from the perimeter of the protected area to the landscape between sacred groves. These ten scared groves were sampled for their biodiversity. Inventories were done for each grove by doing a rapid assessment of biodiversity in more than one taxon. The selected groves sampled were very variable in size and each grove had variations from the level of disturbance from high to low; some sacred groves were patchy. In each grove the forest structural studies were done. Four transects of 25 x 4 meters were laid and all trees above 30cm girth at breast were recorded. The dominant species were recorded. Regeneration studies were done at each grove. The flora included trees, shrubs, herbs and climbers. Birds, butterflies and mammals (mostly indirect evidence) were recorded. The forestry college, Ponnampete undertook the primary research for the project. To calculate species richness, the shannon diversity index was used. B. Questionnaires Semi structured interviews were conducted to assess the cultural and management approach for each of the selected sacred groves. In each grove the head/Committee leader was approached to carry out the questioning, seek permission for research and other devarakadu related activities. The info graphic below indicates the flow of activities executed as part of this initiative resulting into collective efforts to document, protect and make sacred groves a learning centre for rural students. C. Capacity Building This approach was used to impart the knowledge and awareness of sacred groves such as its importance, biodiversity, ecological services, and ethical services to various stakeholders–forest department officials, teachers, students, and the community. The duration of the capacity building ranged from 3 hours to 8 hours and specific modules for each target group was developed and followed for the same. Fig.1 Map of Kodagu and study area Fig.2 Enumeration of species Fig.3 The flowchart of collective activities between multi stakeholders 192 Proceedings of the International Conference on Climate Change, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Policy and Practice 27-29 June 2016, Cha-am, Phetchaburi, Thailand
Proceedings of International Conference on Climate Change, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services for the Sustainable Development Goals : Policy and Practice 27-29 June 2016 at the Sirindhorn International Environmental Park, Cha-am, Phetchaburi, Thailand
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