Basse-Mana. 08/12/93; Guyane Française; 59,000 ha; 05°40'N 053°54'W. Parc Naturel Régional (2001). A plain of sandy barrier beaches, freshwater and brackish swamps, marine clays, mudflats, unexploited mangrove forests, swampland forests and pinot palm (Euterpe oleracea) stands. The alternation between erosion and large mud deposits (mudflat formation), preceding future coastal growth, is noteworthy. The site provides important habitat for nesting turtles, wintering grounds for numerous species of waders and feeding, staging, nesting and breeding areas for waterbirds. Human activities include nature tourism, beach activities, fishing, hunting, farming, and conservation education. Most land is owned by the state but the Kalinas Amerindian people have right of usage. The site is an important turtle study and protection station and contains various archaeological or funerary sites. Consumption of marine turtle eggs has diminished but remains within the traditional rights of the Kalinas. Ramsar site no. 643. Most recent RIS information: 2007.