What can be done

Although it seems that there is little hope in restoring Madagascar’s tropical rainforests, there are still many things that can be done to slowly save them! We can introduce new agricultural techniques, promote ecotourism, expand protected areas, increase surveillance, train scientists and guides, and establish programs to educate people.

1. New agricultural techniques such as Savoka gardens can replace old subsistence agriculture. These gardens through careful selection of trees and plants that re-enriches the soil are planted on uncultivated tavy plots. Not only does it re-enrich the soil, but it produces a stable amount of food crops and other functional products. Savoka gardens also maintain forest systems, soils, and biological diversity at a much higher level than typical agricultural techniques.
2. By promoting ecotourism, local people would be more willing to conserve the environment around them because tourists pay to see the beauty of the country. This can provide substantial amounts of income to employ more local people. Local communities benefit greatly through their 50% share of the park entrance fees, sales of handicrafts and tourist items, employment as porters, wildlife guides, park rangers, and workers in hotels, restaurants, and lodges. Through more job opportunities, local people would not have to go to the means of cutting down trees in these areas.
3. The government can also expand protected areas by creating more national parks and reserves. If these areas can be developed in a way that can generate income for local communities, there will be more economic benefits for the population and reserves as well. 
4. Surveillance is a very effective way to keep watch over these protected areas. Park staff can conduct patrols and guides should be trained to keep watch for any activities that may damage the ecosystem. If any suspicious activities were to occur they can be reported to park headquarters so that necessary actions can be taken.
5. Research facilities can e built so that scientists and guides could be trained to make better use of the country’s resources. If studies on endemic species can be further conducted then there would not just be the name to these species, but how can they be saved as well. Research can also be done on improving crop yields and reducing erosion.
6. The government can establish programs that educate the community and local people about the damages brought from deforestation. They can teach them other sustainable practices that can still bring in income without having to cut down the trees. Local people need to know how to effectively maximize productivity and minimize the impact on the environment. 

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"Ensuring conservation is a success in Madagascar." Wild Madagascar. Web. 24 Nov. 2012. <http://www.wildmadagascar.org/conservation/funding.html>