A delegate at Fiji's inaugural conservation science forum is hoping discussions can lead to more forest conservation.
The three-day meeting which began in Suva today is the first joint meeting for scientists, policy makers and conservation practitioners to collaborate on better conservation practices.
The forum is being hosted by Wetlands International Oceania, Wildlife Conservation Society and World Wide Fund for Nature.
Conference delegate and director for the NGO Nature Fiji-Mareqeti Viti, Dick Watling says the meeting is an important opportunity for discussions on key issues of national importance and for improved communication between parties.
"Personally I'd like to see more emphasis on forest conservation. I'd like to see more innovative ways of rewarding forest land owners who would like to, in some way, conserve their forests."
Dick Watling says the forum will give each participant a greater understanding of what each conservation entity does.
