The Ministry of Forestry is urging members of the public and visitors to help safeguard the Taveuni Forest Reserve and protect the Tagimoucia, a plant of unique cultural and environmental significance to Fiji.

Anyone intending to enter the Taveuni Forest Reserve is advised to first visit the Forestry Office in Taveuni and obtain the necessary permission before entering the reserve.

The Ministry is reminding the public that activities such as entering without authorisation, cutting or damaging plants, and uprooting or removing vegetation are prohibited.

The Tagimoucia plant must also not be cut, damaged, uprooted or removed.

The Ministry says protecting the forest reserve is a shared responsibility and is encouraging anyone who witnesses illegal activity in the area to report it immediately.

Reports or further information can be directed to Principal Forestry Officer for the Northern Division, Mr Maleli Nakasava, on 992 8983 via mobile or Viber.

The Ministry is calling on everyone to play their part in preserving Taveuni’s forests and the Tagimoucia for future generations.