An increase in the number of flora and fauna was observed during the biodiversity monitoring in Maulawin Spring Protected Landscape (MSPL) in Guinayangan, Quezon for the first quarter of 2023.

The Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) staff for MSPL conducted Biodiversity Monitoring System (BMS) activities within the established 14 stations and transects located in the Strict Protection Zone and Multiple-Use Zone of the said protected area.

BMS aims to improve the information available for decision-makers in protected areas through the regular collection of data on natural biological resources and their utilization. Its focus is to identify trends in biodiversity and its use, to guide action in protected area management. Among the methods used by the BMS composite team were a transect walk, field diary, photo documentation, and determination of environmental conditions.

Accordingly, results of the conducted monitoring along the established transect routes revealed a rise in the number of flora (plant species), while the fauna (animal species) has also increased from 59 to 85 species. Moreover, threatened wildlife species were still observed thriving in the protected area.

Physical parameters, such as water pH, water temperature, and total dissolved solids in the two rivers and springs located within the protected area including the Maulawin and Hiwasayan rivers were measured. The recorded data shows that the potable water resources of MSPL are within the allowable values. However, continuous monitoring is necessary for the conservation of water resources.

Moreover, a Focus Group Discussion within the Community Monitoring Group was held in Brgy. Himbubulo Weste, Guinayangan, Quezon. It aims to solicit data regarding the status of wildlife in their area and to determine the threat to the resources caused by anthropogenic inputs. The latter allows the community to serve as partners of DENR for the protection of MSPL and also is intended to improve the participation of protected area communities in protected area management.

The next BMS activity in the protected area will be conducted on the last quarter of 2023.

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Parent Category: News & Events
Category: Photo Releases
Published: 28 March 2023