North Sulawesi Province represents one of Indonesia’s most ecologically significant regions. Situated within the island of Sulawesi, part of the globally recognized Wallacea—one of the world’s 36 biodiversity hotspots. This unique landscape is characterized by remarkable levels of endemism, where the vast majority of mammal species, a significant proportion of bird species, and most amphibians are found nowhere else on Earth. The region also lies at the center of the Coral Triangle, an area renowned for its unparalleled marine diversity, encompassing vibrant coral reefs, extensive seagrass meadows, and vital mangrove ecosystems.
Since 1995, WCS Indonesia has been actively engaged in North Sulawesi, beginning with biodiversity surveys in the Tangkoko Nature Reserve. Over the years, this engagement has evolved into a long-term commitment to conservation and sustainable resource management. In close collaboration with the North Sulawesi Natural Resources Conservation Agency, the program contributes to the protection of endangered species through systematic population monitoring and the management of key nesting sites of maleo, including those in Batumanangis and Tanjung Binerean, which are critical for the survival of the bird. Efforts to address illegal wildlife hunting and trade are also an integral part of this work. Through coordinated patrols, monitoring of hunting activities, and strengthened prevention measures, including the deployment of wildlife detection dogs (WDD), the program supports authorities in safeguarding biodiversity from ongoing threats.
In the marine sector, WCS Indonesia extends its support to the management of four Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), which collectively encompass thousands of hectares of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. These ecosystems not only sustain marine biodiversity but also underpin local livelihoods. Complementing conservation efforts, the program promotes sustainable fisheries management in key areas such as Sangihe Island and the Sulawesi Sea, focusing on commercially important species including snapper, grouper, and small pelagic fish.
Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the initiative also strengthens community-based management approaches. This includes supporting local monitoring groups and tourism awareness groups through ongoing training and capacity building. Across multiple villages, efforts are directed toward fostering sustainable livelihoods by enhancing the skills of fishers, tourism operators, and women’s groups, enabling the development of small-scale enterprises that align with conservation objectives. Through these integrated efforts, WCS Indonesia in North Sulawesi continues to demonstrate how biodiversity conservation and community development can be advanced in parallel, creating a foundation for long-term environmental sustainability and inclusive economic growth.