Suffolk Reporter

A fire in Madagascar's Ranomafana National Park recently posed a significant threat to the habitat of rare lemurs and other wildlife. The Centre ValBio, affiliated with Stony Brook University, joined forces with local residents, park rangers, gendarmes, and the military to combat the blaze.

The fire impacted over 600 acres due to dry conditions and strong winds. Patricia Wright, a professor at Stony Brook University and executive director of Centre ValBio Research Station, highlighted the unusual lack of rain during Madagascar’s rainy season. “Everything in the rainforest is wilted and dry,” she stated.

On January 8, more than 1,500 community members worked tirelessly to contain the fire by creating firebreaks and using basic tools. Wright expressed her concerns: “To see the fire, and feel the frustration of having such a big fire in a place with no rivers, is sad.”

The flames threatened nearby Vohiparara village and affected many animals. Fortunately, rainfall on January 14 helped extinguish the fire. Wright reported that "122 hectares of forest burned inside of Ranomafana National Park" for the first time within its boundaries.

A team from Centre ValBio has been dispatched to assess damage and gather data for future restoration plans. They are also considering strategies to prevent similar incidents. The organization has received donations for supporting those fighting the fire and purchasing necessary supplies.

Wright acknowledged these contributions: “We are grateful to all who have donated toward our efforts.” Donations can be made online through the Stony Brook Foundation website by specifying “RNP-2025FIRE” for contributions aimed at alleviating this crisis.