living The village with a green thumb A biological survey in the conservation area by the Department of Conservation and Environment in 1989 recorded 32 bird species. In 2009, a scientific report by the PNG Institute of Biological Research further identified the presence of many birds of interest, including the superb bird of paradise and the black sicklebill. A guesthouse has been built in the conservation area to provide accommodation for researchers and environmentalists. This area is also great for bird watching. Hogave villagers have benefited from 4.5-kilometre water supply system that has been developed as part of the conservation effort. The system provides clean water throughout the entire village of 800 people, and a similar project has been completed for the neighboring Beha village. Other projects flowing from the conservation initiative include publication of a handbook on caring for the environment, donations to the community elementary school, health
88 Paradise – Air Niugini’s in-flight magazine
A sign of the times ... conservation has been embraced by Hogave village in the Eastern Highlands.
education and the reviving of a traditional salt-making custom. Recently, a mini-hydroelectric power plant has been completed with the help of the Hans
Conservation
Wilsdorf Foundation of Switzerland that recognised the efforts of the community in its battle against global warming and greenhouse effects. The power plant provides improves the standard of living and encourages villagers to build permanent dwellings. It will also serve to decrease rural urban drift. The mini-hydro produces 20 kilowatts of electricity and was constructed using one of the fast-flowing rivers near Netuafi Falls. The feat was achieved with assistance from Cross-Hands Australia and enthusiastic young men from the community, who carried heavy equipment and materials through rough terrain. Kima believes there is an opportunity to extend the conservation area. “The total forest area around Mount Michael is more than 100 square kilometres, and it is hoped that other tribes and clans who have ownership rights to the forest will join in the efforts to conserve their heritage.”