The Code of Practice for

Mangrove Harvesting

March 2011
Owen Bovell
Mangrove Specialist
Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project

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This publication has been produced with the assistance from the European Union. The contents
of this publication are the sole responsibility of the Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project
(GMRP) and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

A great number of persons and organisations contributed to the development of the Code of
Practice for Mangrove Harvesting. I gratefully acknowledge the support of the coastal
fishermen, the burnt brick producers of Berbice, the past and present mangrove bark harvesters
of Barima, Imbatero, Morrawhanna and Aruka and the honey producers in Region 4. The Code
was developed with over two years of inputs from stakeholders, with maximum effort to involve
as many interested organisations and individuals as possible. Other codes of forest harvesting
and timber harvesting practices from around the world were reviewed during the development of
this Code. This includes the FAO Model Code of Forest Harvesting Practice and the ILO Code
of Practice on Safety and Health in Forest Work; Code of Practice for Sustainable Use of
Mangrove Ecosystems for Aquaculture in Southeast Asia and Code of Practice for Forest
Harvesting in Asia-Pacific which were widely consulted. Special thanks!

Many local documents were reviewed which contributed greatly in guiding the preparation of
this Code. These included: National Mangrove Management Plan 2010; Guyana Forestry
Commission Draft Code of Practice for Mangrove Management 2004; Code of Practice for
Forest Harvesting 2002; The Socio-Economic Context of the Harvesting and Utilisation of
Mangrove Vegetation (Allan et al); The National Mangrove Management Secretariat provided
much logistical support for its development. The contributions of the following organisations are
also gratefully acknowledged: The Guyana Forestry Commission, Sea and River Defence
Department, Fisheries Department, Environmental Protection Agency, Guyana Lands and
Surveys Commission, Georgetown Sewage and Water Commission, Ministry of Housing and
Water, Hydrometeorological Service, National Drainage and Irrigation Authority and the
Regional Democratic Councils.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

Table of Contents

ABBREVIATIONS ..................................................................................................................................... vi

1.0 BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................. 1

1.1. What areMangroves? ............................................................................................................. 1

1.2. Mangroves in Guyana............................................................................................................. 1

1.3. Mangrove Utilisation in Guyana ........................................................................................... 1

1.4. Sustainable Forest Management............................................................................................ 5

1.5. Growing International Awareness and Initiatives ............................................................... 5

1.6. Development of the Code........................................................................................................ 8

1.7. Objective .................................................................................................................................. 9

1.8. Scope and Coverage ................................................................................................................ 9

1.9. Sustainable Harvesting ......................................................................................................... 10

1.10. Geographic Coverage ........................................................................................................... 10

1.11. Implementation ..................................................................................................................... 10

1.12. Stakeholder Roles in Implementing the Code .................................................................... 11

2.0 CODE OF PRACTICE.................................................................................................................14

2.1. ARTICLE 1. PLANNING ................................................................................................... 14

2.1.1. National Planning.............................................................................................................. 14

2.1.2. Site-specific planning ........................................................................................................ 15

2.2. ARTICLE 2. ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION OF MANGROVE AREAS ... 17

2.2.1. Ecological assessment ....................................................................................................... 17

2.2.2. Inventory............................................................................................................................17

2.2.3. Monitoring .........................................................................................................................17

2.2.4. Geomorphological Assessment.........................................................................................18

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.2.5. Mangrove Zoning............................................................................................................. 18

2.3. ARTICLE 3. EXCLUSION AREAS AND BUFFER STRIPS......................................... 19

2.3.1. Protected Areas .................................................................................................................19

2.3.2. Areas to be excluded from harvesting............................................................................. 19

2.3.3. Watercourses .....................................................................................................................19

2.3.4. Watercourse Definitions ................................................................................................... 20

2.3.5. Buffer Strip Protection ..................................................................................................... 20

2.3.6. Management of Buffer Strips...........................................................................................21

2.4. ARTICLE 4. HARVESTING.............................................................................................. 24

2.4.1. Harvesting permission ...................................................................................................... 24

2.4.2. Felling................................................................................................................................. 24

2.4.3. Felling Restrictions ........................................................................................................... 25

2.4.4. Harvesting Cycle ...............................................................................................................25

2.4.5. Minimum cutting size ....................................................................................................... 25

2.4.6. Restricted areas .................................................................................................................26

2.4.7. Extraction Operation........................................................................................................ 26

2.4.8. Post harvest activities........................................................................................................ 27

2.4.9. Closure of cutting areas.................................................................................................... 27

2.5. ARTICLE 5. FORESTRY/SILVICULTURE MANAGEMENT .................................... 28

2.5.1. Silviculture prescriptions ..................................................................................................... 28

2.6. ARTICLE 6. MONITORING .............................................................................................. 30

2.6.1. Monitoring by Government Agencies/Stakeholders ......................................................... 30

2.6.2. Monitoring by local communities ........................................................................................ 30

2.7. ARTICLE 9.0 INTEGRATION OF MANGROVE HARVESTING INTO COASTAL

ZONE MANAGEMENT ...................................................................................................................... 33

2.8. ARTICLE 10.0 HEALTH AND SAFETY .......................................................................... 35

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2.9. ARTICLE 11.0 SOCIAL ISSUES ...................................................................................... 36

2.10. ARTICLE 12.0 COMMUNITY AND WORKPLACE RELATIONS, RIGHTS AND

RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................................... 37

REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................... 40

ANNEX I. LEGISLATION GOVERNING MANGROVES IN GUYANA............................................. 42

ANNEX II: LOGICAL FRAMEWORK OBJECTIVES ACTIVITIES REQUIRED................................45

ANNEX III: EXCERPT FROM CHARTER FOR MANGROVES..........................................................46

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ABBREVIATIONS

CDC Community Democratic Council

DBH Diameter Breast Height (1.3 m above ground)
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
GFC Guyana Forestry Commission
ICZMC Integrated Coastal Zone Management Committee
ILO International Labour Organization
ISO International Organization for Standardization
ITTO International Tropical Timber Organization
NDC Neighbourhood Democratic Council
NMMAP National Mangrove Management Action Plan
RDC Regional Democratic Council
SFM Sustainable Forest Management
SFP State Forest Permission
SRDD Sea and River Defence Division
UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development

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1.0 BACKGROUND
1.1.What are mangroves?
Mangrove ecosystems (or simply ‘mangroves’) are the tide-influenced wetland complex
consisting of mangrove forests, estuaries, lagoons, and associated habitats along the coasts and
around islands in the tropics and subtropics. The mangrove forest consists of seawater-adapted
flowering trees and shrubs, and the many associated ferns, fungi, and algae, including many
epiphytes (Pastakia, 1991).

1.2.Mangroves in Guyana
There are three (3) main types of mangrove species occurring in Guyana. These are (Hussain,
1990):Avicennia germinans also known as “Courida” (Black mangrove); Rhizophora mangle
(Red mangrove) and Laguncularia racemosa (White mangrove).

1.3. Mangrove Utilization in Guyana

Historic Utilization
Mangroves, as a sea defense, are very important because they have the capacity to protect our
very important coastal regions. Around 90% of Guyana's population lives in the coastal zone
(UNDP, 1996) It is the main agricultural area comprising 400,000 ha. most of which lies below
sea level (Ministry of Agriculture, 2002). Agriculture contributed 27% of Guyana’s GDP in
2001, and 20% is due entirely to the key coastal crops of rice and sugar (Ministry of Agriculture,
2002b). The most affordable sea defense is a band of mangrove with a simple earthen damn
behind. This is cheaper comparably with costly artificial barriers (concrete structures) which
currently cost US$2200 per linear meter (George Howard pers. comm., 2002).

The mangrove areas also provide a habitat for juvenile off-shore fisheries. This is another
indirect but economically important use of mangrove vegetation. Mangroves are important
breeding areas for off shore fish and shrimp (SSPA Project Team, 1994; EPA, 2000). Fisheries
contributed 3% of the GDP (prawns and shrimp being about 26% of production by weight)
(Ministry of Agriculture, 2002b). Although there has been no research into the role of Guyana’s
mangrove in supporting the national fishing industry, in the Philippines is has been estimated
that the removal of 1 ha of mangroves will lower fish catches in the nearby sea by 765 kg/yr
(Primavera, 1991).

The third major indirect use of mangrove vegetation is tourism. The mangrove forest at Shell-
beach in Region 1 is a key part of this tourist site, providing the habitat for the scarlet ibis
(Eudocimus ruber) and many other species (Evans, 1998; EPA, 2000). In fact, the mangrove
forest along the coast of Region 1 is such an important area for biodiversity in Guyana that it has

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

been proposed as one of the new protected areas, to preserve the nation’s wildlife and protect a
key area for eco-tourism (EPA, 2000; GFC & ICZMC, 2001).

Direct Uses of Mangroves:

Direct uses involve harvesting of bark for the domestic leather tanning industry, which supplies
the leather craft producers for the domestic and Caribbean markets (GFC & ICZMC, 2001). The
bark of the Red Mangrove produces a high quality tannin which is used to tan all kinds of leather
(GFC & ICZMC, 2001). The tree is locally abundant; occurring in mono-specific stands (Andel,
1998). The majority of extraction takes place around the Mora Passage near Mabaruma in
Region 1 (Andel, 1998). To harvest the bark, the entire tree is cut down and debarked (Andel,
1998).

Another important direct use of mangroves is for fuel-wood (GFC & ICZMC, 2001) including
that for burnt earth production. There are still some rural communities who are dependent on
mangroves for fuel wood (Evans, 1998).

Other uses minor uses include: poles for fishing seines, honey production, crab harvesting and
charcoal production.

Current Utilization
This information was produced from a survey that was conducted by the Mangrove Specialist in
January/February 2011 (Annex IV). The major direct uses of mangroves are bark harvesting and
fuel wood for domestic use and burnt earth production. Main indirect uses involved tourism and
beekeeping.

Mangrove Bark production

Currently, mangrove use for bark production is on the decline (Winter; Sam; Rufino; Wilson-
personal communication 2011). Most of the mangrove bark harvesters got out of business
because of the low price - G$5.00/lb. The current price is G$6.00/lb landed at the Wharf at
Morawhanna. This is still considered inadequate.

There is only one State Forest Permission (SFP) issued for mangrove harvesting, this SFP is
located in the Northwest District (GFC Divisional Forest Officer -Kumaka – personal
communication). However there are about four (4) other bark harvesters operating in the Barima
area.

Approximately 15-50 bags (140lbs/bag) of bark are being shipped to Georgetown fortnightly.
This bark harvesting is being done in the Barima River throughout the year. The bag weights
range from large (150 -175lbs) to small (90- 115lbs). Up to four (4) years ago, bark production
from Northwest was 200-300 bags/fortnight.

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As a result in the low production of bark, tanners are now using a tannin substitute (Mimosa)
which is currently imported from Brazil. Tanners still prefer the bark. Once it is available they
will use it because of the superior quality of the tanned leather that it produces compared to that
produced by the Mimosa. In addition the importation of mimosa from Brazil is costly (Winter –
personal communication).

Persons living in the Northwest area (Barima, Imbatero, Morawhana, Kumaka, Mora Passage)
expressed the view that they are willing to get back into bark production because it provided
livelihood in the past, but they need to have a reasonable price, somewhere in the vicinity of
G$12.00-$15.00/lb for the product.

The harvesting procedure has not changed. This was demonstrated and explained by a current
bark harvester (Philbert Sam). The implements are still the beater, cutlass and axe (no chainsaw
felling is done). Three (3) persons can harvest between 8 to 10 trees per day and bark production
between is 350-450 lbs per tree. The minimum size of trees harvested is one (1) metre in girth
and above seven (7) metres in height. (See Annex IV).

Regeneration is generally good in previously cut small gaps (one or two-tree gaps). After 3-4
months gaps are fully colonized with seedlings 30- 40cm tall. However in larger gaps (>2trees),
the regeneration was less and seedlings grew in tufts and patches. In large old gaps (>5years old)
the same patchy pattern holds.

There is very little utilization of the debarked dead trees. In openings, where the remaining
vegetation was lopped or removed for fuelwood, regenerating seedlings fully covered the gaps.
However, where the debarked dead tree left on the ground (not lopped) it reduced regeneration in
was patchy, even in small gaps. Similar reduction was also evident in the older gaps.

Fire wood

Coastal communities in Regions’ 3,4,5 and 6 are still using firewood for domestic purposes
which include, cooking for homes, religious functions, weddings and other large gatherings.
Firewood supply target large mangrove trees and produce large gaps in the forest, because wood
cutters target close-by areas (closest to the activity of supply) so as to reduce transportation costs
as well as a matter of convenience. The size of trees targeted is between 20 - 150cm in diameter
and of invariable length. This activity has severe negative consequences on the mangrove
environment. Sometimes, tractor and trailer pathways are cut in the mangrove forests for ease of
extraction, thereby damaging both juvenile and adult mangrove growth.

Burnt Earth production

The burnt earth brick makers have also declined over the years. The majority of these operators
were found in the Regions’ 5 and 6 with isolated cases in Regions’ 2, 3 and 4. There were
approximately twelve (12) brick makers over the past ten years in this Berbice area (De Santos –
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personal communication). This number is now reduced to seven (7) - five in the No. 51 and 52
villages, Corentyne and two in West Coast Berbice. The production of burnt earth for road
construction is low as a result of alternative road building material ‘chip seal’ that is mostly used
by the Local Authorities in the respective areas for capping the access-road surfaces.

The freshly cut black mangrove wood in used for the burnt earth process because it is claimed to
produces good quality brick (larger-sized and stronger bricks) compared to other wood species.
However, most of the operators now use a mixture of hardwood from sawmills and old fallen
mangrove trees along with the freshly cut black mangroves trees. The trees cut for this purpose
range from 150 - >250 cm in girth. Ninety (90) percent of the tree is utilized, which includes the
bole of the tree as well as the large branches (>10cm diameter). Trees are mainly selected for
their large boles and branches.

Many black mangrove trees were cut in the past to support the brick-making process; as much as
two trees per week per person. That has been greatly reduced to one or two trees per month per
person.

Both in the past and at present only one-tree gaps are created and the regeneration is always
good- seedlings completely colonized the gaps. This was observed in gaps of different ages (2
and 4-months old openings) - approximately 50-80 seedlings/sq.metre.

Tourism

The mangrove forest at Shell-beach in Region 1 is still a key tourist destination, providing the
habitat for the scarlet ibis (Eudocimus ruber) and many other species. The mangrove forest along
the coast of Region 1 is an important area for biodiversity in Guyana and a key area for eco-
tourism (EPA, 2000; GFC & ICZMC, 2001). No cutting is allowed in this area. The community
adjacent to the mangroves, tour operators and dwellers in the vicinity of the Shell Beach Wildlife
Sanctuary are vigilant of activities in the mangrove areas.

Other coastal mangrove use

Mangroves are still used for fuelwood in some Regions, specifically fire wood and charcoal
making for domestic use in rural communities as was suggested by Evans, 1998.

Fishermen throughout the Guyana coast are currently using black mangroves for poles for
fishing seines; this activity seems to target young slender stems (10-20cm in diameter) and
between 5 - >7m long. Whole trees are not cut for this purpose, but parts of trees. The remainder
of the tree continues to grow after the part is removed. No major gaps are created. Eight (8) to
twelve 12 poles are cut per fisherman every four months.

The larger islands in the Essequibo River – Leguan, Wakenaan, are areas where there is evidence
of natural erosion, but very little sporadic cutting of mangroves is done in on the islands.
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Visually there seems to be no negative impact. Dead mangrove trees are used as fuel wood for
domestic purposes in isolated cases.

Both the red and black mangroves are indirectly used for a honey production in Regions’ 3,4,
and 5. The impact of this economic activity on the mangrove resource seems minimal - there is
no evidence of large-scale destruction of trees. The honey production is more largely
concentrated in Region 4. Honey still supplies a local as well as an overseas market.

Very slender stems (<10cm diameter) mangroves are regularly used by farmers and kitchen
gardener. This activity is done with much regularity in farming and gardening areas. These
smaller stems are cut from larger growing trees. The visual impact of this can be seen by the
thinning of sections of the mangrove forest adjacent to villages. This alone does not seem to pose
a severe environmental impact, but in combination with the activities of fishermen and other
mangrove users may pose a serious threat to mangrove growth and survival. Other activities of
Concern
Rubbish dumping and burning as well as animal grazing are still activities of concern in the
mangrove areas. These greatly negatively affect growth of juvenile and adult mangroves.
Evidence of these detrimental activities can be seen in throughout the Regions’ 3 - 6.

The majority of coastal dwellers interviewed are still not fully aware of the importance of
mangroves. However, they were sure that it would protect them from the sea. Sixty percent
(60%) of the fishermen knew that loss of mangroves meant loss of fish production.

1.4.Sustainable Forest Management

In recent decades, the mangrove belt has been severely depleted. This has sparked much debate
on their role, purpose, sustainable benefits and beneficiaries. Recently however, this forest has
received additional attention for its role in carbon sequestration, having the capacity to sequester
17 metric tonnes of carbon/hectare/year. The Guyana Forestry Commission’s (GFC) National
Forest Policy and National Forest Plan (NFP), and the implementation of the National Mangrove
Management Plan (NMMP) have demonstrated the government’s commitment to sustainably
manage this mangrove resource.

1.5.Growing International Awareness and Initiatives

Concern for the world’s mangrove forests and their capacity to maintain their environmental
values while producing timber and non-timber products in perpetuity has been manifested by

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increased exposure in the media and heightened consumer concerns. This concern has been
highlighted by a number of major initiatives, including the following:

 The International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) has adopted a Charter for
Mangroves in Bangkok, Thailand, in November 1991. The Charter for Mangroves
complements the World Charter for Nature (ANNEX III) that the General Assembly of
the United Nations proclaimed on 28th October, 1982 affirming that nature shall be
respected, genetic viability on earth shall not be compromised, conservation shall be
practiced, sustainable management shall be practiced by man, and nature shall be secured
against degradation.

 The Convention on Biological Diversity: This Convention is the first global,

comprehensive binding agreement to address all aspects of biological diversity: genetic
resources, species and ecosystems. It requires countries to develop and implement
strategies for sustainable use and protection of biodiversity and provides a forum for
continuing dialogue on biodiversity-related issues through the annual Conference of the
Parties. These strategies were adopted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, June 1992 and came into
force December 1993. Signed by over 150 countries and is a legally binding agreement
with three key objectives:

• Biodiversity conservation
• Sustainable use of biodiversity
• Fair and equitable sharing of the resulting benefits

 Mangrove Action Project (MAP): a non-profit organization based in USA, which is

dedicated to reversing the degradation of mangrove forest ecosystems worldwide. Its
central tenet is to promote the rights of local coastal peoples, including fishers and
farmers, in the sustainable management of coastal environments. MAP provides four
essential services to grassroots associations and other proponents of mangrove
conservation:
 It coordinates a unique international NGO network and information
clearinghouse on mangrove forests;
 It promotes public awareness of mangrove forest issues;
 It develops technical and financial support for NGO projects; and
 MAP helps publicize within the developed nations the basic needs and
struggles of Third World coastal fishing and farming communities
affected by the consumer demands of the wealthy nations. (This we do
through our quarterly newsletter, bi-weekly news bulletins, action alerts,
and published articles, as well as planned public forums and
presentations.)
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FAO Mangrove forest management Planning principles: Given the many types of products and
services which might be obtained from forest and aquatic resources in mangroves, a
multidisciplinary approach towards their management is essential.

The following principles can be used as a guide when preparing management plans for
mangroves.

1. Wood, non-wood and aquatic resources are managed in an integrated way and used
to meet local, regional or national needs.
Managing natural resources to meet peoples' needs implies knowledge of what people
want. An assessment of needs and public participation is an integral part of the planning
process. The importance of a resource supply is not only determined by its physical or
biological characteristics but also by the priority that society places on its use. This
prioritization among the management objectives should be clearly reflected in the
management plan's activities.
2. Plans must be objective oriented.
When the problems or issues are understood, a set of objectives should be identified to
address key issues. Objectives should be quantifiable targets that serve to focus
management efforts and measure performance.
3. Plans must try to achieve the greatest good for the greatest number of people in the
long run.
Minority interests must be weighed in relation to the general well-being of larger
communities. In practice it is impossible to achieve complete or unanimous support for
all the management objectives. Compromises between local level and national level
interests are necessary.
4. The ecological carrying capacity should never be exceeded and resource
sustainability should be given high priority.
This is a non-negotiable requirement, if sustainable production is to be achieved. This
requirement should be given high priority in the management planning agenda and for
example a code of conduct for responsible harvesting of given products (forest-based or
aquatic) should be elaborated.
5. The need for the conservation of biological diversity and wildlife should be
recognized.
This should be incorporated into the plan in relation to the scale of the management area.
For small and/or highly fragmented areas, it is impractical to reserve large tracts of
pristine vegetation for conservation purposes. Instead, the establishment of well-placed
control plots may be more feasible.
6. Planning is an on-going dynamic process.
Planning must be flexible enough to accommodate shifts in demand/supplies and

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priorities. Because society's values change over time, planning is an on-going dynamic
process.
7. The plan must provide for improvements in data collection to reduce areas of
uncertainty associated with an incomplete or weak information base.
The ultimate objective may be achieved in phases, taking into account an improved
information base over time and applying a conservative approach where the uncertainty is
perceived to be great.
8. The decision-making process must be visible and equitable.
Involving the public in the decision-making process is necessary to promote local support
and acceptance for integrated forest management planning. It is the duty of the forest
service to explain to the public the implications of various decisions. Customary rights
should be respected where possible. Decision-making should not marginalize the
traditional incomes of local people nor their access to forest products without offering
practical and acceptable alternatives.
9. Planning functions and responsibilities.
The responsibility for planning functions should be clearly spelt out at different levels,
from the local forest management unit level towards the national level.

1.6.Development of the Code

In May 2001, the document “Socio-economic Context of the Harvesting and Utilization of
Mangrove Vegetation (Allan 2002)” was prepared as a first step in the development of a Code of
Practice for management of mangrove ecosystem.

April – May 2010 – Regional Stakeholders’ Workshops were held through the country
(APPENDIX V) getting feedback from stakeholders.

In 2011, a recent survey by the Mangrove Specialist acquired data on current and previous
mangrove utilization/harvesting procedures and production trends that gives more direct
information to guide the preparation of the code. The survey targeted mangrove users at the
domestic and economic levels as well as persons living adjacent to the mangrove forest and
coastal dwellers (APPENDIX IV).
.
The Code takes into consideration activities and contributions of the communities, stakeholder
agencies and NGOs.Formulation of this Code of Practice is based on existing knowledge,
experience and concepts regarding Forest Management. The Code of Practice will identify
linkages and co-ordination needs among stakeholder agencies, NGOs, communities and users of
the mangrove resource. The Code of Practice will also consider legislative aspects and
enforcement mechanisms required for the effective conservation, protection and sustainable use
of mangroves.
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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

The development of the Code of Practice has become necessary to guide the government in its
management of the mangrove ecosystems. The Code of Practice is therefore designed to assist as
a tool for mangrove management. It is directed to all stakeholders concerned with the
conservation and sustainable utilization of mangrove resources, such as foresters, fishermen,
persons engaged in harvesting and processing mangrove products and extracts, local, regional,
international organizations and local communities.

The Code of Practice provides principles, guidelines and recommended actions and practices
applicable to the conservation and management of mangrove ecosystems. It recognizes previous
and current efforts, initiatives and programmes regarding mangrove management. The Code of
Practice is a set of guidelines and requirements covering all aspects of mangrove utilization in
Guyana.

1.7.Objective

The Code of practice for mangrove harvesting is established within a logical framework
(ANNEX II) in the background of the guidelines of the Guyana Forestry Commission’s COP for
timber harvesting to:

 Define principles, guidelines, and best practices for responsible harvesting mangrove in
Guyana

 Provide a tool to guide governmental agencies, non-government organizations,

research and academic institutions, mangrove managers, local communities,
international and local aid, financial institutions, and other stakeholders concerned
with the sustainable harvesting of mangrove forests.

 Identify key legislation, enforcement and monitoring mechanisms to ensure responsible

harvesting, thereby contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of mangroves

1.8.Scope and Coverage

The Code, if followed, will allow the mangrove forests to be harvested with minimal adverse
impact on the forested environment. It recognizes previous and current efforts, initiatives and
programmes regarding mangrove management in Guyana. It is designed to balance commercial
considerations with protection of environmental and social values. Implementation of the
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guidelines will help ensure that important resources and values are recognized and protected
during harvesting operations, and that the benefits of harvesting to communities, industry and to
the nation are maximized. It will, while providing details on harvesting practices, attempt to
ensure there is flexibility to account for the specifications for existing mangrove uses.

If used correctly, it can effectively, help the implementation of standards or guidelines,

participate in the planning process of stakeholders, and integrate with other sustainable forest
management instruments. The code will assist in minimizing negative impacts of mangrove
harvesting

1.9.Sustainable Harvesting

Sustainable harvesting will apply across all harvesting activities consistent with similar timber
harvesting principles recommend by GFC, ITTO and FAO (Dykstra et al 1996) and include:
 commitment to long-term sustainable provision of products and services;
 maintenance of environmental integrity in harvesting planning and implementation;
 consultation on all issues with all effected stakeholders, including those recognized under
the laws of Guyana;
 harvest planning where necessary;
 effective implementation and control of harvesting operations with predetermined
guidelines and benchmarks;
 thorough post-harvest assessment and communication of results to the planning team and
to harvesting personnel;
 development of a competent and properly trained and motivated workforce.

The primary focus of the Code is on the sustainable harvesting of mangrove trees since if not
sustained, it can have deleterious effects on the mangrove and other related ecosystems.

Harvesting is a major silvicultural tool available to foresters in the Guyana. Hence, it is this one
aspect of forest management that if correctly done can very effectively contribute to maintaining
healthy and productive forests in perpetuity.

1.10. Geographic Coverage

The Code is designed to cover all mangrove areas on state lands while acknowledging the
existence of mangrove forest on private lands.

1.11. Implementation

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This Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting provides guidelines or regulations on

harvesting. The Code concentrates on “what should be done” rather than “how to do the work”.
The “how to” is the mechanism by which the Code is actually implemented in the field and
involves for example, reduced impact guidelines and silvicultural prescriptions.

This Code of Practice should be implemented by undertaking staged development within the
sustainable limits of the resource to avoid undesirable social effects, paralleled with
improvement of regulatory authorities’ ability to evaluate and monitor operations.

All stakeholders should be concerned with the conservation and management of mangrove
ecosystems and should collaborate in the fulfillment and implementation of the objectives and
principles contained in this document. Conservation of mangrove ecosystems must be a national
concern and as information, data and knowledge increase, the operational standards will be
revised where applicable.

The code will first be implemented on a voluntary basis to allow stakeholders time to adjust to
the changes, to develop further management capacity and to train supervisors and operators.
After the code has been publicly released the relevant agencies will assume monitoring against
the standards described in the code. The result of monitoring will be evaluated to determine an
operator’s performance and will be made available to the public. Mechanisms will be put in
place to reward compliance while non-compliance with critical standards will have penalties
attached. It is anticipated that through education on the required operating standards and the
scientific reason behind these standards, operators gradually will become the supporters of the
Code of Practice (Operational Standards) for Mangrove Harvesting.

1.12. Stakeholder Roles in Implementing the Code

1.12.1. Issues for Stakeholders

A number of issues need to be considered by the stakeholders for the successful implementation
of the Code. Two of the most important issues are:
 participation and shared understanding between all stakeholders at all stages of the
planning and implementation process;

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

 responsibility for mangrove management to be shared among all stakeholders

1.12.2. Roles of Stakeholders

Government
 Provide policies, legislation, mechanisms, staff, education and training, resources
and encouragement for the ecologically sustainable use, on all classes of land
ownership, for the benefit of all of society.
 Facilitate training and funding for implementation of the Code of Practice.
.

Environmental Protection Agency

 As the agency responsible for the management of the natural environment
(Environmental Protection Act of 1996), the EPA should collaborate with all
other agencies and stakeholders to take steps necessary for the effective
management of the mangrove areas so as to ensure conservation, protection,
sustainable use resources.
 Provide the relevant technical (environmental) support/advice as is related to
mangroves and adjacent areas in relation to harvesting
 Monitor and enforce the environmental regulations

Lands and surveys Commission

The LSC be responsible for all mangroves on public lands, rivers and creeks of
Guyana (Guyana Land and Survey Commission Act).Guyana Forestry
Commission
 As the agency with the technical expertise on forest harvesting practices the
GFC should collaborate with EPA to provide forest owners and local
communities in implementing the principles of Sustainable Forest
Management (SFM) practices (Forest Act 2009).
 Assist the mangrove users to implement sound harvesting practices.
 Evaluate harvesting preparations/procedure.
 Monitor and evaluate harvesting operations for compliance with this
harvesting Code of Practice.
 Be responsible for all mangrove areas on state forest lands (Forest Act 2009)

Guyana Mangrove Restoration Project

 Coordinate with agencies on all aspects of mangrove harvesting

University of Guyana
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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

 Assume the lead role in research as they relate to harvesting and related activities;
 Coordinate research with all relevant agencies as well as the GMRP;
 Assist GMRP in deciding on research priorities;
 Providing or sourcing technical assistance in areas of research, in collaboration
with stakeholders.

Sea & River Defense Department

 Assist in monitoring of harvesting/cutting of coastal mangroves;
 Collaborating with other mangrove related agencies as it relates to harvesting of
coastal mangroves.

Private land owners

 Harvest mangrove resource wisely in a way that will maintain options for future
development and so provide for their long-term benefit;
 Maintain the capacity of the forest resource to supply essential needs;
 Protect neighbouring and downstream resources;
 Monitor operations for compliance with good practice.

Lessees/Other mangrove harvesters

 Where necessary do harvesting preparation in consultation with forest owners
and/or the Guyana Forestry Commission;
 Implement effective and safe operations;
 Optimize the benefits to society and lessee/individual/company;
 Train and employ local community members to increase the level of skills
that can be used in the future.

Communities
 Assist in educating and training forest owners/dwellers and users in the wise
management of forests;
 Make use of Local Authority/GFC/EPA/SRDD expertise;
 Identify multiple use needs of communities;
 Assist in arranging the equitable sharing of benefits from mangrove use.

Non-governmental Organizations
 Provide education and promotion of this Code and related regulations to
communities and others;
 Assist with ensuring Code compliance, monitoring and auditing procedures.
 Competent2
Harvesting
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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.0 CODE OF PRACTICE

In the development of this Code many local documents were reviewed to have a historical
perspective of mangrove utilization. These included: National Mangrove Management Plan
2010; Guyana Forestry Commission Draft Code of Practice for Mangrove Management 2004;
Code of Practice for Forest Harvesting 2002; The Socio-Economic Context of the Harvesting
and Utilization of Mangrove Vegetation (Allan et al).

Country-wide stakeholder meetings were held to get a feedback from as many stakeholders as
possible with regards the management and utilization of mangroves. Further, a survey of the
coastal regions that targeted persons utilizing the mangrove forest - fishermen, makers of burnt
bricks, Honeybee keepers and coastal dwellers (gardeners, farmers and residents living adjacent
to the mangrove forests) - was conducted to find out the current uses of mangroves and reasons
and the methods of harvesting and cutting of mangroves trees. These activities were conducted to
have an understanding of the current state of the industry and its issues. In addition, to examine
conventional harvesting practices as well as the level of use by these stakeholders.

The three essential requirements for stakeholders to correctly apply the principles outlined in the
Code of Practice of Mangrove Harvesting are::
 know what is to be done
 know how to do it properly
 be motivated to do it in the proper way

2.1.ARTICLE 1: PLANNING
2.1.1. National Planning

Planning should be carried out at two hierarchical levels (national and site-specific) to ensure
that the process is acceptable to all stakeholders.
 Broad scale planning will identify the requirements for balancing the conservation and
development needs of forests and communities.
 Site-specific planning will identify the most desirable harvesting practices to ensure that
areas are utilised in a sustainable manner.
 An integrated approach to forest planning requires consideration of three factors
that are crucial to the implementation of sustainable forest management. These
factors are:
- Environmental / Biological / Silvicultural;
- Economic / Market / Finance;
- Socio-economic.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

Planning should be done in a simplified manner so that it is acceptable to all stakeholders. Other
important considerations are the locality of proposed harvesting areas, the area specific
mangrove stand density and the purpose/reason for harvesting and amount to be harvested. The
code of practice ensures that mangroves are not over harvested, thus preventing any negative
consequences.

These three major factors constitute the basis or foundation for sustainable development and
assist in determining suitable land-use zones. Each consideration can be translated into national
and location specific criteria.

The first factor to be considered refers to biological and environmental issues. What is growing
and can potentially grow on a particular plot of land, and what land is available for forest
management? What significant features or species occur in the area? What regulatory and legal
considerations exist in the area to protect various biological and environmental features?

The second factor should consider the following questions. Will the particular area yield, in
financial terms, a sufficient return? Where are the investment funds coming from and what are is
the cost of capital? What is the inherent value of the region for biodiversity conservation or other
uses? Here, reference must be made to both traditional economics with market forecasts
(domestic and external) and emerging valuation methodologies.

The third involves socio-economic criteria. These refer to people, both men and women, and
their socio-economic conditions such as access:

 to, and use of land;

 to land tenure (as per custom laws or custom or individual owner rights)
values and beliefs;
 to institutions and economic, political and other organizations;
 to household livelihood strategies.

Inherent in these criteria is the opportunity and the need for creating sustainable relations
between the local people who depend on the mangrove forest for different user activities. This
entails taking into consideration existing mangrove uses. At the same time, this set of criteria
contains a large number of interesting opportunities to work with local communities as well as
provide opportunities for local employment and improved communications.

2.1.2. Site-specific planning

At the site-specific level (the focus of this COP) as well, sustainable forest management should
encompass biological, silvicultural, environmental, market, financial and socio-economic
considerations. To do this, participation from stakeholders representing each user aspect and area
is essential, as is input and guidance from persons who are independent of the issues.
Initial planning for harvesting activities should identify specific issues that are relevant to local
user groups. It is important to consider any previous land-use issues or site-capability

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

information. This will lead to options for future use of the area developed on sound land-use
principles.
As an important part of the planning process, the benefits of sustainable harvesting as well as the
consequences of poor land management practices (in economic and environmental terms) need to
be explained to stakeholders. These explanations and discussion should:

 present resource owners with a range of options for sustainable management of particular
areas, including the conservation of mangroves;
 clearly present the consequences of harvesting mangrove areas beyond their capacity for
sustained use.

Of all the leases issued by GFC, only State Forest Permissions should be allocated for mangrove
areas in state forest. No management plan is required for this type of lease (GFC, 1998).
However, GFC is responsible for preparing Area Management Plans for SFP areas (GFC, 1999).

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.2.ARTICLE 2. ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION OF

MANGROVE AREAS

The EPA in collaboration with other mangrove-related agencies and the University of Guyana,
should conduct periodic inventories and ecological assessments of the mangrove areas. The
mangrove areas should be classified in terms of ecological quality and present use, and allocate
or use them as recommended below:

Ecological quality Present use and status Recommended disposition

Excellent not yet used pristine full protection, non-use,
‘no touch’
Good slightly used conservation, sustainable
use
Poor fully converted, damaged optimum use, rehabilitation

Periodic post–harvest inventories and ecological assessments of the mangrove areas should be
done since all human activities, including harvesting of trees, has an ecological footprint that
must be accounted for. A small harvested area may have an ecological footprint that may be
many times larger than the size of the cut area.

The following should be considered in the assessment and classification process:

2.2.1. Ecological assessment

This should reflect the status of, and threats to mangroves and other ecosystems, as a basis for
monitoring and evaluation, or for planning, development, and management. Standard techniques
for studying mangroves are described in Snedaker and Snedaker (1984) and Citron and Novelli
(1984) in the same volume and include structural parameters such as crown diameter, leaf area
index and above-ground biomass. These are generally measures of comparative ecosystem
functions of a particular stand of mangroves that can be used for rapid characterization. Other
critical factors describing functions of a mangrove stand include rainfall, temperature and tidal
hydrology. The regularity of the assessment should be defined by EPA.

2.2.2. Inventory
Systematic counting, measuring, and recording of ecosystem statistics—including species
diversity, population and community structures, habitats, users, products, etc.

2.2.3. Monitoring
Collection of specific information about ecosystems, environmental quality, harvesting (number
of trees harvested), illegal harvesting, populations, and economic activities etc. for management
purposes.
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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.2.4. Geomorphological Assessment

The lay-out of the land and water bodies; geography and topography should be assessed.

2.2.5. Mangrove Zoning

Mangrove areas should be clearly zoned, with the function and conservation status of each zone
identified and legally defined. Restrictions must be set for the use of land, water and waterways,
and the biological resources. Zoning is a practical means to help implement conservation and
other management objectives, and should be part of the overall coastal zone management plan.

The general proposed zoning criteria for Mangrove Forests (Source Mangrove Management
Action Plan, 2001) are:
 Permanent Protection Forests
Large mangrove forests (areas greater than 100 hectares)are habitat for rare species,
richness and diversity of species. Mangrove areas are managed for protective and
scientific functions.

 Reserve Forests Mangrove

Areas that are crucial for erosion control.

 Rehabilitation Forest
Degraded mangrove forest and mangrove areas are being established by natural process.
Areas managed for the rehabilitation of mangroves.

 Production Forest
Mangrove areas with potential for provision of approved goods and services; Mangrove
forest managed for the production of fire wood, bark, fish, honey etc.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.3.ARTICLE 3. EXCLUSION AREAS AND BUFFER STRIPS

Areas to be excluded from harvesting are very important in the management of Mangrove
forests. Watercourse buffer strips, protected areas and wildlife strips dispersed throughout the
forests are very important in the maintenance of genetic resources (GFC 2002).

2.3.1. Protected Areas

Conservation of environmental diversity (biodiversity, including flora, fauna, threatened species,
and genetic resources; landscape; cultural heritage) is of great importance in sound forest
management. Maintenance of genetic resources can be assisted by the retention of flora and
fauna in formal and informal reserves including wildlife habitat strips and watercourse buffer
strips dispersed throughout the forest. Wildlife habitat strips can be based on watercourse buffer
strips. Ideally, buffer strip links should be included to connect with watercourses in adjoining
catchments; nonproductive forest could perform this function. Considerations for flora and fauna
conservation should always be taken into account at the national and site-specific levels.

2.3.2. Areas to be excluded from harvesting

 Conservation areas (e.g. biodiversity reserves)
 Declared protected areas under national legislation
 Areas of cultural importance (historical, archaeological and spiritual sites, settlements
and farms)
 Areas required for community needs

2.3.3. Watercourses
Water quality and flow are affected by natural factors such as annual rainfall; vegetation type
and cover; soil type and exposure; topography; wildfires and storm events; and by human factors
such as road construction and maintenance, timber harvesting, dam construction and chemical
use. Maintenance of acceptable water quality and flow; and catchment and channel stability is of
major concern. This can be achieved by minimizing disturbance to watercourse channels and
riparian zones, and by reducing soil disturbance in and near watercourses. All watercourses
require protection during forest operations; the type of protection required depending on the
nature of the catchment, size and permanence of the watercourse and the volume of water
carried.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.3.4. Watercourse Definitions

Watercourses The width of a watercourse is the bank-to-bank distance during normal wet
season (peak) flow, and may include a flood plain area. This adjacent flood
plain may be a swamp or a stream meander.
Rivers Rivers are those watercourses where water flows all year round in most
years and that are depicted and named as such on the 1:50,000 Lands and
Surveys maps.
Creeks Creeks are those watercourses where water may flow or pond for more than
six months in most years, or whose beds are of stony, gravely, or exposed
bedrock materials.

Waterways Waterways are stable, non-incised depressions. The slope of both banks is
less than 30%. Beds are of soil and often covered with vegetation. Water
will flow or pond for less than six months in most years.
Swamps Swamps have (standing) surface water present for six months or more in
most years.
Lakes Lakes have surface water present all year round for most years

2.3.5. Buffer Strip Protection

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

Buffer strips are required, irrespective of whether a feature is identified on available maps of any
scale. Field inspection prior to harvest to identify buffer strips is required before any harvesting
operation.
Buffer strip widths depend on the nature of the protected area or watercourse (GFC, 2002)

Type Minimum required buffer strip protection

Conservation and 20 metres
declared protected
areas
Cultural areas Villages, farms, settlements and cultural, spiritual or
historical heritage areas - 20 metres
Sites susceptible to No additional buffer required
degradation
Watercourses Buffer width is measured horizontally from the top of the
watercourse bank, or the edge of the flood plan when present, or
the point above the high bank where the slope becomes less than
50% (27°) - whichever provides the greatest distance from the
edge of the watercourse bed.
Rivers - 30 metres each side. Retain vegetation on both sides
(felling not allowed)
Creeks - 20 metres each side. Retain vegetation on both sides
(felling not allowed)
Waterways - Merchantable trees may be felled but extraction
equipment is not permitted within 5 metres of either side
Lakes, swamps and 20 metres from the peak level mark or edge of typical wetland
other inland Vegetation
wetlands
Ocean 500 metres from edge of typical wetland
Vegetation

2.3.6. Management of Buffer Strips

 A mangrove buffer zone should be maintained along the coasts and rivers for protection
from erosion, waves, and storms.
 A mangrove buffer zone should be maintained for mangrove harvesting operations to
protect the coastal and riverain lands, communities and infrastructure.
 A mangrove buffer zone should be maintained according to the buffer zone regulations
as set out in the Code of Practice for timber harvesting:
 No trees shall be felled within exclusion areas or their buffer strips, except for waterway
buffer strips;
 Machine access within exclusion areas and their buffer strips is not allowed, except at
designated watercourse crossing points. Where permitted, access should be by the
shortest possible distance;
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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

 No earthworks, or spoils from earthworks, shall end up in a exclusion area or its buffer
strip;
 No harvesting debris shall be pushed into exclusion areas or their buffer strips;
 Trees should be felled away from buffer strips and watercourses;
 Where trees inadvertently fall into a watercourse or its buffer strip, the head as well as
any accompanying logging debris should be pulled clear, unless unacceptable damage to
the bank or buffer strip is likely to occur.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

Figure 1. Buffer strips along watercourses (GFC, 2002)

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.4.ARTICLE 4. HARVESTING

The application of the precautionary approach to the conservation and sustainable management
of mangrove ecosystems is applied in this code. Here harvesting includes consideration of the
traditional knowledge, beliefs and customs of local communities.

This is in keeping with Principle 15 of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development
states that: “In order to protect the environment, the precautionary approach shall be widel y
applied by the States according to their capabilities. Where there are threats of serious or
irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing
cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation.” (Jakarta Mandate, 1995).

2.4.1. Harvesting permission

All harvesting of parts of mangrove trees, mangrove trees and other trees in the Mangrove forest
on state forest lands must be authorized by the Guyana Forestry Commission before harvest. For
areas outside state forest, the Lands and Surveys Commission as lead agency (Guyana Land
and Survey Commission Act: mandated the Commission to take charge of and act as
guardian over all public lands, rivers and creeks of Guyana…) should collaborate with
EPA,GMRP, GFC and SRDD and any other agency deemed relevant will be responsible for
granting harvesting permission.

No harvesting of mangroves and associated vegetation should be done in mangrove areas outside
state forest without permission from the relevant authority as stated in the above paragraph.

No person shall fell, cut, lop, tap, bleed, injure, take or extract any bark, leaf, seed, fruit, gum or
other part or substance from, or transport, remove or export any mangrove tree or plant in a state
forest without permission from the Guyana Forestry Commission.

Harvesting should not be done within the one half of a mile of mean high water mark along any
land along the sea foreshore. Harvesting away from the sea foreshore area will be conducted with
strict adherence to protected areas, buffer strips and zones as stipulated by the code.

No harvesting should be done in areas that are being managed for sea defenses.

2.4.2. Felling
Directional felling is required in keeping with the GFC Code of Practice for Timber harvesting
to:
 minimize damage to the residual mangrove stand
 facilitate easy log extraction, thereby minimizing ground disturbance
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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

 avoid disturbance to watercourses, exclusion areas and buffer strips

 prevent trees from hanging up in adjacent canopy trees
 minimize canopy openings by felling into gaps formed by previous felled trees or
natural tree fall
 increase work safety

Special permission is required for the use of chainsaws in the mangrove forest as this practice
seems to interfere with the coppicing ability of the cut tree. In the event of use of the chainsaw
the operator and assistant should be trained in directional felling. The felling crew should be
equipped with at least two felling wedges, a sledgehammer or hatchet and a cutlass.

Stump height should be as low as practicable - 30 cm. Stump heights over 30 cm are acceptable,
where butt defect is obvious; or in the case of a red mangrove tree cut for general use (other than
for bark)- cutting should not be higher than the point at which stilt roots adjoin the main stem

Felling should be done at the intensity of 10 trees/ha – as being applied to SFPs through the
quota system, unless otherwise permitted by the GFC in the case of harvesting state forests or the
relevant authority for non-state forest mangroves.

2.4.3. Felling Restrictions

 Felling is not allowed within protected/exclusion areas, buffer strips and areas deemed
closed by the respective regulating authority;
 Where trees fall unintentionally into watercourses or their buffer strips, the tree head as
well as any accompanying logging debris should be pulled clear, lopped and scattered;
 Mangroves on islands should only be cut with special permission from the relevant
authority;
 Felling by chainsaw in red mangrove forest for bark production is prohibited;
 No two trees should be felled less than eight (8) metres of each other.

2.4.4. Harvesting Cycle

The cutting cycle duration is 20 years. Thus, if a certain area has been deemed to be closed to
current harvesting, then the next harvest may be carried out in 21 years later.

2.4.5. Minimum cutting size

Cutting for Bark
Only trees of red mangroves trees should be cut for bark harvesting. Trees should be more than
7m in height and have a bark thickness of at least 1.2cm.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

Cutting for logs and fuel wood (domestic use and brick making)
Both red and black mangroves that are equal to and more than 7m in height and above 3m
circumference should be cut for these purposes. White mangrove should be cut above 5m and 2m
in height and circumference respectfully.

Cutting for fishing poles

All three species of mangroves can be cut for this purpose. Poles should be cut at least 7m in
height and no smaller than 10cm in diameter. No mangrove stem should be cut above 20cm
diameter for poles. No more than one (1) pole should be removed from an individual tree. Stems
should not be harvested less the 8m apart.

Cutting for other uses

Special permission is required from the relevant authorities for cutting mangroves for uses such
as gardening, farming, logs or clearing mangrove areas. This permission should be sought from
GFC with respect to cutting on state forest and Lands and Surveys Commission in the case of
cutting outside of state forests but not on private lands.

2.4.6. Restricted areas

Machine access is prohibited in protection/exclusion areas and buffer strips.
Trees felled (for firewood, burnt earth) inadvertently into a these areas should be cut into smaller
pieces then extracted with minimal residual damage to the forest.

Trees felled (for logs) unintentionally into a buffer strip should have their crowns removed from
the exclusion zone via winch where possible or cut into manageable pieces then extracted with
minimal residual damage to the forest – whichever looks likely to cause the least damage.

2.4.7. Extraction Operation

When harvesting for bark, a one-metre (1m) wide extraction route should be cut (avoiding
harvestable trees) for ease of taking out the product to waterway/transshipment point.

Trees cut for use as fuelwood should be further cut into small pieces (< 4m length) that would
minimize the damage to the residual stand when extracting wood.

Trees harvested for logs should be extracted using a winch wherever possible OR the most
appropriate manual method of extraction, whichever is likely to cause the least damage to
residual stand. A one-metre (1m) wide extraction route (avoiding harvestable trees) is allowed.

Extraction for poles and smaller stems should be done in a manner to cause minimal damage to
the residual trees.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.4.8. Post harvest activities

Rehabilitation of harvested areas is required to prevent further deterioration of the logged area
and downstream soil and water values, and to encourage forest regeneration.

All areas should be left in a clean and tidy condition (free of fuels, chemicals and garbage).

The residue of trees felled for bark, fuelwood, logs etc. should be lopped and scattered in the
vicinity of the cut area but not into buffer zones and protected areas.

2.4.9. Closure of cutting areas

An area will be closed when the forest authority is satisfied that it has exhausted its supply of
both domestic and economic timber and any further extraction will have negative environmental
consequences.

Any mangrove area that is considered closed by the relevant authority on mangrove forest
harvesting (GFC or other) should not be re-entered and should remain closed until the next
scheduled cutting cycle.

The public will be notified of closed areas by the erection of notice boards stipulating the closure
of areas outside of state forest.

In the case of a SFP the Guyana Forestry Commission will write the lessee to the effect.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.5.ARTICLE 5. FORESTRY/SILVICULTURE MANAGEMENT

2.5.1. Silviculture prescriptions

Mangrove forestry/silviculture objectives may have an economic, environmental or aesthetic

basis, or a combination of these. The specific objectives for forest management include timber
and fuelwood production, shoreline and river channel stabilisation, landfill and waste
management, fisheries and wildlife support, storm and flood protection, ecological and
biodiversity restoration and habitat rehabilitation. This is done to promote increased awareness
and educate stakeholders on benefits and importance of the mangrove forests and to promote
better harvesting techniques for the optimum utilization of mangrove resources.

The primary objectives for mangrove forest management should be clearly defined and
prioritized. Where possible, multiple-use management should be considered as the ultimate goal
of management.

In locations where pristine mangrove forests no longer exist, the priority should be to protect
mature stands that are still reproductively viable. Given the fact that mangrove trees have very
good dispersal mechanisms it is also important that in disturbed areas trees and shrubs may still
be considered as valuable and capable of supporting sustainable forest management and
mangrove rehabilitation efforts.

Degraded and destroyed areas should be identified and prioritized for rehabilitation. Natural
regeneration should be encouraged where possible, but interventions should also be considered
as an option when natural regeneration is difficult.

Careful technical assessments should be undertaken prior to any decision on replanting if

deemed necessary to rehabilitate a site. When this is the case local species should be used.

Any rehabilitation programme should involve community members and stakeholders. This will
provide an opportunity for involvement and success.

All harvesting of mangrove resources must be done in a sustainable manner and in accordance
with the rules, regulations and guidelines stipulated by the Code to ensure that optimum growth
is achieved. It should also take into account all the relevant biological, technical, economical and
social aspects of the mangrove community.

To this end, silvicultural prescriptions should be the driving force. Due consideration to the
practicability to actually enforce the prescriptions should be given (see prescriptions below).

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

Management Objective Silvicultural Prescriptions

To provide for wood production Retention of enough trees to provide for natural
regeneration rather than create a dependence on
artificial regeneration.

To provide coastal protection Thinning on a silvicultural schedule rather than on

an enduse demand schedule

To provide areas for scientific Use extraction methods that minimize damage to
research trees and the ecosystem

To promote biodiversity Refrain from clear felling activities.

conservation in
mangrove ecosystems Retain buffer strips to stabilize river banks, coastal
areas and to protect natural processes.
Conduct scientific studies on regeneration rates,
growth and yield of wood and products, site
damage, utilization, seasoning and preservation of
wood.

Replanting to rehabilitate degraded mangrove areas

To promote the rehabilitation of that proved to be slow to restore the forest because
degraded mangrove ecosystems of the lack of mother trees

Table.2. Silvicultural management prescriptions

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.6. ARTICLE 6: MONITORING

2.6.1. Monitoring by Government Agencies/Stakeholders

Guyana Forestry Commission, the Sea and River Defense Department, the Fisheries Department
and the Environmental Protection Agency are among the main government institutions that
legally have the sole responsibility for overseeing monitoring of mangrove forest in Guyana.
However, all stakeholders, interested parties and private individuals concerned with the
conservation and management of mangrove ecosystem should collaborate in the fulfillment and
implementation of the objectives of this code. Monitoring of all activities taking place in state
forest and other harvesting sites/locations in the mangrove forest should be done by the two
authorities respectively.

EPA in collaboration with other stakeholder agencies should develop and adopt simple indicators
as a tool to monitor environmental changes in mangrove ecosystems. These should be
understood by local managers and communities and used by them to record the impacts of
management interventions, for example:
 Number of trees harvested as planned (high =positive indicator)
 Number of damaged trees (high = negative indicator)
 Viable fruiting on mangrove trees (high = positive indicator)
 Abundance and diversity of birds (high = positive indicator)
 Soil stability (high erosion rate = negative indicator)
 Crab abundance and diversity (high = positive indicator)
 Good water chemistry quality (high = positive indicator)

This should be integrated into the mangrove baseline data/inventory information then into a
national database and update this regularly as a tool for management decision-making and made
available to all stakeholders. Government should strengthen and develop existing institutions and
information systems and establish standardized databases and procedures for collection,
collation, retrieval and dissemination of information related to mangrove harvesting (Bagarinao
& Primavera, 2005)

2.6.2. Monitoring by local communities

Local communities that are solely dependent on mangrove forest for economic, social, financial,
and environmental reasons and should assist in protecting the mangrove forest from large scale
unsustainable harvesting. They have a responsibility to inform the EPA, GFC, SRDD, LSC and
any other stakeholder agency if a problem should arise. Rangers should be elected from among
residents for the purpose of protecting the mangrove forest ecosystem. All people (Guyanese)
have a responsibility for protecting the mangrove forests.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ARTICLE 7.0 CONTROL AND ENFORCEMENT

According to IUCN guidelines, strict controls must be instituted in protected areas where various
types of utilization are permitted, to ensure that the resource being used and the other objectives
of the protected area are not compromised (GFC 2004).
Any formula for control of harvesting of products in mangrove forests should consider:
 The territorial element (forest license) into harvesting so that a given area is
designated as being for the sole use of people from one village who will defend their
privilege against outsiders;
 The benefit to be derived by each household should be fairly distributed; otherwise
those left out will not respect harvesting limits. However, to avoid creating an
attractive zone which draws more people, harvesting rights should be granted only to
original households;
 Monitoring Officers, Forest Guards or Rangers (EPA, GFC or SRDD personnel)
should be familiar with the rules and regulations of mangrove areas. It is best if they
possess real handling power, for example to arrest law breakers, and confiscate arms,
tools, logs, cattle and illegally collected produce;
 There should be simple legal proceedings in delivering arrested persons into the
hands of the law and filing charges;
 Illegal harvesters have to be tracked down, identified or arrested and persuaded
through legal action to cease their activities inside mangrove areas.

Where possible the enforcing of mangrove regulation should be supported by the Guyana Police
Force and the Guyana Defence Force. To this end these two entities should have training in the
workings of the Code of Practice for mangrove harvesting.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ARTICLE 8.0: LEGISLATION

In all law enforcement matters, the relevant agencies involved should try to develop a
humanitarian image. They should however be firm but sympathetic and understanding of the
needs of local people. It should be uncompromising in its determination to protect the integrity of
protected areas (Trevin et al 2009).
The code of practice hopes to ensure that all the rules and guidelines are administered and
adhered to for example:

No mangroves should be cut without the permission from the GFC

“Protected Trees” 17. (1) “No bullet-wood tree or red, black or white mangrove trees shall
be felled without first obtaining the permission in writing of an authorized forest officer not
below the rank of an Assistant Commissioner of Forests”.

No sea defense vegetation should be removed without the permission of SRDD

Chapter 64.02: Laws of Guyana Sea Defence Act Part V Offences Article 20, states
that “removal of earth, shell etc, sea weed or vegetation , or any other matter or
thing, whatsoever from any sea defence or from any land along the foreshore within
one half of a mile of mean high water mark (seaward) is liable to a fine of twelve
thousand dollars ($12,000.00) and to imprisonment for twelve months , and any
such matter or thing together with any article used in connection with the removal
thereof shall be forfeited”

Guyana Lands and surveys Commission responsible for all public lands:

Guyana Land and Survey Commission Act: mandated the Commission to take
charge of and act as guardian over all public lands, rivers and creeks of Guyana,

The EPA is responsible for the management, conservation, protection and improvement of the
environment:

Environmental Protection Act of 1996: mandated that they will provide for the
management, conservation, protection and improvement of the environment;
danger of extinction; (2) any person who in any marine reserve without permission
granted under subsection 3 (b) takes or destroys any flora and fauna other than fish
is guilty of an offence.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.7.ARTICLE 9.0 INTEGRATION OF MANGROVE HARVESTING

INTO COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT

Mangrove ecosystem management is an integral part of the coastal zone management process in
Guyana. Strong coordination is required between the concerned stakeholder agencies for
mangroves to ensure an integrated approach to planning and management of the use of mangrove
ecosystems, coordination among concerned agencies and users of other coastal and riverain
resources is required.

To this end a working group comprising of technical expertise to manage the coastal zone should
come on stream and be supported by the Government. The entity should focus on achieving the
following:
 Consensus: To achieve a national consensus, seminars and workshops to discuss
mangrove management policy and land use should be organized by the committee;
 Development strategy: A strategy for sustainable mangrove management and use of
land and aquatic resources, including conservation of wildlife and bio-diversity, should
be prepared and implemented;
 Coordination: Close liaison should be fostered between the Services of Forestry,
Fisheries, Environment, Agriculture, Sea Defense and NGOs who have an interest in
mangroves;
 Social forestry: In forestry there is an economic and social welfare sub-sector. Sufficient
mangrove forests should be designated for the local supply of goods and services needed
by the rural communities.

The functioning of the mangrove ecosystem is closely linked to terrestrial land use practices. In
particular, changes in water-flow regimes affect mangroves, and the overdrawing of ground
water or excessive removal of mangrove vegetation may increase the danger of aquifer
salinization and contamination.

Consequently, the coastal zone should be considered as an integral component of overall land
use planning and development so that appropriate land use policies and action programmes may
be formulated. Priority should be given to the sustainable use of mangrove and mangrove-related
areas, including the environmentally sound extraction of mangrove products.

Many of the uses and services of mangroves are compatible such as wood harvesting, bark and
honey collection, coastal protection and small scale capture fishery. Others are less so, and hence
a zonation of mangrove areas according to primary land-use objectives is necessary. This
underscores the need for a holistic approach within the framework of integrated coastal zone
management planning (FAO 1994).
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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

The working group should be tasked with the updating of the Mangrove Management Plan and
the development of Operational Plans so as to provide coordinated, cross-sectoral actions for
implementation and monitoring. This Committee should address the following:
 Stakeholder participation at all stages of planning and implementation mangrove
harvesting.
 Assessment of the status of mangroves and the success of management initiatives in the
respective areas and progress reporting.
 Local academic and research institutions with the appropriate expertise of
implementation, monitoring and evaluation of mangrove ecosystems.
 Performance criteria on the effectiveness of Code of Practice for harvesting repeated at
least every 3 to 5 years.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.8.ARTICLE 10.0 HEALTH AND SAFETY

Health and safety should be adhered to in the light of guidelines set out by the GFC Code of
Practice of Timber Harvesting. Good safety and health practices in forestry are essential. The
following practices and standards are based on the Code of Practice for Safety and Health in
Forestry Work of the International Labour Organisation, Geneva and on the occupational health
and safety laws of Guyana (GFC 2002).

 Employers have the main responsibility for safety and health in forestry work; therefore
is responsible for installing and maintaining work systems and methods which are safe
and without risk to health.
 All operators of any kind of machine or mechanical device should receive all the
necessary training and instructions to ensure competency to safely operate equipment for
the job they are assigned to do.
 Basic first-aid training (and refresher course) should be provided to all personnel
involved in field operations etc. Also a kit should be provided to every crew or should be
located close to where crews are working.
 No machine should be operated by a person who is drowsy, under the influence of
alcohol, medicine or drugs, suffers blackouts, or is suffering from any physical or mental
distraction that could contribute to unsafe operation.
 Working hours should not exceed the number prescribed by national law or collective
agreements.
 All persons should be provided with and wear all the necessary safety equipment needed.
 Periods for rest, which includes: short breaks during work hours, sufficient breaks for
meals, nightly rest and weekly rest should be arranged for all workers.
 In the event of injury or illness which requires medical assistance, provision should be
made for quick evacuation.
 In case of emergency, transport or a means of communication should be available at the
worksite to contact rescue services.
 Workers applying hazardous chemicals must receive training and full information on the
risk involved and the use of protective equipment and first-aid techniques.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.9.ARTICLE 11.0 SOCIAL ISSUES

All social issues should be dealt with in the context of GFC code of practice for timber
harvesting. Sustainable forest management is about people and the forest they use. Good social
behavior while managing the forests promotes sound production which develops Guyana’s
economy. The forests need to supply social benefits to enhance sustainable development. The
benefits derived from the existence and management of the forests, and accruing to people living
in and around them may be a prerequisite for the preservation of the forest.

2.9.1. Land and forest use rights and responsibilities

Respect for legal or customary rights to land:
 Mangrove workers shall have legal evidence of their right to operate in a given area
 Mangrove workers shall restrict their forest operations to the area to which they are
legally entitled
 The mangrove authority should be informed of any illegal activity in mangrove areas

Rights of Amerindians:
 The legal, social, and ecological integrity of all Amerindian lands shall be respected
 Disputes over Amerindian land tenure and use rights should be brought to the attention of
the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and Guyana Lands and Surveys commission

Commercial contracts with Amerindian communities:

 Persons desirous of negotiating commercial mangrove contracts with an
Amerindian Council should contact the relevant Amerindian Council and the
Ministry of Amerindian Affairs
 Amerindian Village Councils that are desirous of entering into commercial
forestry contracts should seek advice from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs,
and the mangrove authority

Conflict management between forest operations and local communities:

 Forest operators and elected or recognized community representatives should
use methods of consultation as a first step to resolving any conflict(s) that might
arise before exploring other legal options
 A neutral third party should be invited to facilitate negotiated agreements
between forest operators and communities

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

2.10. ARTICLE 12.0: COMMUNITY AND WORKPLACE

RELATIONS, RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

All community and workplace relations rights and responsibilities should be dealt with in the
framework of GFC code of practice for timber harvesting as set out below. However the
mangrove authority shall be responsible for ensuring the rights and responsibilities are
adequately addressed.

Respect for cultural and traditional values

 Forest operators should give special regard to the cultural and traditional values
of the communities in and adjacent to their operations

Building mutually beneficial partnerships

 Forest management operators should adopt a mechanism for engaging the local
communities, community base organizations and other interest groups in a
dialogue that is aimed at ensuring that socio-economic benefits accrue to the
local population
 All parties have copies of a joint plan
 Local representatives are present at meetings and participate in decision making
 Attention is given to such critical areas as health, education, transportation
 Local population is not totally dependent on the forestry operation and the
services that they provide

Terms and conditions of employment

 Employers shall inform employees of the terms and conditions of service prior
to or at the time they are hired
 Prior to or upon assumption of duties, an employer shall document and inform
employee of his/her wages by task or by day
 Contractors are obliged to adhere to conditions applicable to
employers
 Employers should develop a contract agreement between the
employer and the contractor to include the following:

i. The parties agree that a written agreement between the employer and any
contractor shall be the basis of any engagement with any such contractor
for the purpose of conducting forest operations on the concession area
ii. The employer shall provide a copy of any written agreement with any
contractor(s) for the consideration of the mangrove authority at least one

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

month prior to the desired date of commencement of work by the

contractor(s)
iii. The parties agree that any agreement regarding contractual work in which
the employer is engaged must include the following:

Social Issues:
 an explicit statement that the employer is responsible directly for all actions of the
contractor
 an explicit statement committing the employer and the contractor(s) to full compliance
with the terms of the concession agreement, the provisions of the most recent Forest
Management Plan and the provisions of the most recent Annual Operational Plan where
applicable
 an explicit statement committing the employer to responsibility for the social welfare of
contractors and their families, while such contractors are engaged in the approved
contractual operations
 an explicit provision making clear that there shall be no transfer whatsoever of the
concession, the concession area or any part there of.

iv. The contractor agrees that it will maintain registers of all employees together with
employment records (including PAYE and NIS contributions) and that such registers will be
available for scrutiny by the mangrove authority and employer, and such other agencies

Equal opportunity employment:

 Women and men shall be paid equal remuneration for the same work or work of equal
value
 Employees shall not be discriminated against based on race, sex, religion, colour, ethnic
origin, etc.

Prohibition against forced labour:

 Employers shall ensure fair remuneration and humane working conditions in return for all
services rendered
 Employers shall observe ILO Convention 182 on forced labour

Employment Opportunities for local and forest-dependent populations:

Management should give priority to employing equally qualified persons who live in
communities within or adjacent to the mangrove operation

Education and training for workforce and local populations:

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

 A range of educational and skills training programmes for the purpose of enhancing
workers’ job performance and promotion within the workplace should be made available
on an appropriate basis
 Educational and vocational skills programmes should be made available to communities
within or adjacent to the forest management operation
 Wherever possible, certification for educational and skills training programmes should be
issued by a recognized institution or body

Social security benefits:

 Employers shall provide employees with information on the NIS
 Employers shall make the necessary arrangements for NIS coverage for their employees
 Employers should inform employees about the procedures for recovering damages in
respect of personal injury or in respect of death resulting from personal injury

Recreation:
 Employees shall have the benefit of adequate rest and recreation time and facilities in
keeping with the labour laws of Guyana

Prohibition against child labour:

 Employers shall not knowingly employ persons under the age of 14 years in keeping with
the International Labour Organization Convention 182

Workers right to union representation:

 Employees shall not be prevented from joining a union or association or from negotiating
for wages and conditions with their employers as stipulated under the Trade Union and
Recognition Act No: 32 of 1997

Conflict management in the workplace:

 In the event of an industrial dispute, the relevant parties should first explore to resolve
through management/shop steward discussions. If this step fails then the parties involved
should seek to utilize the mechanisms of conciliation an arbitration

Regulation of occupational safety and health:

 Stipulation in the 1997 Occupational Safety and Health Act shall be observed

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

REFERENCES

1. Aksornkoae, Sanit, 1993. Ecology and Management of Mangroves. IUCN, Bangkok,

Thailand.

2. Allan, C., Williams, S. & Adrian, R. May. 2002. The Socio-economic Context of the
Harvesting and Utilization of Mangrove vegetation. GFC, Guyana

3. Allan, C., Williams, S. & Adrian, R. May. 2002. The Socio-economic Context of the
Harvesting and Utilization of Mangrove vegetation. GFC, Guyana - George Howard
pers. comm. 2002. Personal Communication. Unpublised Field Notes GFC & ICZMC,
(2001) National Mangrove Management Action Plan. Guyana Forestry Commission,
Georgetown.

4. Andel, T. v.1998. Commercial exploitation of non-timber forest products in the North-

West District of Guyana. Caribbean Journal of Agriculture and Natural Resources 2(1):
15-28.

5. Bagarinao T.U. and Primavera J. H. 2005. Code of Practice for Sustainable Use of
Mangrove Ecosystems for Aquaculture in Southeast Asia

6. Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission 1999. Code of practice for forest harvesting in Asia-
Pacific. FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand

7. Dykstra, Dennis P. & Rudolf Heinrich. 1996. FAO model code of harvesting practice.
Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, Rome.

8. EPA. 2000, Integrated Costal Zone Management Action Plan. Environmental

Protection Agency, Government of Guyana, Georgetown.

9. Evans, I. J. 1998 The restoration of mangrove vegetation along the coastal belt of
Guyana M.Sc. Thesis. University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen.

10. FAO. 1994. Mangrove forest management guidelines. FAO Forestry Paper No.117.
Rome.

11. Guyana Forestry Commission. 1998. Code of practice for forest operations. Final
document.

12. Guyana Forestry Commission. 1999. Forest management plan guidelines

13. Guyana Forestry Commission. 2000. Forest zonation in Guyana. Forest Resources
Management Division.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

14. GFC & ICZMC, E. 2001. National Mangrove Management Action Plan. Guyana
Forestry Commission, Georgetown

15. Guyana Forestry Commission. 2002. Code of Practice for timber harvesting. 2nd edition.

16. Guyana Forestry Commission, 2004. Draft Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting.

17. Hussain, M. Z. (1990) Restoration and expansion of the mangrove belt in Guyana.
Technical Paper No. 1. TCP/GUY/8953, FAO, Rome

18. International Labour Office. 1998. Safety and health in forestry work: an ILO code of
practice. ILO,Geneva, Switzerland.

19. Ministry of Agriculture Ministry of Agriculture (2002a) Infrastructure Support. Ministry

of Agriculture. http://www.sdnp.org.gy/minagri/moa_mfcl/moa/index.htm#Sugar

20. Ministry of Agriculture (2002b) Statistics. Ministry of Agriculture.

http://www.sdnp.org.gy/minagri/moa_mfcl/moa/index.htm#Sugar

21. National mangrove Management Plan (Guyana) 2009-2010

22. Pastakia, C.M.R. (1991). A Preliminary Study of the Mangroves of Guyana– Aquatic
Biological; Consultancy Service Ltd.

23. Primavera JH. 2000. Development and conservation of Philippine mangroves:

institutional issues. Ecol. Econ. 35: 91-106.

24. SSPA Project Team (1994) Guyana Shorezone Management Program design &
feasibility study.Guyana Forestry Commission, Georgetown.

25. Snedaker, S.C., and J.G. Snedaker (Eds.). 1984. The mangrove Ecosystem: Research
Methods. Monographs in Oceananic Methodology, UNESCO, Paris.

26. Trevin J. and Nasi R. 2009. Forest Law Enforcement and Governance and Forest
Practices in Guyana. Jalan CIFOR, Situ Gede, Bogor Barat 16115, Indonesia.

41
Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ANNEX I. LEGISLATION GOVERNING MANGROVES IN

GUYANA
ISSUES AND CONCERNS
LAWS, POLICIES, RULES AND REGULATION
ON MANGROVE

Conservation and Protection of Guyana Constitution Article 36 states that in the interest of the present and future
natural resources including generation, the state will protect and make rational use of its land, mineral and water resources,
mangrove as well as its flora and fauna, and will take all appropriate measures to conserve and improve
the environment
The Forests Act 2009 Part 3. 5.23. (1) mandates the EPA to declare a specific area of state
forest to be a specifically protected area for a period not exceeding 25years (a) declare a
specified area of State forest to be a specially protected area for a specified period not
exceeding 25 years ;Purpose of Part 3,5.22 (1 ) is to
1) conserve biological diversity
2) protect specific trees and plants
3) conserve soil and water reserves
4) protect forests from fires, pest, diseases and degradation
Forest Act 2009 Part 3. 5. 30 Minister can make order for protection of trees and plants any
tree or plant, Part 3. 5. 31 Minister can declare private land to be a forest conservation area.
Environmental Protection Act of 1996 mandated that the will provide for the management,
conservation, protection and improvement of the environment,; danger of extinction; (2) any
person who in any marine reserve without permission granted under subsection 3 (b) takes or
destroys any flora and fauna other than fish is guilty of an offence.
Fisheries Act 1957 Part 8, Marine Reserves and Fishing Priority Areas, Section 21. (1). (a) to
afford special protection to the flora and fauna of such areas and to protect and preserve the
natural breeding grounds and habitat of aquatic life with particular regard to flora and fauna in
danger of extinction; (2) any person who in any marine reserve without permission granted
under subsection 3 (b) takes or destroys any flora and fauna other than fish is guilty of an
offence.

Mangrove as Forest
The Forests Act 2009, Part 1 5.2 (b) (1) defines forest with reference to mangroves
Forest Act 2009. Part 1. 5.3. state the Minister can declare public forested land as state
forest
Civil Act Article 4.1 define foreshore of Guyana as the part of the shore of the sea and tidal
navigable rivers which is covered by the medium high tide between the spring tides and the
Mangrove as part of state forest neap tide, the soil under tidal waters called land shall be deemed to be under state land
and as state land Sea Defence Act of 1998 declares that “sea defence includes – any shell bank or reef, sand
bank or reef or other natural feature which serves as a protection of the sea coast against the
erosive action of the river current”. In Part 3 Section 12 of the Act declares that “all sea
defences which are or shall be in existence in any district shall by force of this Act become the
property of the state”.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ISSUES AND CONCERNS

LAWS, POLICIES, RULES AND REGULATION
ON MANGROVE

Jurisdiction over mangrove Environmental Protection Agency states that their functions is to take steps necessary
forest for the effective management of the natural environment so as to ensure conservation,
protection, sustainable use of its natural resources; establish, monitor and enforce the
environmental regulations; assessed environment impact of the project ;and promote
and encourage a better understanding and appreciation of the natural environment and
its role in social and economic development;

Sea Defence Act 1998 defined sea defence as (c, e)“All land fifty (50) feet landwards
from the centre of any sea or river dam or sea or river wall and all land on the other
side of such sea or river dam or sea or river wall in the direction of the sea or river to
the toe of such sea or river wall ; and declares that “sea defence includes – any shell
bank or reef, sand bank or reef or other natural feature which serves as a protection of
the sea coast against the erosive action performed by the Ministry or its agents at the
expense of the Board

Guyana Land and Survey Commission Act mandated the commission to take charge
of and act as guardian over all public lands, rivers and creeks of Guyana,

Municipal and District Council Act Part II Sec. 7 (2) states that the jurisdiction of the
City Council shall extend to low water mark of spring tide of the Demerara River and
to all structure thereon (2) town council shall extend to low water mark of spring tides
of the Berbice River and to all structures. Part IX 302 (19) to plant, trim, preserve or
remove trees, flowers and shrubs in any public places.

Island and embankment The Forests Act 2009 Part 3. 23 (b) prohibiting any disturbance of the soil,
(beach) for protection and vegetation, rivers, or creeks in that specially protected area; and Part 3.31. (1) The
rehabilitation and regulations Minister may by public notice make an order – (a) declaring any forest on private
on cutting and burning land to be a forest conservation area; and (b) prohibiting, restricting, or regulating all
mangroves or any of the following - (i) entry into the forest conservation area (ii) cutting,
damaging, taking, or removing any forest produce in the forest conservation area; (v)
clearing, cultivating, or turning of soil in the forest conservation area; (vi) grazing or
pasturing of livestock in the forest conservation area; (vii) setting of fire in the forest
conservation area; (2) No order may be made except on the advice of the Commission
that the order is necessary for – (a) conserving the forests of Guyana and securing
the proper management of forest land; (b) preventing soil erosion, coastal erosion,
or erosion of the banks of rivers or creeks; (c) preventing the deposit of mud, stones,
or sand in rivers or creeks or on agricultural land; (d) maintaining water supplies in
springs, rivers, canals, reservoirs, aquifers, or water conservancies; (e) minimising the
risk or mitigating the impact of storms, winds, floods, or landslides;

The Environmental Protection Act of 1996 Part 10.68.1 Minister may make
regulations for giving the effect to the provisions of this Act for the protection of
particular species of prescribed fauna and flora (j.) protecting the coastal and
marine resources and establish, monitor and enforce the environmental
regulations

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

Sea Defences Act of 1998 Sec.13 (1) and Sec. 16 (b) mandated to make regulations
for (a) protecting the growth of Underwood, shrubs, and trees, on or near the
foreshore or between high and low water marks (b) and the protection of the land and
soil between high and low marks ; and generally, conserving the foreshore; and require
estate to protect the foreshore by sowing seed, planting shoots to promote the growth of
or the other tree, underwood, or shrubs, between and low water marks on the
foreshore courida

Civil Act Article 4.3 states that no one shall remove any sand, shell, gravel, shingle or
other

mineral substances or any seaweed or vegetation from the lands without the permission
of the Minister responsible for sea defences and are subject to the like penalties.

The Forests Act 2009, Part 3.31. prohibits the cutting, damaging, or taking any forest
produce, or carry out any other kind of forest operation in a State forest; occupy or use
any land in a State forest;

Sea Defence Act of 1998 Sec.13 (1 Sec. 14, 15 and Sec. 16 (b) (a) (b) Sec, 26 states
that everyone who infringes any of the provision of this Act shall be liable on summary
conviction of twenty-two thousand five hundred dollars (G$ 22,500)

Municipal and District Council Act sec. 302( 28). states the power of the council to
regulate the cutting of wood on land vested in the council.

Local Government Act part IV sec 51. Cutting of trees will have fix fees

The Forests Act 2009 Part 3.24., Part 3. 25 (2), Part 6. 68 b.(iv) section 25(2),
section30(3), section 31(4), section 23(5)- prohibits person in any State forest to
throw down a lighted match or lighted or inflammable material; or do anything else
likely to result in any forest produce being burnt or damaged. Penalty range from
G$250,000 to 1,00000

Cattle grazing Municipal and District Council Act sec. 287,290 ( 28). stated the power of the
council to regulate the grazing of animals; impounding the stray animal found in
public places

Local Government Act Part IV sec 50 states that grazing of animals on common land
of the village and in country district will be impound and sec.102 (1-5) straying
animals

Community Involvement and Guyana constitution Article 25 state that every citizen has a duty to participate in
Participation activities designed to improve the environment and protect the health of the nation.

Article 74 (1) states that it is the duty of the Local Democratic to ensure in accordance
with the law the efficient management and development of their areas and to provide
leadership by example (3) to maintain and protect property , improve working and
living condition and raise the level of civic consciousness..

Local Democratic Organs Act Part II Sec. 7 states that duties of the local democratic
organs is (a) maintain and protect property (b) protect and improve the physical
environment (f) raise the level of civic consciousness (awareness)

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ANNEX II: LOGICAL FRAMEWORK OBJECTIVES

ACTIVITIES REQUIRED

# OBJECTIVES
1 To reduce destruction of coastal and riverine mangrove ecosystems, to promote
improved management, and to conserve biodiversity in these ecosystems.
2 Directly protect critical mangrove areas from destruction, degradation and other
anthropogenic activities that have negative impacts on the resource.
3 Promote natural regeneration where possible
4 Recognize, protect and enhance local cultural and social values of mangrove
resources
5 Promote and support traditional management approaches
6 Establish Protected Areas where necessary to protect and conserve mangrove
ecosystems and resources.
7 Implement and enforce buffer zones where necessary.
8 Encourage community participation in management of mangroves.
9 Integrate mangrove management and conservation measures with Integrated
Coastal Zone Management.
10 Develop and implement appropriate policies and strategies for the management
and conservation of mangrove ecosystems and resources
11 Promote research on mangrove ecosystems, species, genetics and habitat functions
12 Promote interagency collaboration in mangrove management
13 Review, strengthen and harmonise appropriate legislation to promote sustainable
utilization of mangroves
14 Develop awareness and education programmes to disseminate information for
better policy conformation and decisions.
15 Empower local communities for participation in management and conservation of
coastal resources.
16 Strengthen stakeholder capacity for their involvement in management and
conservation efforts.
17 Promote sustainable livelihood options
18 Provide education and awareness support

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ANNEX III: EXCERPT FROM CHARTER FOR MANGROVES

The International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) has adopted a Charter for
Mangroves in Bangkok, Thailand, in November 1991. The Charter for Mangroves complements
the World Charter for Nature that the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed on
28th October 1982 affirming that nature shall be respected, genetic viability on earth shall not be
compromised, conservation shall be practiced, sustainable management shall be practised by
man, and nature shall be secured against degradation.
ISME being aware that:
• Mangrove forests are unique intertidal ecosystems that occur primarily in tropical regions of
the world.
• The total worldwide mangrove area is estimated at not less than 170,000 km2 and there are
some sixty species of trees and shrubs that are exclusive to the mangrove habitat.
• Mangroves support genetically diverse communities of terrestrial and aquatic fauna and flora
of direct and indirect environmental, economic, and social value to human societies
throughout the world.
• Sustainable development of mangrove ecosystem implies the maintenance and rational use of
the natural resource to ensure ecological resilience and economic opportunities for present
and future generations.
• Mangroves must be conserved in various parts of the world to prevent the occurrence of
degraded coastal lands.

Convinced that:
• Destruction and degradation of mangrove forests are worldwide phenomena as a result of
activities related to the non-sustainable use and overexploitation.
• The value of mangrove lands is consistently underestimated when the areas are converted for
non-sustainable purposes
• The sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems would provide a better use of the resource.
• There is an urgent need to restore degraded mangrove ecosystems for economic, social and
conservation reasons.

Persuaded that:
• Mangroves are a valuable natural resource with distinctive genetic diversity, high intrinsic
natural productivity and unique habitat value.
• Mangroves sustain important economic and ecological values in adjacent terrestrial and
marine systems.
• Mangroves play an important role in the economic and social resources available to
subsistence coastal dwellers in the tropics.
• Mangroves play an important role in coastal protection and in the reduction of coastal
erosion.
• Mangroves buffer coastal waters from undesirable land-based influences, such as sediment,
contaminant or nutrient runoff.

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Code of Practice for Mangrove Harvesting

ANNEX IV: INTERVIEWS/OBSERVATIONS

Information from interviews at Mabaruma, Imbatero, Waini, Aruka, Mora Passage,

Shell Beach – North West District
Current Harvesting Procedure for Bark Production (Demonstrated by Philbert Sam)

Tree selection

a. The Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove) is the species selected for bark production
b. The tree is selected for its relatively straight bole and based on ‘sounding’ by hitting it
with the dull end of the axe. The dull sound of the tree is indicative of a tree that is
eligible to be cut. A hollow sound indicates a tree with a thin bark (ineligible for
harvesting)
c. This earmark tree is however further tested by cutting a small diamond shape bark to
check for bark thickness (≥1.2cm ). If the tree meets the criteria it is selected for felling.

Felling

a. The tree is felled from the highest stilt root or 1m from the ground
b. There is haphazard felling – the nearest eligible tree
c. Felling is not done by chainsaw (only by axe)
d. Harvesting implements: cutlass, axe, beater
e. Harvesting is done within a 200m distance from the river
f. Three persons can debark one tree within an hour
g. An average of 10 trees can be harvested per day by three (3) persons

Debarking

a. Sections of the tree along the length of the bole and the larger stems are cut around the
bark at 60-75 cm intervals – this is called marking the tree.
b. A ‘beater’ made out of the red mangrove stilt root is carved out (sickle-shaped) and used
to beat off the bark in the different segments
c. The remainder of the tree is left on the ground

Transportation

a. A one-metre wide extraction route is cut and small young slender stems 15-20 cm in
diameter are cut to make a footpath to the waiting boat. The bark is strapped together in
bundles of ten pieces and stacked in the boat.

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b. This is then transported to the wharf and put in bags ranging from 40- 54Kg (88-120lbs).
Sometimes larger bags are stacked from 68-80kg (150 -175 lbs)

Information Collected
1. Current harvesting is being done in the Barima

2. Harvesting is done throughout the year

3. Three persons can harvest bark from a large tree in one hour

4. Eight to ten trees can be harvested per day

5. Average bark production from one large tree was 350 – 450lbs)

6. Large bags of bark weigh as much as 150 -175lbs

7. Small bags as much as 90- 115lbs

8. Production four years ago – 200-300bags per fortnight; currently it is 15-50bags/fortnight

9. Producers got out of business because of the low price (G$5.00/lb) and the tannin
substitute (stein) was imported from Brazil. Current price is (G$6.00/lb)

10. The harvesting procedure was demonstrated and explained by Mr. Philbert Sam and
photos were taken at each stage of the process. The photos are part of the student’s
project and cannot be displayed here.

11. Regeneration is good in gaps after 3-4months (area completely filled with seedlings 30-
40cm)

12. The remaining debris left uncut and greatly reduced regeneration in the spot where they
remained

13. Tanners still prefer the bark and once it is available will use it because of the good quality
of the tanning that it does. In addition the import from Brazil is expensive.

14. Persons living in the area expressed the view that they are willing to get back into bark
production because it provided a livelihood, but need to have a good price ($12.00-
$15.00/lb).

Personal Contacts and Interviewees: Ernest Santiago (former producer); James Calistro-
Aka/Old man), Philbert Sam (current producer), Terrence Rufino - Aka/Khan (former producer);
Dereck Chacon (former producer);Venus Wilson (purchaser) representing the SFP holder Hazel
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Jericho; Neville Neblette (bark purchaser)Janice Jack (teacher – Imbtero (St. Cyprians Primary
School).

Information from brick makers’ No. 51 and No.52 Villages Corentyne

1. The production of burnt earth for road construction is low as a result of alternative road
building material ‘chip seal’.

2. When the black mangroves are cut with chainsaw it does not coppice (resprout) but with
the axe there is early resprouting and good regeneration in the cut area.

3. The trees cut for this purpose range from 150 - >250 cm in girth.
4. Freshly cut trees (wood) that is needed for the burnt earth process, because it gives a blue
flame that produces larger and more solid bricks than any other wood.

5. Black mangroves were previously harvested (5years ago) at the rate of 2

trees/week/person. The current rate is 2-4 trees per month/person.

6. Level of harvesting currently did not negatively affect the mangrove area. Natural erosion
destroying the mangrove trees

7. Brick makers use a mixture of hard wood from the sawmills and old trees along with the
black mangroves.

8. Regeneration is not a problem in the cut areas - within 2 months there are hundreds of
seedlings about 10cm tall.

9. Seedling regeneration density approximately 50-80 seedlings per sq. metre - in gaps of
different ages (2 and 4- month old gaps).
Personal contacts: Edward DeSantos Aka/Bruce Lee- no. 51 ( Rice farmer/former brick maker
for over 20 years);Ms C. Harvey – No. 52 ( Rice farmer and brick maker);Leslie Johnson – No.
51 (largest brick maker for over 8 years) – explained the burnt earth process; Elina Thatcher No.
51 (brick maker and rice farmer);David Thatcher No.51(brick maker)

Interviews with Fishermen/Coastal Dwellers in Regions 3,4 & 6

1. Fishermen cut black mangroves for seine 10-20 cm in diameter 7-9meters long

2. Eight (8) to twelve (12) poles are cut per fisherman every four months.

3. Do not know all the benefits of mangroves

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4. All fishermen knew that mangroves protect them from the sea

5. All fishermen knew that loss of mangrove areas meant loss of fish catch.

6. Felt that the level of harvest did not affect the mangroves.

7. Minimal use of mangrove stems for farming.

Personal Contact: Sixty-four fishermen and coastal dwellers at: No. 42 Corentyne; Canjie
Corentyne – Region #6; Mahaica – Region #4; Greenfield – Region #4; Hope- Region #4; Mon
Repos – Region #4; Winsdor Forest – Region #3; Parika – Region #3; Leguan Island – Region
#3; Wakenaam – Region #3.

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APPENDIX V Regional stakeholders’ Consultations

Dates: April 16 - May 28 2010 Total number of persons registered: 497

Date Region Location Places represented No. of Persons

April 16, 2 AnnaRegi Charity, Reliance, Bush Lot, Adventure, Better Success, Devonshire 81
2010 na,Esseq Castle, Anna Regina, Dartmouth, Airy Hall, Mainstay, Affiance,
Bounty Hall, Pomona, Queenstown, Golden Fleece, Cotton Filed,
Lima, Suddie, Henrietta, Pomeroon River, Three Friends, Tapakuma,
Windsor Castle, Cullen, Hampton Court, Onderneering

April 23, 6 # 63 Rosignol, New Amsterdam, Bath, N0. 68 Village, No. 51 Village,
2010 Village, No, 62 Village, No. 60 Village, Bloomfield, No. 6 Village, Kildonar, 104
East No. 52 Village, No. 64 Village, Edinburg, Skeldon, No. 58 Village,
Berbice No. 54 Village, Nurney Village, Springlands, Corriverton, Black
Bush Polder, Brothers Village, Rose Hall, No. 17 Village,
Queenstown, Crabwood Creek, Eversham Village, Williamsburg,
Tain, No. 70 Village, Albion, Cane Field, Kilroy, No. 69 Village,
Adventure, Hamshire, Bush lot

April 30, 3 Crane, Zeelugt, Cornelia Ida, Parika, Verngenogen, La’Union, Best, Klien 111
2010 West Pouderoyen, Anna Catherina, Windsor Forest, La Jalousie, Vreed-en-
Coast Hoop, Greenwich Park, Rumzeight, Zeeburg, Crane, Stewartville,
Demerara Vergenoegen, Tuschen, DeKenderen, Den Amstel, Farm Village,

May 7, 4 Mon Cane Grove, Mon Repos, Chateau Margot, Enterprise, Golden Grove, 90
2010 Repos, Kuru Kururu, Better Hope, Bladen Hall, Vigilance, Foulis, Tuschen,
East Coast Nabacalis, East LaPenitance, Enmore, Friendship, Patentia,
Demerara Haslington, Triumph, Victoria, Lusignan,

May 14, 5 # 28 No. 28 Village, No. 3 Vilalge, No. 30 Village, Bath, No. 29 Village, 59
2010 Village, Woodley Park, Blairmont, Lichfield, Perth, Hopetown, Golden
West Cost Grove, Cotton Tree, Onverwagt, Lovely Lass, Dundee, No. 29
Berbice Vilalge, No. 30 Village, Shieldstown Settlement, Brittania Village,

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