Minahasa, North Sulawesi (Contains 1st PT Newmont Project)
Minahasa Marine Habitat Enhancement Programs Unsustainable fishing have resulted in degradation of reefs in the coastal region of North Sulawesi. Harvesting of mangroves for construction materials has also resulted in significant degradation of this important fish nursery and feeding habitat. Consist of two programs, reef ball development and mangrove rehabilitation; Minahasa Marine Habitat Enhancement Programs has succeeded in enhancing community environmental awareness. A reef ball project was developed which included developing the molds for and building the concrete reef structures. The purpose of the reef ball is to increase the number of fish thus to improve livelihood for local fishermen. Mangrove rehabilitation has succeeded in replanting about 5 ha area involving local communities, local NGOs and local university.
Unsustainable fishing practices (principally poisoning and bombing) have resulted in degradation of reefs in the coastal region of North Sulawesi. Harvesting of mangroves for construction materials has also resulted in significant degradation of this important fish nursery and feeding habitat.
Newmont Mining Corporation operates the Minahasa Gold Mine in North Sulawesi, Republic of Indonesia. Working with local communities and partners, Newmont has developed and is currently implementing the Marine Habitat Enhancement Program as a part of the Integrated Sustainable Development Program for the local area. Two key elements of this program are the Reef Ball (development of artificial reefs) and Mangrove Rehabilitation projects. The Reef Ball Project is the largest of its kind conducted by the private sector to date. These projects are being conducted in conjunction with micro-financing and training programs for local fishermen and women and other coastal conservation programs such as the Water Police and the Coastal Clean-up programs.
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