Have you ever wondered "Why Madagascar?" 

Despite millions of dollars in conservation aid directed to Madagascar, its forests continue to be overexploited, species continue to go extinct, and Madagascar remains a global conservation priority. New approaches to conserve Madagascar's unique plants and animals are needed and must address the economic development and food security of the Malagasy people, a vibrant mix of Indonesian, Persian and African cultures.

In the last 50 years, 40% of Madagascar's forests have been cleared. The CPALI site, located in Northeastern Madagascar, is the largest remaining rainforested area in the country. A system of parks connect this track of land and protect the species within, but there is pressure on the parks from all sides.

Over 300,000 people were economically displaced upon creation of the parks. The founding of the protected area disrupted the residents' traditional use of forest resources for food and cash and created a need for alternative livelihoods and food sources. 

CPALI, Ta'na'na Silk's parent organization, is responding by introducing small-scale agricultural production of native silkworms and silk. Farmers that become skilled in cocoon and textile production can add about $200/year to current, yearly incomes of about $140/year.