Mangrove resource assessment through participatory mapping

Abstract

Mangroves are one of the most productive ecosystems which provide aquatic biodiversity conservation, infrastructure protection, livelihood support, climate change mitigation, and adaptation. Due to these services, this unique ecosystem is considered as a biological hotspot but they are in a declining state. For the conservation and management of this ecosystem, assessment of resource use and ecosystem services with the involvement of the local community are essential. The local community are the primary resource users and the chance of exploitation is higher from them, but on the other side, they are the one who plays a major role in the conservation process. The most effective management of resources is possible only with the involvement of the local community. In this study, the resource assessment of mangroves in the Thrissur district of Kerala has been done with the involvement of the local community. A total of four villages have been done. A total of four villages have been selected, two from each the north and south region of the district. Participatory coastal resource assessment (PCRA) tools have been used in this study to compact the local knowledge, resource use, and experience for the management of mangrove resources. Participatory resource mapping exercise, transect walk, and assessment of ecosystem services with the local community have been done. Historical change of mangrove patches with the help of Google Earth also assessed. This study will be helpful for community-based mangrove management to support local and regional decision-making processes.