Foundation for Ecological Research, Advocacy and Learning

Learning goes hand in hand with any activity. Unless one has an open mind and is willing to learn new technologies, methods and vice versa and pass on these skills, research (applied and core) loses its charm and becomes a self centred affair. Thus developing our own skills and passing these on through intensive training programs is key to our functioning. Training and development ranges from statistics, database management, field and social surveys, and basic concepts of GIS.

Classroom sessionsThe applications of Geographical Information Systems are becoming common in almost all walks of life, yet it remains elusive to a majority of individuals. This is due to inadequate number of training centres and also the exorbitant fees charged for such courses. GIS also has an aura of 'high tech' around it and the common understanding is that it requires high levels of skill and expensive software. FERAL aims to dispel this myth and to introduce the user to simple software that can serve most of the basic applications required.

Field surveys are an essential part of any study that is being carried. The testing of a hypothesis depends a lot on the field methods employed and the analysis that is carried out subsequently. Emphasis is laid on developing protocols for data collection and database management. Integrating different data collection methods for better planning also form part of the methodology design.

Several activities are being initiated with schools in the region. These range from nature clubs to introductory GIS courses. These activities are run mainly as a voluntary effort by Feral staff and friends. Funds are solicited for equipment for schools and preparation of training manuals. If you are interested in contributing to our efforts, contact Anupama. Capacity Building in Monitoring and Planning.

FERAL has been building capacities both at the rural and organisational level to assist implementation of various conservation projects. The aim of this activity is to build capacities of village communities for planning and monitoring various conservation activities. Apprentices are trained in simple and accurate data collection methods, collation, analysis and presentation of finding to enable better decision making. Conservation activities that have been our focus include tank rehabilitation and management; watershed development; soil and water conservation and forest management.

We have also been active in monitoring various community based participatory projects. We believe that it is necessary to understand and work in conjunction with communities in a human dominated landscape. This has become necessary in order to avoid and dispel conflicts that arise while implementing conservation projects.