The people of Kadavu could soon become a model for other Pacific Island nations after Birdlife International introduced a new conservation initiative on the island that could help protect forests in island countries around the region.

Birdlife International senior advisor James Millet said the initiative was launched at a three day workshop on the island that has focused on the introduction of a model farm and forest restoration programme.

The programme was held at Lomati village, which is the home to Mount Nabukelevu, the largest area of mountain forest on the island and also home to four bird species found only on Kadavu.

The initial two acre demonstration farm, located near Lomati village was created to show how soil conservation and productivity can be improved on land in villages, thus reducing pressure for further forest clearance for farming.

Millet said at the workshop, a forest restoration programme was implemented and the people of Nabukelevu village have been encouraged to grow and replant native trees including sandalwood which in turn is aimed at improving the livelihood of the people.