Reforestation Program in Takalar, Indonesia

Local farmers in Laikang – a village in the regency of Takalar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia – cut trees without replanting, making the lands unproductive. Hence, LPTM cooperated with the Rotary Club of Makassar to initiate reforestation and introduce the method of Tree Farming and Agroforestry to the farmers, with the goal of providing them with sustainable income while preserving the environment. People plant Bitti trees, a local species in Sulawesi. Its wood is the main material in building the Pinisi Perahu, a traditional wooden boat of the Buginese people. This industry is an old tradition and a cultural heritage that still exists today. Conserving the trees will help sustain the income of the local people and help preserve their cultural heritage. Volunteers stay with villagers and help plant Bitti trees. They attend intensive Indonesian language training to help them communicate with the locals and make their stay more enjoyable. Participants who prefer to stay in the city can help in the tree nursery in Makassar. After training, volunteers remain in the program for 3 days or longer. Then, they return to Makassar for about a week to report and consult with the staff.