Encroachers threaten Cape Three Points forest reserve

The Cape Three Points Forest Reserve classified as a significant biodiversity area is under threat from encroachers.

The encroachers have been felling trees and hunting for various animal species from the forest.

Mr Daniel Arthur, a member of the Community Biodiversity Advisory Group (CBAG) said this to the GNA when Coastal Resources Centre, through the Forestry Services Division, presented 43 pairs of Wellington boots and cutlasses to the CBAG at Akwidae, in the Ahanta West District of the Western Region.

Mr Arthur said they often hear reports of encroachment at some parts of the reserve but due to logistical constraints, before they reach the scene, the encroachers would have escaped with their booty.

He said the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve boasts of different species of monkeys, birds, butterflies, flowery plants amongst others some of which are extinct in other parts of the world.

Mr Arthur appealed to corporate organizations in the country to support them with logistics and financial support in order to effectively patrol the reserve.

Mrs Lucy Amoh Ntim, the District Manager of Forestry Service Division of the Forestry Commission, said the donation shows the commitment of the CRC and FC in protecting the Cape Three Points forest reserve.

She appealed to the forest fringe communities and existing community based organizations that engage in forest conservation to collaborate and support Forestry Commission to protect the reserve.

Source: GNA