Indonesian Conservation
The atmosphere in the mangrove forest of Werifi Village, Etna District, Kaimana, West Papua, that day seemed different than usual. The forest, often called "...mange-mange" by the local community, it suddenly became crowded. Several people were seen walking along the rows of mangrove trees, struggling to navigate the slippery mud between the sharp roots.
People from the Regional Public Service Agency Regional Technical Implementation Unit (BLUD UPTD) for the Management of the Kaimana Marine Conservation Area, Indonesian Conservation, and the local community together conducted a biophysical survey team of the mangrove ecosystem in the area.
Samuel Werbay, one of the community representatives on the team, appeared to maintain his enthusiasm throughout the survey. He admitted he had never participated in a forest survey before.
"Kitong (we) usually pass by mange-mange but use a boat when the water rises, tra bajalan bagitu (it didn't work out that way). It turns out there's more to it than meets the eye. we see (we see) and taste. Especially him pu (have) fresher air e,” said Simon.
"Kitong (we) also exist redefining (love) enter the pipe measuring 2,5 inches deep pece mangemange (mangrove mud) continue us (we) take he pu pece (he's muddy), then we cash (we give) it into plastic. That will be later Dong (they) take it to the lab to Dong (they) look at him pu (has) various contents, including carbon content," Simon continued, telling the story of what the survey team did.
Simon's first time participating in a survey of a mangrove ecosystem brought him many new experiences, from counting tree rings to observing tree species to collecting soil samples. All of these new experiences provided him with knowledge and understanding of mangrove ecosystems and various survey methods.
Furthermore, he admitted to realizing the importance of better understanding the natural resources around him. He believes that when you look deeper, nature's role in human well-being becomes clearer. Through mangroves, he realized that this ecosystem provides more than just fish and food.
Simon directly experienced the benefits of mangroves, their crucial role in mitigating disaster threats and ensuring clean air. He already possessed a wealth of local wisdom-based knowledge. However, he admitted that this science-based experience made perfect sense and gave him a new awareness.
"Sa (I) participated in this activity to, sa (I) came to know that this mange-mange pu (mangroves have) There are many benefits. In addition, sa (I) came to know that in Kaimana, mange-mange (mangrove) is still good and mange-mange right here. between (not) anywhere else. Sa (I'm) proud," said Simon.
Simon said that currently, some people still cut down mangroves for firewood and building materials. The most frequently cut species are Ceriops tagal or called mange-mange red by local communities. Extraction of this type of wood is commonplace given the abundant resources.
People tend to use firewood in areas near road access for easier transportation. This species is preferred for firewood because it produces excellent embers and lasts longer than other types. mange-mange Adult red for household firewood can be used for 1-2 months.
However, Simon believes that utilization must still be regulated. If left unchecked, all mangroves could be wiped out. He believes that if managed sustainably, communities can still utilize the resources without worrying about depletion. This control must involve multiple parties, including the community, village government, and conservation area managers.
"The main thing is to, sa (I am) very grateful because sa su (I have been) invited to join this activity. I did have time too sa (I'm) so tired, but because this is something new, sa (I'm) enthusiastic. With lots of new knowledge sa (I) know now, sa (I see mange-mange itu between (not) the same anymore sa (I) will see first. Sa (I) think I know this stuff much better now, so sa lebe (I would) love it if he disappeared from this place. Sa (I) want all people to understand more. Sa (I also like redefining (give) people information about new knowledge sa (I) can, so that Dong (they) can also care more,” Simon concluded.
