METHODS

Database Design

Following a review of the types of information available which contained descriptions of TMCF sites, a draft framework for recording data in a database was developed. A set of draft materials were then sent to a core group of contacts with experience and/or knowledge of cloud forest issues, for comment. These materials included a proposed structure for recording both summary and more detailed information, along with a detailed national map designed to facilitate the addition of cloud forest sites. Having reviewed the range of responses from the core group, the database layout was designed.

A new recording facility to store data on TMCFs was added to the existing Protected Areas database at WCMC. This includes the ability to link cloud forest sites to protected area records. Based on the database layout, blank summary site data sheets were designed for collecting information. The Geographic Information System (GIS) database was also prepared to receive site locations where available.

Information Gathering

A pilot information gathering exercise began with sets of materials being sent to more than 40 contacts in South and Central America. Each set included a country map, copies of the blank summary site sheets, and a photocopy of the synthesis working definition developed at the Puerto Rico Symposium, accompanied by a letter of explanation. In practice the results from this exercise were poor, although in a minority of cases, sets of completed site sheets were returned along with maps on which the location of cloud forest sites had been marked. At this point it was decided to complement the information received with material gathered from a comprehensive review of information available through research at WCMC.

Data were recorded on a site by site basis where available. However the amount of detail was very variable between sites, so it was decided to group sites into sub-national regions (often mountain ranges or islands, but in some cases single, isolated mountain peaks). Descriptive information from the sites in a particular region was compiled into a summary paragraph for the region, which was entered into the database in a memo field.

Compilation of a draft directory

Following an intensive period of research and compilation, a draft directory of TMCFs has been produced. It is intended to distribute it to all contributors and a number of other contacts in hard copy form. In addition the material will be made available on the WCMC Internet Web Site.

A global directory has been compiled, consisting of sections on each of the major tropical regions, Africa, Latin America and south-east Asia, which contain a chapter on each country included. Each chapter begins with a national overview, map and summary table showing the main sub-national cloud forest regions and sites identified with latitude and longitude co-ordinates where available, along with an indication of which sites have an element of formal protection (this refers to sites classified as meeting IUCN Management Category I-VI criteria). This is followed by summary paragraphs describing each of the sub-national regions in terms of location, biodiversity, conservation status, and giving details of the values of the TMCF sites in the area and the pressures currently faced. An example chapter is shown in the Annex along with map 4.