Above: The photograph in 2004 shows cattle grazing hillsides before reforestation began in 2004 / Below: In 2010 the hillsides have been reforested and the wetlands recreated / Photo © REGUA
The Success is from the Reserva Ecologica De Guapi Assu (REGUA), Brazil, a small nature reserve not farm from Rio de Janeiro. A report suggests that as many as 60’000 trees have been planted to help pump CO2 from the atmosphere.
The restored wetland habitat is also a success story in terms of increased biodiversity. It has been colonised by an impressive range of plants and aquatic species, including significant increases in Capybara and Caiman.
This is in stark contrast to 2003, before work began, when the land was primarily used for grazing livestock and of little biodiversity value.
REGUA offers opportunities for research, attracts nature tourists and visitors from among the local communities. It also protects the Guapiaçu watershed, and reduces threats from grassland fires, as well as enhancing the natural beauty of the area.
Part of the reserve in 2002 before restoration work had begun and after the land had been turned to pasture.
The same scene in 2008, just three years after the wetlands were restored. You can just see the Lodge in the background.
Without doubt the restoration has been a huge success for the reserve.
