MARGAO: Work on setting up the Marine Wildlife Range (MWR) in South Goa, which will focus on the protection of dolphins, turtles, crocodiles and other indigenous species of aquatic fauna, is underway, said officials from the Forest Department.
South Goa MWR Range Forest Officer (RFO) Vivek Gaonkar said the range has been set up in the district for marine life conservation along the ocean and the rivers. There are five beats in the range, which have five forest guards and 13 staff members.
He said that the Department is focusing on Galgibag beach as it is the season for Olive Ridley Turtles to lay their eggs, following which the eggs are kept at the hatchery that is constantly patrolled. He also pointed out that there are huts at Talpona, Agonda and Galgibag for turtle conservation.
Incidentally, the Forest Department’s wildlife and ecotourism division recently organised a workshop on the safety of sea turtles in association with Reef Watch Marine Conservation. Similar programmes for fishermen will also be held so that awareness is created among the community on the importance of the conservation of marine wildlife.
