We are excited to announce that the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund has awarded SAVE THE FROGS! Ghana a $20,000 grant to assist our efforts to save the critically endangered Giant Squeaker Frog (Arthroleptis krokusua) from extinction. With these funds, we will train and utilize local volunteers to remove the non-native invasive plant Chromolaena odorata from five hectares of the frogs’ critical habitat area. We will establish community tree nurseries to raise seedlings of four native tree species (Terminalia superba, T. ivoriensis, Ceiba pentandra and Triplochiton scleroxylon) and we will plant the seedlings in previously infested areas to prevent regrowth of C. odorata and to provide optimal habitat for the frogs. With the involvement of locals, students and volunteers, we will plant approximately 2,500 native trees.
These project initiatives (invasive weed removal and reforestation) will add to our past efforts of improving the Squeaker Frog’s habitat conditions. In addition, we will promote a local amphibian education program to increase awareness in the general public, utilizing many of the methods that have enabled SAVE THE FROGS! Ghana to spread its message locally and globally in such a short time. On top of benefiting the Giant Squeaker Frog, this project provides a long-term benefit to Ghana’s environment by training local people and university students in habitat restoration and frog conservation techniques. Thank you to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund and to all our SAVE THE FROGS! donors who have assisted in our efforts to protect amphibian populations and to create a better planet for humans and wildlife.