Viani Village is a typical Fijian village, with a population of 200. Most people there make an income by farming root crops, collecting copra (dried coconut kernels), and fishing. They sell all of these products at the market in nearby Savusavu. About two years ago, local fishermen began reporting declining catches, and the village chief declared a no-take marine reserve.
The village is willing to protect the marine reserve for an additional 10 years. It has also agreed to preserve 50 acres of pristine rainforest for 10 years. In exchange, Seacology is funding the construction of a much-needed community center.