PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG REGENCY - Kertasari – The West Java Provincial Forestry Service together with West Java Foresters and Jaga Leuweung carried out Friday Planting (JUNA) activities in the Upper Citarum Greenbelt area in three locations, namely Cianjing Village, Sukapura Village, and Tarumajaya Village, Kertasari District.

In addition to planting, this activity also includes maintenance of previously planted trees. The abundant water availability in the area supports both planting and maintenance. Maintenance activities include watering, checking the condition of the trees, and cleaning the area around the planting site. This step aims to improve the success of tree growth and thus provide long-term benefits to the environment and the community.

During the implementation of activities at the Citarum Hulu Urug Iso Greenbelt, Sukapura Village, a representative of Jaga Leuweung said that planting during the dry season can still be done because the water needs in the area are still sufficient.

"Thank God, the JUNA planting has now been completed. Even though it's the dry season, we're still willing to plant because we have sufficient water. The greenbelt that has been built benefits both the farmers and the community. Besides helping protect the land from erosion, this area also supports the production of commodities like coffee, oranges, and avocados."

The Upper Citarum Greenbelt not only plays a role in protecting the upstream Citarum Watershed (DAS) but also provides benefits to the communities that manage the surrounding land. Better land management reduces the risk of erosion and maintains the productivity of plantations such as coffee, citrus, and avocados.

Through the Friday Tree Planting and Maintenance activities held at these three locations, the West Java Provincial Forestry Service, along with the West Java Foresters and Jaga Leuweung, continues to promote sustainable upstream area management. This collaboration is expected to maintain environmental functions while providing benefits to the surrounding community.