DarwinNet is a binational, cross-border initiative, which attempts to gather, analyze, and spread information on the biodiversity of the dry tropical forests of northwest Peru and southwest Ecuador. The information collected by DarwinNet fulfills obligations of both nations under the Convention on Biological Diversity, as well as the national strategies of biodiversity of both countries, and the Regional Strategy on Biodiversity of the Andean Community of Nations.
Mechanism for Accessing Information in Dry Forests of Peru and Ecuador
DarwinNet works to improve access, exchange, and transference of information on the dry forests to regional, national, and international levels; introduce mechanisms for distributing and communicating information; increase capacities, consciousness, and interest in the region; systematize relevant information about the region; and increase communications among key actors.
During this phase, DarwinNet accomplished the following prepared 15 plans of action for conservation of endangered species and established an online database with information on contacts and experts, supported environmental education activities in both countries and cooperation in management of dry forests by work groups, with national and local governments, universities, NGOs, communities, mass media, and protected area management committees.
Areas of Importance for the Conservation of Birds in the Tumbesian Region
During this second phase, the initiative intends to strengthen capacities of the different actors (communities, institutions, and managers of reserves) of 10 “important bird areas” in communication and free exchange of information on the conservation of the ecosystem. The following activities have been completed to date:
• Diagnosed community experience and information needs for selected important bird areas and facilitation of internships and exchanges to increase experience in production of goat cheese, construction and implementation of forest greenhouses, apiculture, a program of voluntary national park rangers, and community ecotourism.
• Organized the second coordination meeting for control of cross-border traffic of species of flora and fauna from the dry forest, held in the city of Tumbes.
• Supported communities in participating and presenting their experiences in events with both the Coast Network Ecuador and Regional Government of Piura.
Donors: Darwin Initiative - British Government
