Tsunami Ark Prototype Takes Shape

It may seem strange to be building based on the "tsunami ark" concept at 1,500m above sea level but there are good reasons for chosing Air Hangat as our test site. Bamboo grows on the organic farm property and we have access to free labor under the direction of our site manager. Transport and accommodation costs are minimal and the building will be seen by the stream of visiting authorites who visit the farm to learn about organic methods.

We have the full support of the recently promoted Head of Agriculture for West Sumatra. Pak John started the organic farm and his hard work has been recognised by the Governor and national leaders. An organic farm program is under discussion for the Mentawai Islands as part of our disaster mitigation strategy for the area.


The site for the protoype is among jungle trees on a ridge above a bend in a deep bamboo lined gorge. The building will be used for meetings and training programs at the farm.

Bamboo trusses are stacked ready for errection. The roof will be installed before the floor to protect the coconut timber planks from exposure to the weather. Our construction costs are being recorded and many details and techniques are being tried for use in the final design for our 'Ark' at Air Manis.

FootNote:

Europe's leading surf magazine, 'The Surfers Path' has published an interview "Turning the Tide" written by IA volunteer Mike Frood. The content is very similar to the Electric Lamb story and focuses on the history of our involvement in Sumatra and our work in Aceh and Nias.