela wrote down the plans the participants had for utilising the VAM technique and for sharing their experiences. Lastly, the guests were asked to evaluate the training and the general organisation of the workshop. The answers were flattering. The participants were very satisfied with everything. Distribution of certificates officially ended the workshop.

Exercise of the use of VAM

Making memories

However, there was still program for the afternoon. Our guests had expressed a wish to see Mitsinjo’s activities in Torotorofotsy. Thus, two cars took us to Menalamba, where Mitsinjo has a building for local meetings and other gatherings. From Menalamba we walked to Maromahatsinjo, a nearby hamlet with a view to the Torotorofotsy wetland. Our hosts told about the threats the area is facing and Mitsinjo’s work to save and protect it. After the visit, we took the road back towards Andasibe. On the way, we stopped at the tree nursery in Sahaparasy to have a look at the seedlings and learn about the activities from Youssouf. Then it was time to return and have dinner. It was already dark as we arrived. The day had been long but very interesting.

The core of the Torotorofotsy wetland lies behind the rice fields

At Sahaparasy tree nursery

Photos: Ulla Aitakangas

Originally published in the Manondroala blog of the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation – FANC

Help us protect biological diversity

If you have ever considered donating to Association Mitsinjo, now is the right time to do it. Conservation Allies will match donations made through the end of the year. Conservation Allies also offers a platform to make safe and easy US tax-deductible donations.

Give today and double your impact!

Would you help us to protect this Indri and its habitat?

The funds will be used for continuing patrolling in the forest to reduce the human impact caused by illicit activities such as tree cutting or collection of firewood. Many people who stayed away from the protected areas before the Covid-19 pandemic, have returned to their old habits. With the disappearance of tourists, forests were left empty and quiet and the risk of getting caught in the act decreased. Consequently, Mitsinjo has taken steps to stop the negative trend.

The diademed sifaka (Propithecus diadema) has come back to Mitsinjo Park

The patrols watch for traces of fire to prevent wildfires. Our teams also monitor, if there are people who set traps for the animals. By frequent and regular patrolling, Mitsinjo aims to prevent these people from entering the protected area and to secure the survival of the lemur populations and the preservation of their home.

Donate here

Thank you for your support!

A male paradise flycatcher in its nest

Sharing know-how – Mitsinjo has published a guidebook on environmental education

Praises were heard at Mitsinjo’s office in last January. Invited by the association, the representatives of the school authorities and local primary schools had arrived to listen to the presentation of the new manual.

The event was opened by Mitsinjo’s president Christin NASOAVINA
and Irène Toutoune RAMANANTENASOA, our environmental education manager

After the speeches of the hosts, the floor was given to the guests. Their general opinion was very positive. They said that environmental education has had a great impact on children who have attended the classes. A year after, in the 5^th grade, these children are more knowledgeable than their classmates in certain subjects such as natural science, geography and civic education. This has helped teachers in implementing the curriculum. They have discovered new things even themselves. They also told that the classroom of the 5^th grade is the cleanest. Thanks to having learnt about hygiene in environmental education, the pupils pay more attention to cleanliness than others and some children are willing to share their know-how, for example how to recycle plastic waste.

The manager of the environmental department of the Moramanga school district, his deputy and the director of the educational administration zone of Andasibe were representing the school authorities.

From primary schools, Mitsinjo had invited the school directors and the teachers of the 4^th grade

Mitsinjo has been doing environmental education for a long time. At first, it consisted of raising awareness and sensitising people to environmental issues at occasional events held in Andasibe like the annual World Environment Day. There were also projects related to health, development and agriculture that included environmental education and were carried out in cooperation with different partners.

Collaboration with the educational authorities and primary schools started in 2012. Elsie Black, a Peace Corps volunteer created the program for environmental education and helped Mitsinjo to get funding for the activity. The education team estimated that the pupils of the 4^th grade (CM1 in the Malagasy school system) would be the most suitable group for receiving instruction. They were old enough to understand what was being talked about, but they did not have the pressures of their schoolmates in the 5^th grade (CM2) who were busy preparing for the final exam of the primary school (CEPE – Certificat d’Études Primaires et Élementaires). The first children had classes in environmental education during the school year 2012-2013.

In 2015-2020, environmental education was part of the Torotorofotsy project financed by the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation – FANC. To help schools and teachers continue the work on their own after the end of the project, Mitsinjo’s environmental education team and FANC prepared a manual. It is based on the classroom instruction given by the team, containing lessons and exercises about the meaning of the word “environment”, animals and forest, water cycle, climate change, waste management, to name a few. The book even gives instructions how to set up a school garden. During the project, our team assisted schools in creating vegetable gardens that have been tended by the children and teachers.

Besides guidebooks, the school representatives received tools for gardening.

The guests were very satisfied with the book. The teachers said they would need it. It will support them in their work. The book will be first put to use in the schools of the educational administration zone of Andasibe, but the environmental department of the Moramanga school district would also like to share information about the manual to the teachers of the district. The manager of the department asked, whether the school district could take copies of the book. Mitsinjo and FANC consented to the request. If copying will make the manual better known and promote its use in schools, then it is acceptable.

We also want to share the guidebook here. Naturally, it is written in Malagasy, but we hope it will still find readers.

Photos: Irène Toutoune Ramanantenasoa, Ulla Aitakangas

Earth Day at Mitsinjo

By Emily Schimpfle of Projects Abroad

This past week Projects Abroad and Association Mitsinjo teamed together to celebrate the 46th Anniversary of Earth Day.  We organized 6 different activities for one class of 74 children at the local primary school.  This included tree climbing, crafting, environmental education, sports, games, and a movie.  We also had a big meal with the children at the end of the long day.

The parade to the forest!

Craft time!

The Earth Day participants from Andasibe’s EPP Primary School

So, with 6 volunteers, 5 teachers, and an assortment of other staff we started the day at the school in a parade with the children to Mitsinjo.  Once we arrived at the office and forest reserve, the kids were divided into 6 groups and the festivities began.  While the day didn’t go exactly as planned, we could tell the kids had a blast. It was their first field trip like this ever.  Everyone was able to make a musical instrument with used plastic bottles or bottle caps.  The kids flew down on a small zip line made especially for them with Mitsinjo partners Gasy Climb.  They learned about the importance of picking up trash and drinking clean water.  They were also able to let out some energy through sports and games at the national park.

At the end of the activities while we waited for food the children drew Earth Day related pictures.  To say we were all amazed at how talented they are at drawing is an understatement.  Kids drew things from flowers to lemurs to people.  Once the food was ready to be served everyone created a line waiting for the rice, beans and zebu.  We had bought 24 Kilos of rice thinking it may not be enough but in the end everyone had two servings.  After a full meal and some dancing the day came to an end with a walk back to the school.  While it was an exhausting day for everyone, it is one we will always remember.