Mist Ranges Conservation

Mist Ranges Conservation is an indigenous conservation program working with local communities in the landslide prone Mount Elgon region in eastern Uganda. Growing population in this area has led communities to plant crops too close to the rivers, which has exacerbated soil erosion and led to devastating floods. We strive to restore the ecological integrity of the stream and riverbanks around this beautiful mountainous region by growing and planting bamboo seedlings. Bamboo’s unique root system hold soils in place, lessening erosion by 85%, and its rhizomes and stems act as a water reservoir, storing up water during the rainy season and returning it to the ground, rivers, and streams during dry periods. We also work with local women’s groups to teach them how to grow kitchen gardens in the soil near their homes. This twin approach restores the natural power of bamboo to the ecosystem, while also empowering women to feed their families.

Our goal of $125,000 is the minimum support needed to fund our project through the end of 2025. It reflect $20,000 for 2023 (achieved!); $42,000 for 2024 (on track!); and $63,000 for 2025.