The concept for a Bio Garden at the MLC stems from the demand for fresh produce, not grown in the Manu area, that is currently imported from Cusco. Not only is much of the imported produce too expensive for locals to buy but also the carbon footprint associated with food transport is undesirable for an organisation that espouses conservation and sustainability.

The aim of the Bio Garden is to design a sustainable model for the small scale subsistence farming of produce using the introduction of suitable vegetable crops and the implementation of a variety of techniques including; improved composting, crop bio diversification, natural pest control, natural methods of protection from the elements (e.g. using fruit trees to provide partial shading from the strength of the sun) and cooperative strategies to maximise crop output.

In addition to growing vegetables, the Bio Garden will also include a tree nursery to be used for the Reforestation Project. This project aims to help in the regeneration of areas of forest that have been cleared for agriculture and timber while at the same time contributing towards CREES' objective of offsetting the carbon impact of the MLC.

Stage 1: Creation of a bio-garden and tree nursery
A composting system will be set up using bio-waste from the MLC to provide the nutrient rich soils required for growing vegetables. A suitable location for the bio-garden and tree nursery will then be selected and plots marked off to protect from pests.

Stage 2: Identification and Impact Assessment of Vegetable Types
An impact assessment will be undertaken to establish possible risks and effects of introduction of non-native vegetables to the MLC. Suitable vegetable types that meet the required criteria will then be selected for propagation.

Stage 3: Collection and identification of plants and seedlings (for reforestation)
Plants and seedlings will be selected, according to forest types of reforestation areas, for propagation.

Stage 4: Bio-Garden Monitoring
Monitoring protocols will be established for the study of plant growth and pest resistance.

Stage 5: Establishment of Bio-Gardens for local farmers
Once a successful model has been established at the MLC, a plan to implement bio-gardens for local farmers will be defined and implemented.

• Bachelors in Agronomy
• English / Spanish Languages
  

Click here to learn more about the application process for Resident Naturalists.

Volunteers can assist the Project Manager and Resident Naturalists in all stages of the Bio Garden & Reforestation Programme.

In the event that volunteers have skills that are specifically applicable to the project, the Project Manager will seek to apply them appropriately.

There are a number of tasks involved in most elements of the Bio Garden & Reforestation Programme that volunteers can get involved in regardless of prior knowledge and experience.

Necessary training and supervision is provided.

Involvement in the project as a volunteer is subject to the statutory one-month minimum stay at the MLC.

Click here to learn more about how to volunteer.