Community development efforts continue to be carried out by the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (BOS Foundation) through various sustainable initiatives. One of the flagship programs run by the community development team is the cultivation of honey bees and oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus). This program not only provides economic opportunities for local communities but also contributes to environmental conservation in Samboja Lestari.
Honey bee cultivation training began in 2023. This training marked the start of honey bee farming development in Samboja Lestari, which now has around 11 hive boxes. This number has the potential to continue growing as beekeepers gain more experience and knowledge. This cultivation effort has shown positive results. The honey produced is of high quality and sells out every harvest season at Rp. 125,000 per bottle. This success indicates the high market demand for natural honey from Samboja Lestari.
However, success does not come without challenges. Disturbances from wildlife such as pig-tailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) and ant pests pose obstacles in the process. To address this, the BOS Foundation has implemented preventive measures, including installing wire barriers around the hive boxes and using grease to prevent ant infestations. Additionally, the BOS Foundation collaborates with local honey farmers around Samboja Lestari to meet the increasing market demand.
In addition to honey bee farming, the BOS Foundation is also developing oyster mushroom cultivation. This initiative is located within the Samboja Lestari area. Similar to honey bee farming, this effort also faces challenges, one of which is rodent pests in the early stages of baglog preparation.
Although still on a small scale, oyster mushroom cultivation has shown promising progress. The harvested oyster mushrooms are sold at Rp. 33,000 per kilogram, following the prevailing market price. The primary challenge in oyster mushroom farming is limited production capacity, which has not yet met large-scale demand. However, with better management and commitment, there is great potential for scaling up production in the future.
The entire series of activities, from training to the establishment of honey bee and oyster mushroom farming demonstration plots, has been made possible with the support of partners and the local community. This program is a tangible proof of how strong collaboration can help create environmentally friendly and sustainable economic opportunities for the communities around Samboja Lestari.
Through honey bee and oyster mushroom cultivation, the local community not only gains economic benefits but also becomes more aware of the importance of maintaining ecosystem balance. This development program is a concrete step toward economic self-sufficiency that aligns with the BOS Foundation’s conservation efforts. As this initiative continues to grow, it is hoped that more people in the Samboja Lestari area will experience its benefits and play an active role in preserving nature.
Text by: Samboja Lestari Communications Team, East Kalimantan
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