Training the Trainers in Ecological Mangrove Restoration
Location: Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India
Date: November 2005
Goal: To equip 20 participants from across India with the knowledge and practical skills needed to train others in community-based ecological mangrove restoration using a hydrological approach
Partners: Coastal Community Development Programme (CCDP)
Partners
Coastal Community Development Programme (CCDP)
The Christensen Fund
Cottonwood Foundation
Global Greengrants Fund (GCF)
IUCN: Nederland (Tropical Rainforest Program)
Interchurch Organization for Development Cooperation (ICCO)
Strong emphasis on natural succession, local ecology, and equal community involvement in restoration work
Field visits gave participants real-world insight into mangrove ecology and community-led restoration
The training focused on hydrology-driven restoration as a low-cost, sustainable alternative to conventional planting techniques
What we did
A six-day workshop co-organised by the Mangrove Action Project (MAP) and the Coastal Community Development Programme (CCDP) brought together over 20 participants from across India to be trained as trainers in ecological mangrove restoration. Held at DV Manor Hotel with field excursions to mangrove forests and restoration sites, the workshop focused on the hydrological method of mangrove restoration, emphasising low-cost, nature-based approaches that align with local ecological conditions. Participants learned how factors like topography, freshwater flow, and soil type influence restoration success, and were introduced to the concept of zonation to guide species selection and site planning. The programme combined classroom sessions with site visits that illustrated key restoration principles, including tidal dynamics, trenching methods, and nursery practices.
Guest speakers addressed challenges specific to India, including mangrove degradation from salt panning, livestock grazing, and reduced freshwater flow. A strong theme throughout the workshop was the value of community participation. This was highlighted during a visit to Polatithippa village, where residents shared how they have been actively involved in mangrove conservation and restoration activities such as nursery work, canal digging, and planting. Local people carry out all the work, with equal pay for women and men, and insurance coverage provided to all labourers. In group discussions, participants explored mangrove education, sustainable products derived from mangroves, and strategies for securing restoration funding. The workshop also encouraged ongoing knowledge sharing, with a commitment from participants to hold community meetings in their local areas after returning home.
“Great... The training was very much technical and practical, I like to participate in this kind of trainings more and more. Definitely, it is going to provide an opportunity to restore the ecology and to conserve the coastal habitat”. Mr. Vivek Sadanand Kulkarni, training participant
Interested in working with us?
Get in touch with us at dominic@mangroveactionproject.org
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