PT Newmont Minahasa Marine Habitat Enhancement Program Photos.

Unsustainable fishing practices (principally poisoning and bombing) have resulted in degradation of reefs in the coastal region of North Sulawesi. Harvesting of mangroves for construction materials has also resulted in significant degradation of this important fish nursery and feeding habitat. Newmont Mining Corporation operates the Minahasa Gold Mine in North Sulawesi, Republic of Indonesia. Working with local communities and partners, Newmont has developed and is currently implementing the Marine Habitat Enhancement Program as a part of the Integrated Sustainable Development Program for the local area. Two key elements of this program are the Reef Ball (development of artificial reefs) and Mangrove Rehabilitation projects. The Reef Ball Project is the largest of its kind conducted by the private sector to date. These projects are being conducted in conjunction with micro-financing and training programs for local fishermen and women and other coastal conservation programs such as the Water Police and the Coastal Clean-up programs.