The Pacific Adaptation for Climate Change Project Samoa in collaboration with the Forestry Division held replanting programs for the villages of Lefagaoalii and Lalomalava on May 27th 2011.
The activities are part of the implementation of the Integrated Coastal Protection Mechanism under the PACC Project, comprising of coastal infrastructures and soft measures such as replanting coastal species of plants to form a natural barrier, to protect the coastline and to adapt to the continuous impacts of coastal erosion as a result of the changing climate.
PACC Samoa National Coordinator Moira Faletutulu said the replanting initiative is one of the most favoured and proven long term measures of rehabilitating and stabilising our coastal areas from the impacts of continuous erosion.
"The initiative was well attended by members of the community who were eager to continue this replanting initiative. They have also asked our Forestry Division to supply more seedlings so they can continue on their own."
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment CEO, Taule'ale'ausumai Laavasa Malua in his opening address stressed the importance of the ministry and the communities in working together for such initiatives which benefit the community.
He conveyed gratitude to the community of Leafagaoalii for taking the lead in the replanting effort which is now seen along the new infrastructure.
Added to the initiative was a presentation from the Principal Forestry Officer, Sooalo Tito Alatimu speaking to the community and officials present the importance of having a natural barrier along the coast to act as a defence mechanism during severe weather periods and natural disasters, as well as adaptation to the impacts of climate change.
The community was provided a list of appropriate coastal plant species such as 'fau' Beach Hibiscus, 'milo' Pacific Rosewood, 'ifi' Tahitian Chestnut, 'niu' Coconut trees and 'talie' Tropical Almond, and information on the maintenance of these plants to ensure its survival and its effectiveness in protecting the coastal areas.
Plans are underway under the PACC Project for the next replanting program in the Tafitoala village on Upolu during the final week of July.