Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, in collaboration with the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP) and the Arbor Day Foundation, planted its six-millionth tree while working to reconnect the fragmented forests of Madagascar, home to the world’s most threatened group of primates: lemurs.
Deforestation is one of the greatest threats to all of Madagascar’s remaining lemur species.
Kianjavato, a community in southeastern Madagascar, is the primary site for the reforestation efforts. A variety of native trees are planted to support the growth of healthy lemur populations, such as the critically endangered black and white ruffed lemur, which can be seen at Hubbard Expedition Madagascar at the Zoo.
These lemurs consume large quantities of fruit and naturally benefit forest regrowth as they disperse seeds. The seeds of many tree species germinate very quickly after passing through the lemur’s digestive system. After the seeds have passed, the lemur poo is collected as a seed source for replanting.
Trees are also planted to provide resources for the community, such as firewood and timber for building homes. MBP supports more than 180 full-time Malagasy employees as field assistants, project supervisors, office employees, horticulturists and supporting field personnel.
The project was initiated in 2012. Its success is made possible by the local people, who help plant more than 18,000 trees a week at events organized by MBP employees. In a year’s time, more than 1,000 people may volunteer.
In the first five years of the project, MBP planted one million trees. In April 2022, the team planted its five-millionth tree and 13 months later, reached its six-millionth tree. Now, MBP has a new goal of planting one million trees each year.
