Conesrvation efforts

In large measure, the fate of the orangutans lies in the hands of the Indonesians and Malay peoples. Still, there is a role for the international community of governments and conservation organizations.

The United States has allocated $1.5 million for orangutan conservation efforts in Indonesia this year. But WCS agrees that will not be enough.

WCS is calling for a moratorium on logging in old-growth forests until the political situation has stabilized and improved enforcement to prevent illegal logging. The organization hopes to work with both the government and local communities and governments to stop illegal logging.

''The documented long-term decline in orangutan numbers is both depressing and a call to action,'' says Josh Ginsberg, WCS director for Asia programs. ''tough changes in natural resources management and protection of remaining habitat are critical to ensuring a future for the orangutan.''