Indigenous peoples' wetlands program

摘要

TROPICAL wetlands are vital to the survival of many indigenous cultures throughout the world. Their abundance of plants and animals provides a rich resource. In the Northern Territory, many wetlands continue to be protected and managed by indigenous people using their special knowledge, ceremonies, declaration of sacred dreaming sites — and fire. Adverse changes have occurred since European settlement, particularly through the introduction of alien animals and plants. Early in 1996, the Top End Indigenous Peoples Wetlands Program was introduced to assist Aboriginal communities prepare management plans for Arnhem Land. Total catchment management was adopted as the main strategy. It is coordinated between regions. Communities control the planning and implementation of wetlands management in their own areas.