Inventory and characterization of the mangrove's state of health

The various objectives of the Touho commune's environmental management plan are to inventory and map the floristic diversity of mangrove species throughout the commune, and to identify degraded mangroves. To this end, members of the Hô-üt association were trained in the identification of mangrove and back mangrove plant species, as well as in inventory techniques and the characterization of mangrove health. Field surveys consisted of recording a GPS point approximately every 50 meters within the Touho mangrove. At each point, participants made a 360° turn, noted all the plant species present, and characterized the state of health of the mangrove. The completed field sheets were then entered into the computer before being transferred to the consulting firm in charge of mapping. The latter then produced and delivered maps showing the distribution of mangrove species and their state of health, after GIS processing. The Hô-üt association then organized the presentation of this work to the customary authorities, the local population and the departments of the North Province.

  • Involvement of the local population in mangrove surveys around their homes.
  • The support of the Department of Economic Development and the Environment for field surveys and the provision of GPS.
  • The support of the traditional authorities in conveying the project's message to the Touho tribes, which facilitated its acceptance.
  • The autonomy of association members to ensure reliable data collection.
  • Training in inventory and characterization techniques and GPS use.
  • Make sure you spend enough time in the mangroves with an identification guide to familiarize yourself with the species.
  • Make sure you have enough GPS units.
  • Encourage the formation of teams in pairs, comprising an "expert" who has undergone training, and a novice who can be trained in this way.
  • Ensure that the field survey protocol is followed to guarantee data reliability.
  • Ensure that field data is entered on a daily basis.
  • Present the data in spreadsheet form to facilitate the work of the design office.
  • Do not hesitate to ask the design office for corrections to maps.