Environmental Skill Development

As part of the Taloja Hill Reforestation Project, we conducted a comprehensive four-weekend naturalist training programme for local volunteers. This was primarily good for environmental skill development of the community. We selected 25 participants to join this initiative, focusing on the unique biodiversity of Taloja Hill. This environmental training is apt for anyone who wishes to dabble in this field without a science background. The training consisted of two key sessions: 

1. Nature Trail: In the first session, participants embarked on a guided nature trail on Taloja Hill. This hands-on experience allowed them to observe and learn about the diverse flora and fauna directly in their natural habitat. They gained practical knowledge about local plant and animal species, ecosystem interactions, and the importance of preserving this biodiversity.

2. Virtual Lecture on Biodiversity: The second session was a virtual lecture that delved deeper into the concepts of biodiversity. This lecture covered various topics such as species identification, ecological significance, and conservation strategies. It provided a theoretical framework to complement the practical experiences from the nature trail.

Throughout the program, participants engaged in interactive discussions, received educational materials, and participated in activities designed to enhance their understanding and observational skills. 

At the conclusion of the training, each participant was awarded a certificate of completion and a field kit to support their future efforts as naturalists. This comprehensive training not only educated the volunteers about the ecological value of Taloja Hill but also equipped them with the tools and knowledge to contribute effectively to ongoing reforestation and conservation efforts.

As part of the Ambivli Biodiversity Park Project, we hosted a detailed four-weekend naturalist training programme for local volunteers. This is an excellent way of environmental skill development of the community. We selected 25 participants for this initiative, which emphasized the unique biodiversity of Ambivli Biodiversity Park. This environmental training is apt for anyone who wishes to dabble in this field without a science background. The training featured two main sessions:

1. Nature Trail: In this session, participants joined a guided nature trail within Ambivli Biodiversity Park. This hands-on experience enabled them to observe and learn about the diverse flora and fauna in their natural environment. They gained practical insights into local plant and animal species, ecosystem dynamics, and the importance of biodiversity conservation.

2. Virtual Lecture on Biodiversity: The second session was a virtual lecture that provided a deeper understanding of biodiversity concepts. Topics covered included species identification, ecological significance, and conservation strategies, offering a theoretical foundation to complement the practical experience from the nature trail.

Throughout the program, participants explored the three nature trails developed during the project, including trail signs and exhibits. They engaged with activity stations featuring bingo activities and learned about setting up wildlife installations. Interactive discussions, educational materials, and various activities further enhanced their observational skills and knowledge.

Upon completing the training, each participant received a certificate of completion and a field kit to aid their future work as naturalists. This comprehensive training not only educated the volunteers about the ecological importance of Ambivli Biodiversity Park but also equipped them with the tools and knowledge needed to support ongoing conservation efforts.

1.  Capacity Development Programme for Forest Personnel(November 2015 and February 2016.): We facilitated two comprehensive environmental training sessions focusing on Landscape Management and Eco-Tourism/Wildlife Management and Conservation. Held at the Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun, these programmes spanned two weeks each and were tailored for forest department officials. This was excellent opportunity for environmental skill development. These sessions aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of forest personnel, addressing both landscape management and sustainable tourism practices. The training was conducted under the client mandate of Training for Technology Transfer. 

Lepidoptera Training Programme for Forest Guards ( 3-7 October, 2015): We organized a specialized four-day environmental training programme dedicated to Lepidoptera (butterfly) monitoring for forest guards. This training, conducted at the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, equipped participants with essential skills for butterfly identification and conservation. Hosted by the Kerala Forest Department,  and was designed to support the effective management of butterfly populations within the sanctuary. This was excellent way for environmental skill development of local staff.