Program Activities
Canal-block Construction in Temiang
Yayasan Gambut and community members built a canal block in Temiang on 20 September 2026 as part of peatland water management under SPM–CLS.
Water management is an important part of peatland stewardship in Temiang Village, Bandar Laksamana Sub-district, Bengkalis Regency. On 20 September 2026, Yayasan Gambut and local residents carried out canal-block construction under the Sustainable Peatland Management and Community Livelihood Strengthening (SPM–CLS) programme, supported by the Global Environment Centre (GEC).
The activity involved one woman from Kelompok Tani Wanita Makmur Jaya and four men from the local community. Their involvement placed community members directly in the construction process and connected the work with local management of the facility.
Building the structure
Work included installing wooden piles, filling and compacting soil, and cement work on the upper section. Field photographs document the placement of timber across the canal and the finishing of the structure’s surface. These stages created a barrier within the previously open channel.
Canal blocking is intended to slow the outward flow of water through drainage channels. Retaining water supports efforts to prevent peatlands from drying rapidly. The construction forms part of the peatland rewetting component of SPM–CLS.
Linking water management with fire preparedness
The canal block complements fire-prevention activities in Temiang. On 24 August 2026, the programme supported installation of a Fire Danger Rating System (FDRS) board and peat water-table monitoring facility. The interventions serve complementary purposes: the canal block supports water management, while water-table observations and fire-risk information support community preparedness.
After construction, attention is needed to the condition of the structure, potential leakage, and water levels around the site. Regular observation can guide maintenance and help assess how the canal block functions during wet and dry periods.
SPM–CLS runs from May 2026 to February 2027 in Bengkalis and Siak. It connects Liberica coffee agroforestry, peatland water management, and fire prevention with stronger community livelihoods.