2nd Session @ Sama Jaya Nature Reserve

Learning about the forest type

This session introduce the kids to the varieties of forest in Sarawak namely Beach Forest, Mangrove Forest, Peat Swamp Forest, Heath Forest or Kerangas Forest, Riverine Forest, Mixed Dipterocarp Forest, Montane Forest & Lime stone forest. Each forest is different due to three main explanations namely type of soil, climate and topography.

The kids learning the layer of Mixed Dipterocarp Forest (MDF)

In addition, the kids also gain introductory knowledge about the Sarawak’s forest that is zoned as the Permanent Forest Reserve (PFR) and Totally Protected Area (TPA). Based on the Forests Ordinance 1958, PFR is meant for sustainable forest management. There are 3 categories of PFR namely Forest Reserve, Protected Forest and Communal Forest.

The Totally Protected Area conversely is designated and established under the provisions of the National Parks Ordinance, 1956 and Wild Life Protection Ordinance, 1958 to generate sustainable benefits for the society. Their roles include conservation, preservation and protection of diverse biodiversity, specific natural geological or physiographical features or archeological site on land and in areas beneath the territorial waters of the State land for recreational, educational and affording opportunities for public appreciation, enjoyment, interest. There are also three categories of TPA namely National Parks, Nature Reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries.

At the end of the session, the kids get the opportunity to explore the Heath or Kerangas Forest in the Malaysiana Trail at Sama Jaya Nature Reserve. Kerangas is an Iban word which implies poor soils & dry. Trees are small, straight & pole like. Height is from 25-30m. The under storey is fairly dense where small shrubs, saplings & palms grow in. Trees have thick bark & small leathery leaves to cut down water loss. Small mammals, squirrel, rat, birds, insects can also be found in this forest.

One of the facilitator explaining about Kerangas Forest

To end the session, the kids also get the opportunity to visit the Bamboo and the

Forest Biology Museum in Samajaya Nature Reserves.

For more photos, please refer to Page :http://juniorwildliferanger.blogspot.com/p/matang-wlc-facilitator-in-action.html