Chapter 13 - Community-Based Conservation on the Huon Peninsula

Abstract

The Huon Peninsula boasts a number of endemic species existing nowhere else on earth. Among these is the Matschie's tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus matschiei), the flagship species of the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program (TKCP) and the YUS Conservation Area. Together with the customary landowners, the PNG government, and Woodland Park Zoo, the TKCP helped to establish the country's first nationally-recognized Conservation Area in 2009. Covering an area of 158,271ha, the YUS Conservation Area aims to afford protection for not only the Matschie's tree kangaroo, but also habitat and cultural inheritance. This community-based conservation model, couples protected area management with investments into community livelihoods, health, and education affording a broader and more resilient impact for effective long-term in situ conservation. The YUS Conservation Area has proven an appropriate model for Papua New Guinea through the use of successful partnerships and the devolution of decision-making to customary landowners.