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In South Sulawesi forests contain a large variety of genera and species of plants. These forests are important as sources of timber, fuelwood, food and many other minor products. The major concern over this important coastal resource is its increasing rate of exploitation. Prior to 1965 it was estimated that there were at least 110 000 hectares of mangrove forests covering the coast of South Sulawesi. However, today about 80000 hectares have already been cleared for timber, fuelwood, and for conversion to tambak (brackish water ponds). Tambak is one of the most common forms of land use in the coastal region of South Sulawesi, and has created a serious land use conflict. Conservation efforts involve coastal revegetation projects and the establishment of a 200 metre wide ‘green belt’ all along the coast. The implementation of these protective measures is discussed.