Fiji Pine Limited is making strides to develop Navosa into a fully established pine base as part of their efforts to enhance and expand the newly created forest station. The Navosa Pine Station was officially introduced in January, resulting from a partnership among village elders, the Ministry of Forestry, Police, and Fiji Pine Limited, aimed at promoting pine planting and reducing marijuana cultivation in the region.
Josaia Ratatagia, the officer in charge at the Navosa station, reported that a significant pine restocking initiative is underway with the support of officers from Nabou Forest. George Young, the Nabou station officer in charge, indicated that his team would collaborate with the Navosa group to meet their planting goals.
“We have set a target to plant on 88 hectares,” stated Mr. Young. Senior managers from both Nabou and Navosa have devised a strategic plan for the major restocking project, which includes dispatching three planting teams from Nasovotava, Nabou, and Vagadra to Navosa next week. This contingent will augment the existing two teams already working in Navosa to enhance the area’s restocking capabilities and workforce.
“We only have two weeks to accomplish our target, so we must be adaptable to the timing and prevailing weather conditions. Additionally, we will provide corrugated iron roofing and other camping supplies to support the three teams in Navosa,” he added. Prior to the arrival of the pine restocking teams, Mr. Ratatagia and his crew completed road maintenance in preparation for their deployment.