Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rises in March

SAO PAULO -- Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest rose 14 percent in March from the previous year, preliminary official data showed on Friday, highlighting the continued challenges for the new leftist government. Space research agency Inpe's data showed 356 square km (137 square miles) were cleared in the Brazil’s Amazon just last month. Washington announced at the beginning of the year it intended to contribute to Brazil's Amazon Fund, which supports conservation projects in the jungle region. Space research agency Inpe's data showed 356 square km (137 square miles) were cleared in the Brazil’s Amazon just last month. Washington announced at the beginning of the year it intended to contribute to Brazil's Amazon Fund, which supports conservation projects in the jungle region.