The agricultural development in Taveuni is increasingly conflicting with efforts to preserve its natural environment. As farming activities related to dalo and yaqona expand into the Taveuni Forest Reserve and the Ravilevu Nature Reserve, essential ecosystem services from these natural areas are being compromised, significantly impacting watershed protection and potentially leading to a crisis for the island.
The reserves, defined by the Blue Line boundary, comprise Fiji’s largest protected areas. The Taveuni Forest Reserve, established in 1914, spans 11,291 hectares, while the Ravilevu Nature Reserve, created in 1959, covers 4,019 hectares. Additionally, the Bouma National Heritage Park, which was established in 1991, also contributes to conservation efforts aimed at preserving biodiversity and forest ecosystems.
However, farmers are moving further inland, lured by the prospect of better soil fertility, leading to illegal clearing of parts of the reserves. This encroachment has resulted in the loss of forest cover in critical water catchment areas, causing districts like Vuna to experience dried-up streams.
Maleli Nakasava, a senior official from the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, stated that illegal farming within the reserves is evident in the Vuna district, where two creeks have become dry. Nakasava emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, warning that if the trend continues, other areas of Taveuni could also suffer similar fates. Efforts to remove those farming within the reserves are complicated by the need to consider people’s livelihoods; although many farmers have been warned and given time to relocate.
Freshwater ecosystems, including Lake Tagimoucia—an important tourist destination—are also at risk. The lake, rising 800 meters above sea level in the Wainikeli district, is surrounded by rich biodiversity and rare plant species, such as the endemic Tagimoucia flower. A 2020 report indicated that satellite imagery revealed a decrease in the lake levels and wetland vegetation following drought conditions exacerbated by Tropical Cyclone Winston.
The challenges of climate change compound the issues of unsustainable land use on the island, making it difficult to balance economic development and environmental conservation. Nakasava further pointed out that the potential drying up of Lake Tagimoucia would adversely affect tourism and local incomes, given its significance to the island’s economy.
Ram Sidal, chairman of the Taveuni Advisory Council for Delaivuna farmers, noted that many farmers from outside Taveuni prioritize income over the importance of the reserves, contrasting with local farmers who better understand and adhere to conservation protocols.
Community consensus emphasizes the necessity of protecting the reserves to enhance resilience against climate change. Farmer Silas Reddy advocated for solutions that benefit both the environment and agricultural livelihoods, suggesting the introduction of crops that continue to yield after harvest for consistent cash flow.
Some farmers remain unaware of the exact locations of the Blue Line boundary due to the damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Winston, leading to the disappearance of physical markers. The Ministry of Fisheries and Forests has repositioned forest wardens to monitor these boundaries and raise awareness of the importance of conservation.
Maravu Ligani, a local forest warden, lamented the damage caused by illegal clearing, highlighting the lingering impacts of TC Winston and the use of harmful chemicals in agricultural practices. He emphasized the necessity of community education regarding the importance of preserving the native forest cover.
The Ministry plans to recruit more forest wardens to enhance their capabilities and ensure consistent monitoring of the reserves. These wardens engage the community in education about harvesting limits, environmental standards, and conservation efforts.
Nakasava mentioned the collaboration with various authorities to enforce the Forest Act and introduce agroforestry concepts in buffer zones before the Blue Line, aiming to protect the reserves while allowing sustainable agricultural practices. The PEBACC+ project seeks to reinforce ecosystems, economies, and communities against climate change impacts, focusing on agroforestry and reforestation in vital water catchment areas.
The project has already seen significant progress in community engagement, completing reforestation in 30 hectares across 13 communities while fostering the development of organic farming practices. Funded by several international donors, this initiative aims to implement an Ecosystem-based Adaptation approach across multiple Pacific nations.