Environmental policy and administrative management

Sarcelles covers the coastal tip of a complex wetlands unit with a multitude of ponds and marshes of varied salinity. The hydrology peculiarity coming from the network of tunnels accounts for the presence of springs along the coast (Bras D`eau) and wide marshes and shallow depressions (Mare Sarcelles). The micro landforms account for the varied micro habitats and the very high endemism in the fauna and flora. Sarcelles has just been declared national reserve because of the interesting features as well as the high percentage of endemism and could be recognized as a Ramsar site. Serious threats have been identified to this unique wetlands biodiversity. The various visits carried on site show that poaching and degradation by pollution is such that irreversible damages will be reached soon whereby all the present biodiversity found thereon could be lost. The NGO has therefore thought it important to start a community-led inventory and conservation project to sensitize on the need to protect wetlands biodiversity and then to initiate a community-run management conservation of that unique biotope in collaboration with the National Parks and Conservation Services and the Forestry Services. The project will be based on Ramsar`s criteria of wise use and therefore will be substantiated through a revival of local crafts and arts and wise use activities.

Mauritius