Ex situ conservation of keystone plant species with sufficient genetic variability
MSSBG distributed more than two lakh saplings of 200 RET species to different ex-situ conservation sites in and around Wayanad. Through the monitoring sites MSSBG noticed the keystone species aid to elevate the water table, increase the soil humus, soil fertility, home for many endemic birds, butterflies and other biological diversity. MSSRF is one of the supporting institute assist Government of Kerala to achieve the objective to neutralize the atmospheric carbon through a project on ‘Carbon sequestration Wayanad’.
In situ conservation in partnership with Forest Department
Biodiversity conservation programme of MSSBG extended the area of the RET species conservation through a partnership programme with Forest Department of Kerala. We have selected disturbed areas of evergreen/semi evergreen patch in the districts of Wayanad and Kozhikode for conservation programmes and planted more than 10000 saplings of 100 species with a continuous monitoring system.
On farm conservation with farmers
MSSBG has a long tradition of engaging in the studies and conservation of rare and keystone species of Western Ghats. In situ on farm conservation approach is key for the sustenance of these activities. With this insight we developed or promoted hundreds of satellite gardens across Malabar eco region in which the farmers cultivate or conserve this dyeing wealth. Through this approach not only the conservation of biodiversity is ensured but also the transfer of knowledge on these species is promoted. Plants like wild or underutilized tubers RET medicinal trees, shade trees etc promoted in farmers plots through this programme.