The Riveo Group established the Île aux Cerfs Foundation to implement a comprehensive ecological restoration plan for the area. This plan is based on collaboration with numerous stakeholders and the development of new infrastructure, such as dry toilets, an eco-museum, and nature trails, while maintaining free access for Mauritians. Dominique Bellier
Since Île aux Cerfsoffers a massive open-air picnic area, a championship golf course, and a variety of water sports facilities, the site’s ecology has not been a priority thus far. But going forward, the Riveo Group intends to create a new momentum, based on sustainable regeneration, the enhancement and respect for the natural heritage of this 300-arpents area, as well as on a more rational organization and management of the activities it hosts. This approach will also rely on public participation through various advisory committees and on raising awareness through the ecopark, nature trails, and the eco-museum, which will be gradually implemented by the recently established foundation .
Coming soon: the management plan for this project, developed by Dynamia and Thierry Lebreton, provides an ecological assessment, with a particular focus on the assets of Mangenie Islet. Surrounded by a marine protected area since the year 2000, the two islands meet the definition of sensitive areas and play a key role in connecting the main lagoon and coastal ecosystems. Close to the coastline, they feature a wide variety of natural habitats, from dune systems to mangroves… Mangenie Islet boasts a surprising network of wetlands, ranging from semi-flooded mudflats to small ponds, including marshes and other brackish lakes. The mangrove forest is relatively large and species-rich, featuring, for example, an abundance of Bruguiera gymnorhizas, some of which reach a remarkable height of 5 to 6 meters. And in the wetlands, a rare native water lily has also been identified…
