Osmose, a not-for-profit association, has implemented a pilot conservation and development project in 3 floating villages of the Prek Toal area, Tonle Sap Lake. The site is critical for the survival of several species of endangered waterbirds. The project aims to link preservation of waterbird colonies to the sustainable development of local communities. In addition to saving seven bird species from extinction, over 130 families benefit from our project.
Osmose
Who we are
Linking community-based conservation,
ecotourism & environmental education
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In essence, our program is an environmental awareness endeavour combining short-term priorities (saving the bird colonies from extinction), long-term ownership building (environmental education) and economic incentives (direct and indirect benefits to target groups).
What we do
Through a jointly managed program with the
Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Osmose
has developed an integrated approach through
three types of programmes:
Conservation: close protection of waterbird
colonies by a local conservation team
employing 25 villagers, half of them being
former bird collectors
Education: indoor and outdoor environmental
classes for over 1,100 children, instilling
care and appreciation for their natural
environment
Ecotourism: organisation of guided tours to
the bird sanctuary and floating villages for
small groups aiming to provide alternative
income-generating activities for villagers
In addition, we have developed a floating
gardens project to assist 54 families in
growing products for both consumption and
sale. We also support the revival of local
knowledge of water hyacinth weaving, which
the community sells as handicrafts. This has
helped to improve the livelihoods of 24
village women and to reduce the spread of
water hyacinth on the lake. We also provide
health and schooling assistance to the
poorest families.
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What you can experience
Take a tour on the great Tonle Sap Lake to see Prek Toal Wildlife
Sanctuary and the endangered bird species of Cambodia. This includes
tours of the floating villages and other points of interest such as
crocodile farm, pagoda and observation of fishing techniques.
Visit the Osmose office in Siem Reap to learn more about what we do.
Purchase publications, posters or village handicrafts woven from water
hyacinth and support a valuable project.
Contact us
Telephone: 012 832 812
Email: osmose@online.com.kh
Sourced: Stay Another Day
