Mr. Fred Pitisopa, Deputy Commissioner,
Tel : 24215, Email : fpitisopa@mofr.gov.sb

The Division exists as an implementer of Solomon and overseas joint researches and studies which would lead to greater understanding and knowledge about the uses of the forest resources and why protection, conservation and studying of these forest resources and their ecological biodiversity is so important. Besides, the Division is also responsible in the collection and preservation of the plant specimen and information for the identification of their botanical names and their potential uses.

Policy Statement : Ensure the sustainable utilization and conservation of natural resources, protection of the environment and successful adaptation to climate change.

Vision Statement : Envisions to become one of the top National Herbariums and Botanical Gardens in the South Pacific.

Mission Statement : To develop and promote a place for recreation and biodiversity conservation, education and research to encourage sustainable utilization and appreciation of the country’s plant genetic resources.

Specialized functions

The management functions of the Division can be classified into several specialized components such as.

• Herbarium and Botanical Garden Management
• Forest Research(Forest Ecology, Ethno-Botany, Dendrology/Botanical Studies)
• Animal Sciences (e.g. Entomology, Herpetology, Avifauna, Mammal studies, etc.)
• National Forest Conservation programs
• Non-Timber Forest Products
• Investigate into carbon and environmental services rent

National Herbarium & Botanical Garden Division’s Activities

National Herbarium Section

1. Conduct Plant specimen collection, documentation and update SI flora.
2. Manage and properly curate the National Herbarium.
3. Manage and update the Solomon Islands plant database.
4. Collaborate with international agencies, institutions and researchers to conduct research on ecology and botany.
5. Liaise with other herbaria for specimen loans and exchange.
6. Collaborate with other stakeholders, institutions, and researchers to conduct research on non-timber forest products.
7. Continue to assist with the facilitation of applied research on plants in Solomon Islands.
8. Liaise with Pacific Community (SPC) and University of the South Pacific (USP) to bring back Herbarium species from Suva, Fiji back to the country.
9. Conduct research and update the status of plant species (biodiversity, population and distribution).

Botanical Garden Section

1. Conduct Living plant collection in provinces to increase biodiversity, promote plant conservation and display of our indigenous ornamental

plants in the botanical garden.

2. Design and construct therapeutic horticulture for aesthetic purposes.
3. Maintain, upgrade and manage nursery grounds, plant conservatory and orchid house.
4. Promote in situ and ex situ conservation of our vulnerable and endangered plant species.
5. Update and manage plant records of all living plant materials stored inside the botanical garden
6. Continue with development work on infrastructures (like roads, fence, buildings, treks etc.) inside the botanical garden.
7. Upkeep maintain and upgrade botanical garden.

Visitor Service Section

1. Conduct educational awareness in schools and communities to promote and excel the role of Herbarium and botanical garden.
2. Establish Library and Information Centre to accommodate research needs and disperse of plant information to the general public.
3. Establish good public relation with visitors, tourism agencies and the general public in a professional conduct.
4. Upgrade recreation space and conduct recreation educational activities that can instigate influx of visitors.
5. Support and accommodate projects to expand visitor services provided in the NHBG Division.