How Bachtiar, an aquaculture farmer is restoring mangroves in Indonesia
This is the story of Bachtiar, an aquaculture farmer in North Kalimantan, Indonesia. Bachtiar’s fish pond was created by clearing large areas of mangroves. Over time, the change in this ecosystem affected his yield too. Stagnated water reduced populations of fish, crab and shrimp.
Bachtiar was introduced to Ecological Mangrove Restoration through Wetlands International’s field work at Liagu and began restoring water flow in his degraded pond. This method allows for mangroves to thrive naturally without the need for planting seedlings. By restoring the hydrology of the area and allowing for fresh and saltwater to mix once more, the mangroves have naturally come back to life. And so has life underwater. Crab yields improved.
Neighbouring farmers started asking what he was doing differently. He started explaining, then demonstrating, then teaching. Bachtiar shows how best practice spreads when results are visible and the messenger is someone others already know and trust.
Bachtiar now enjoys plentiful catches. And is now a pioneer of Ecological Mangrove Restoration, sharing his work and knowledge to communities across North Kalimantan.
