Forest reserve under threat

Forest reserve under threat

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: An official warned here yesterday that
gold panning, logging and massive sand quarrying were endangering
the one-million hectare Mt. Cycloop's forest reserve.

The head of the provincial forestry and plantation office,
Sudjud, said that unless drastic and immediate steps were taken
to stop the practices, the rich diversity of flora and fauna in
the Sentani subdistrict would be severely affected.

"Many locals cut down trees for firewood and charcoal," he was
quoted by Antara as saying.

He said forest rangers often found locals illegally quarrying
large quantities of sand and gravel to sell to building
contractors.

The reserve is also very important because it serves as a
source of drinking water for local residents.