Reforesting construction and service wood (COS) to preserve the humid forests of the Northern Highlands
The humid forests of the Andapa Basin remain constantly exposed to pressures linked to illegal logging. A persistent threat, fueled by the growing demand for construction and service wood (COS), as well as a significant increase in charcoal production.
Construction and service wood, or COS, is intended to provide raw materials such as poles, planks, or beams, essential for construction and carpentry needs. It also supplies wood for energy needs and charcoal production.
Through community patrols, local communities take it upon themselves to monitor and detect cases of illegal wood collection within the forests. In 2024, a total of 87 patrols were conducted across the 11 community-based organizations (CBOs) of the Andapa Basin (39 during the first semester and 48 during the second), resulting in the detection of 153 cases. The increase in the number of patrols in 2025 ensured better territorial coverage and consequently helped reduce pressure and limit the intensity of illegal activities in the targeted sites. The first semester of 2025 thus recorded 86 patrols with 56 cases detected, representing 0.65 cases per patrol (less than one case detected per patrol) — the lowest rate observed since 2023. This significant decrease demonstrates the effectiveness of reinforced monitoring efforts that have contributed to reducing illegal activities in the covered areas.
Beyond patrols, local communities have further strengthened their commitment to forest protection by reforesting COS wood. They demonstrated growing interest in this initiative by planting a total area of 154.3 hectares from 2022 to 2025, while the initial objective was only 50 hectares, with species adapted to local needs: Vintanona (Calophyllum sp.), Tsararavina (Intsia bijuga), Mandrorofo (Hymenaea verrucosa). These different species, with diverse characteristics, provide wood for construction, cabinetmaking, and carpentry needs. They can also supply wood for energy use or for charcoal production for cooking. This outcome reflects a collective awareness and a strong commitment to restoring forest resources and fighting illegal logging.
WWF supported the communities in the production of seedlings, as well as in the implementation of reforestation activities and the monitoring of reforested plots, including the establishment of nurseries.
