Project Update

Newsletter ofPrakritiPrakriti the National Trust for Nature Conservation Janurary to June, 2014 International Conference on Invasive NTNC Chairman Alien Species Management Nominated

Recognizing the detrimental impacts of prevent new incursions of invasive alien Right Honorable Prime Minister, invasive alien species (IAS) on ecology, species and to manage their negative Mr. Sushil Koirala in the capacity of environment and socio-economic status impacts. IAS are running riot with dire Patron of the National Trust for Nature of every country on the globe, participants consequences not only for agriculture, Conservation (NTNC), as per the of the International Conference on IAS livestock productivity, forests, wetlands, provision of article 5 (Ka) of NTNC Act Management are in agreement to join and water scarcity but also for fisheries, 1982, nominated Honorable Minister hands for the control and management wildlife conservation and human health. for Forests and Soil Conservation, Mr. of non-native invasive species around the Mahesh Acharya, as the Chairman of world. The declaration also emphasized for the Governing Board of the Trust on the establishment of partnership Friday, February 28, 2014. They raised their voices to encourage among Government, conservation and support for regional and global level development partners, non-Government coordination of activities against the IAS and community-based organizations, while helping to build the capacity of private sector, academicians and the Inside all stakeholders in its management. The general public, at local, national and conference was organized by the National international levels for developing NEWSLINE Trust for Nature Conservation at its and implementing IAS management Biodiversity Conservation Center (BCC), strategies. PROJECT UPDATE Sauraha, Chitwan, and was participated 4 ACAP by the researchers and experts from The conference was held on March 25-27, 4 MCAP Australia, India, , Pakistan, South 2014 with the financial support of Asian 4 GCAP Africa, United Kingdom and United States Development Bank (ADB) and USAID of America. The conference declaration funded Hariyo Ban Program. 27 research 4 BCC emphasized on the urgent need of papers were presented and discussed in 4 BCP comprehensive national strategies to the conference. 4 SCP 4 Central Zoo Janurary to June, 2014 1 Newsline

China Donates Office Equipment to NTNC

On the special ceremony organized at NTNC Central Office, the Government of People’s Republic of China (PRC) handed over the office equipment to NTNC’s Conservation and Research Centre on Wednesday, January 8, 2014.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the PRC to Nepal, His Excellency Mr. Wu Chuntai handed over the equipment to Mr. Govinda Gajurel, Member Secretary of the Trust in the presence of Honorable Minister for Forests and Soil Conservation and the Chairperson of the Trust Mr. Tek Bahadur Thapa Gharti,. On the occasion, “Certificate of Delivery and Acceptance” of the goods was signed by His Excellency Mr. Wu Chuntai on behalf of the Chinese Government and Mr. Gajurel on behalf of recipient of the Government of Nepal. The office equipment support was worth RMB Yuan 800,000.

Conservation Workshop for Miss Nepal 2014 Contestants

NTNC hosted two days Conservation Workshop for Fanta Miss Nepal -2014 Finalists at NTNC’s BCC, Sauraha, Chitwan on 12–13 April 2014. The main objective of the workshop was to impart knowledge on biodiversity conservation, issues/challenges and efforts made by Government of Nepal, NTNC and other conservation partners in biodiversity conservation sector.

During the presentations, Mr. Govinda Gajurel, Member Secretary of NTNC, provided some tips on personality development. Mr. Ganga Jang Thapa, Executive Director of the Trust imparted information on NTNC’s objectives National Park (CNP) highlighted the ungulates. Furthermore, Mr. Shyam and activities being carried out in efforts undertaken to control poaching Kumar Thapa, Conservation Officer the conservation sector. Likewise, Dr. and illegal activities. Dr. Naresh Subedi, introduced the participants to climate Senior Conservation Officer spoke on Chiranjibi Prasad Pokharel, Chief of change, emphasizing on what is climate BCC shared his experience on rhino how NTNC, in coordination with DNPWC, change and how it is happening and translocation and tiger census across is working in the field to acquire scientific Nepal. Mr. Ramesh Kumar Thapa, data for the conservation of flagship effects of climate change on human Assistant Conservation Officer of Chitwan species like tiger, rhino, elephants and population, ecosystem and biodiversity.

2 Mid July 2011 - Mid july 2012 Newsline

World Environment Day Marked

NTNC-Central Zoo along with other partner organizations; Lalitpur Sub- Metropolitan City, IUCN, WWF Nepal and Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN) marked the World Environment Day on 5th June 2014 with the theme “Raise Your Voice, Not the Sea Level.”

A rally with a decorated elephant in the lead and thousands of participants along with traditional Dhime Baja went around Lalitpur city to spread the conservation awareness message in accordance with the theme. The Government of Nepal had translated the theme as “Himal Bachaun, Batabaran Jogaun” in order to make it more relevant as Nepal is a landlocked administered the conservation oath to all country. the participants in the ceremony. MOU signING The school children and teachers The Chief Guest Honorable Member NTNC and the Department of Forest of Friends of Zoo (FOZ), a popular of the National Planning Commission (DoF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday, conservation education initiative of Prof. Dr. Govinda Nepal highlighted February 5, 2014 to carry out the Central Zoo and a network of thousands the impacts of climate change and project on “Problematic Wild animal of school students and hundreds of emphasized the need of national plans to Rescue and Rehabilitation in and schools from Kathmandu valley took ensure adaptation activities are geared to part in the rally. Similarly representatives around Kathmandu Valley.” Mr. save the environment. Member Secretary Govinda Gajurel, Member Secretary of government and non-government of NTNC, Mr. Govinda Gajurel welcomed of NTNC and Mr. Bishwa Nath Oli, organizations enthusiastically the participants and Project Manager Director General of DoF signed the participated in the ceremony. Another of NTNC-Central Zoo, Ms Sarita Jnawali MoU on behalf of their respective attraction of the ceremony was the delivered the vote of thanks. agencies. Mr. Megh Bahadur Pandey, participation by Miss Nepal World Director General of DNPWC was also 2014 - Ms. Subin Limbu, who is also the On the occasion, the Chief Guest and the present at the ceremony. Biodiversity Conservation Ambassador of special guests distributed prizes to the NTNC, Miss Nepal Earth 2014 - Ms. Prinsha winners of the different annual activities Both parties agreed to implement Shrestha and Miss Nepal International of the FOZ program and the on the spot the project under the Strengthening 2014 Ms. Sonie Rajbhandari attended banner competition among the FOZ Regional Cooperation in Wildlife as the special guests. The three winners schools. The special guests also released Protection in Asia Project in of the Miss Nepal Beauty Pageant -2014 special posters published by BCN. accordance with the procedures agreed with the World Bank under IDA. The World Bank provided nd 2 batch of Nepal SemesteR PROGRAM grant to the Government of Nepal, through the MoFSC for the project NTNC in collaboration with University of rich biodiversity to wider audience and where DNPWC and the DoF are the Minnesota (UMN), USA had launched the to share the practical experiences on implementing agencies and the Trust 2nd batch of Nepal Semester Program at conservation of biodiversity, wildlife and is working as Project Coordination Unit (PCU). The main objective of the BCC, Sauraha, Chitwan in 2013 as per the culture. 13 students of the University, MOU signed between NTNC and UMN. project is to reduce human-wildlife residing at BCC engaged in theoretical interface with particular emphasis This year’s 16 credits Semester Program, as well practical classes. The students on rescue and rehabilitation from January to May 2014 is on were taught by UMN professors, NTNC of problematic wild animals in “Ecological Services and Biodiversity in and BCC’s officers and resource persons Kathmandu Valley and adjoining districts by controlling and rescuing Nepal’s Community Forests”. The main from DNPWC. NTNC’s wildlife technicians problem wild animals. aim of the program is to present Nepal’s provided assistance in technical sessions.

Mid July 2011 - Mid july 2012 3 Project Update

ANNAPURNA CONSERVATION AREA PROJECT (ACAP)

NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION

The project, private and community nurseries in the ACA are operating to meet the demand of seedlings for plantation. The project nurseries of Manang, Bhujung and Sikles has produced a total of 12606 seedlings and distributed for plantation. In Sikles a total of 115 bamboo seedlings were distributed while 19,248 seedlings produced from community nurseries of Ghandruk and 1850 seedlings were distributed to Shikha VDC. A total of 760 m linear stone wall fence was constructed at Narchyang VDC and 4.5 ha area planted in Bhurjung khola and Chaura of Lwang sector. UCO Lo-Manthang has supported wall fencing to Phuwa, Kimling, Chhode Gumba and Tsarang. A total of 2450 m of Awareness camps on illegal wildlife trade, Three units of district level Yarsagumba fencing wall repairmen was also supported wildlife conservation and management management meetings were conducted to Ghasa, Tiri Gumba, Falyak Youth club, was organized in 8 VDCs of Jomsom sector, in Chame on sustainable harvesting Chhyongyur, Chairathang, Dhumba on forest fire control & management and management of Yarsagumba and women group and Khinga respectively. in Ghanpokhara & Uttarkanya VDC of other NTFPs in region. Leadership In Jomsom sector, a total of 2200 m wall Bhujung sector and Gandruk sector. development and management training fence was constructed. Irrigation for Poem competition program on climate for CAMC members was organized on community plantation at Chhyongur was change was conducted and was also February at Birethanti. Appreciative completed with polythene pipeline fitting live telecasted by Community Radio inquiry, leadership qualities, style which has benefitted 31 HH. Furniture Marsyangdi 95.0 Mhz for wider outreach. and characteristics, organization and stationeries were supported to An awareness training for the yak herders management, office management, CAMCs. All CAMC were supported with were held in Kobang VDC in which 18 time management, good governess etc. participated. Relief fund was provided to honorarium of secretaries and forest were the main focus of discussion of each sufferer of livestock depredation in guards along with the administrative the training which benefitted 26 CAMC Sikles, Taprang, Rohingaun, Ghyamrang, supports. members. Day long leadership training Togi Ghandruk and Dangsing VDCs. for all CAMC members was organized at The project provided gabion boxes for 17 cases of livestock depredation by VDCs on 25th January. Participants river embankment in the area. During the common leopard were reported in were briefed about the provisions of period, 23 gabion boxes were provided to Lwang sector and total of 287 cases were conservation laws. Dangsing, 13 Lumle and 22 to Ghandruk reported in Lo-Manthang sector caused VDCs. In Lwang sector, 48 gabion boxes by snow leopard. Sagar Tamang of Lete ACAP has been implementing its all were provided to 6 CAMCs for the river VDC, seriously injured by the attack programs in close coordination with embankment and gully protection. of Himalayan black bear was provided concerned CAMCs. All planning, relief support while 11 other locals were Similarly, 140 & 127 gabion boxes were implementing and monitoring are done partially compensated for the losses. supported in Jomsom and Sikles sector through CAMCs. In this regards, UCO respectively. 170 gabion boxes were Snow Leopard Conservancy (SLC) and Ghnadruk organized a planning workshop th provided to different sites and irrigation NTNC-ACAP jointly conducted programs on 11 January at Birethanti with the support was provided to community land on snow leopard conservation. Snow participation of CAMCs of Ghandruk, of Aatagharsa to irrigate plantation sites. leopard conservation workshop and Lumle, Dangsing Shikha, Ghara and Financial support was provided for the capacity building training to CAMC Narchyang representing 4 members from conservation and repairmen of Titi Lake members were organized in Chame. each. CAMC Ghandruk also organized in Kunjo VDC. 16 units of forest patrolling Leadership training was also organized co-ordination and networking meeting were conducted in Manang, Ghandruk, for 12 CAMC members of Manang and at Birethanti. In Bhujung and Sikles Lumle and Lo-Manthang. 131 members of Jomsom sector. sector, 2 units of silvi-culture training

4 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

of tomato seed and distributed to the 45 farmers to support the off seasonal vegetable farming. CAMC also purchased 400 seedlings of ground apple and distributed to 25 farmers. Agriculture crops and vegetable collection center was also constructed in Narchyang.

Day long capacity building on climate change workshop was conducted for the LAPA implementation at Lumle and Shikha VDCs. Concept of climate change, greenhouse gases and its effect, role of forest and impact of climate change, LAPA implementation, monitoring and reporting were the main topics of the training. A village level Climate Change Coordination Committee (VC4) was also were conducted where 42 & 101 A workshop cum training on account in each VDCs. participants from CAMC, FMSc and other and administration was organized in key persons were involved respectively. Bhujung sector. Day long community ALTERNATIVE ENERGY PROGRAM CAMC members were taken in 8 day long based anti-poaching training was In Manang sector, 16 units of back- observation tour to the western Terai. organized at Narchyang, Tolka, Paudwar boiler and solar water heaters were They visited Blackbuck Conservation and Swanta. According to the approved installed and repaired whereas 7 units Area, Khairpur, Bardia National Park, budget of Hariyo Ban Program, the grant were installed in Ghandruk VDC. Cash Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve in which was transferred to CAMC Ghandruk and support was provided to Sikles for 10 28 members participated. With the CAMC Narchyang to construct stone wall, electric poles which benefitted 350 HH. objectives of enhancing the knowledge plantation in barren land and protect the Cash support was provided for earthling on scientific forest management, 4 days forest. The CAMC, Narchyang constructed in Sondha Micro hydro of Parche-1 which scientific forest management tour was 600 meters length stone wall and planted has benefitted 45 HH. organized for NRCP and CEEP staffs visited 3220 different verities of seedlings in Lumbini zone, from May. Gadpar. The CAMC also constructed 400 Financial support was provided to CAMC meters length stone wall at Khairekhola. Lo-Manthang for the establishment of Under the Hariyo Ban Program, climate Similarly, CAMC Ghara constructed 200 a LPG gas depot. 22 bio-gas plants have change and disaster risk management meters length stone wall and Khibang been constructed in Ghanpokhara and awareness was conducted at Ghara, irrigation. Simpani. Out of 47 plants installed in this Narchyang VDC of Myagdi for CAMC fiscal year, 41 installed in and members, Youth Club and stakeholders. Good governance trainings were VDC. Each household is granted Concept of climate change, Greenhouse conducted at Shikha, Narchyang, Rs. 5,000.00 as subsidy in addition to Dangsing and Lumle VDCs. An action plan gases and greenhouse effect, role of government support. 40 number of iron forest and impact of climate change etc. was developed by the 119 participating stoves were distributed in Sikha, Ghara, were the topics of delivery in the sessions. members at the end of the trainings Narchyang and Ghandruk VDCs. Similar program was also conducted in and committed to follow it. Similarly, Shikha VDC and for students of Paudwar participatory governance assessment CONSERVATION EDUCATION & Secondary School, Himalaya High School, training was organized at Shikha, EXTENSION PROGRAM Lumle. In total 100 students participated Narchyang, Dangsing and Lumle, VDCs. in this program. Day long forest fire hazard management Conservation education classes were training was organized at Gharap on conducted in all the schools under 7 UCOs. Good governance training was provided 28th May. Good governance trainings in Conservation Education (CE) books were to 101 community members in Sikles. An 5 VDC (Ghemi, Surkhang, Tsarang & Lo- distributed free of cost to all students anti-poaching training was also conducted Manthang) were conducted. The UCO has and remuneration for CE teachers were in Parche and Thumakodanda with a total also conducted Participatory Government also provided in a regular basis. Science of 50 APU and CAMC members. Similar assessment in 7 VDCs. educational materials were supported to workshops were organized in Ghalegaun the 7 schools in Sikles sector as well as 22 with 28 members and in Jomsom with the CAMC Narchyang purchased 45 pieces Dalit students were awarded scholarship participation of 262 members of 9 VDCs. plastic tunnels (24’*33”) and 12 packets to pursue their study. 5 higher level

Janurary to June, 2014 5 Project Update

furniture support was provided to Lumle community building and Gadpar of Narchyang VDC. Sewage construction was supported in Ghandruk-4 Kachho, Uri, jhinu trail Gharap & Gadpar. In Ghar VDC, drinking water scheme was supported. Drinking water tank & taps were repaired in Dangsing, Lumle and Sikha VDCs. In Lwang sector, 8 community buildings were supported partially. School building in Machhapuchhre- 9, Karuwa was repaired by replacing new door and window students and 33 school level students awareness for local people the project shutter. The other programs includes-trail were provided stipend for continuation published posters of 17 different Butterfly repair, suspended bridge in , of their study in Jomsom sector. species found in ACA. CE teachers’ Tadikhola wooden bridge was repaired by workshop was conducted in Bhujung & replacing the new wooden planks, railing th The 19 Wildlife week was marked with Sikles. UCO, Lwang organized knowledge and drinking water schemes. various programs all over the ACA on the sharing tour for 14 CE teachers in Sauraha A community toilet was constructed in theme of “Ban ra Banyajantu, Prakritika Chitwan with and aim learning from Jomsom Jeep park station. A total of Adhar: Bhabi Santatilai Hamro Upahar”. seeing. UCO Lwang organized knowledge th 97 private toilets were constructed & The 104 International Women’s day sharing workshop for 28 GFC members upgraded in 5 VDC’s of Jomsom sector. was marked in all the UCOs by organizing also organized in Lwang to share the idea In Lo-Mantang financial support was different programs with the theme of and experience among each other. this year “Equality for women is progress provided to different programs such for all”. 41st World Environment Day was LIVELIHOOD IMPROVEMENT as: community shower & building marked in all the UCOs with various construction, trail construction, bridge programs with the active participation CAMC building at Dharapani, Thonche construction, wooden bridge repair & of CAMCs, students, Green Force Clubs, and Braka are under construction while maintenance, irrigation canal repair, Local Youth Club, local people and other retaining wall for the day care centre community toilet construction, and also Government and Non Government and construction of CAMC building of supported for ODF program. agencies. Manang and Tanki Manang has been completed. A trail repairman support was AGRICULTURE & LIVESTOCK Supports were provided to 7 youth provided to Khangsar and Phoo. Support DEVELOPMENT clubs of Sikles sector, furniture support was provided for drainage construction was extended to Kimling youth club of from chhorten to bridge on the way to The project nurseries of Manang and Chhonup and Chuksang club and financial Gangapurna Lake. 30 private toilets were Chame are operating well and have been support was provided to Dhakmar youth supported in Chame VDC to reduce open providing seedlings to local farmers. As Club for organizing Lo-chho-den sports defecation and improve the sanitation of Bhujung sector is very potential for cash competition as well as to Thak sports the village. In Bhujung sector furniture crop production such as tea, cardamom, & cultural development organization supports were provided to Ghanpokhara, broom grass and coffee, seedlings to carry out sports and cultural shows Simpani & Bhujung. The Project has were distributed for plantation in 462 in Ghasa. Green Force Clubs were in supported to construct 151 private toilets ropani land. In Ghandruk sector, the different schools of Manang. Green in Pasgaon VDC, 171 in Bhujung and 310 conservation farmers were supported Force Clubs and CE teachers training was in Ghanpokhara VDC. Similarly, a trail different seedlings. The project has organized in Chame with the participation was repaired from to Simpani. supported 30 shed improvement for of 17 teacher and students. 15 schools in In Bhoje, the project has supported the cattle to ease the collection of urine Bhujung sector reformed GFC and 11 GFC to construct the kitchen house of the benefitting 68 Conservation Farmers. were formed in Jomsom and stationery women group. In Lumle seedlings were distributed to materials were provided to them. “Street farmers of Haijung. A tea machinery plant Drama” on snow leopard conservation Similarly in Sikles sector, an RCC bridge was installed in Bhujung village. was performed in Ranipauwa, Muktinath was constructed in Sildijure VDC -2, during the Yartung festival. Members of school buildings were constructed in The project has supported to purchase GFC and snow leopard scouts performed VDC-9. In -3 of 52 bee hives, 3 bee capturing bags the drama under the support of SLC. Harse and Thumakodanda-2 of Syage, and 7 pcs of caps and 15 pcs of gates. 2 7 water taps were supported which units of bee keeping training were also As a conservation material and creating benefitted 144 HH. In Ghandruk sector, conducted in Sikles. 5718 animals were

6 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update treated in Sikles sector where the Project has been supporting medicine and remuneration of animal health workers. To enhance income of the local farmers and to mitigate the scarcity of meat in the market, cash supports were provided to 5 farmers at Bhoje VDC for goat farming. A goat farming training was also given to 20 farmers in Pasgaon prior to the support. Mushroom training, bee keeping training, off season vegetable trainings are the regular program of the Trust in the area.

GENDER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM regular information to the international Thulokharka,Thunju to Myardikhola. A The project has supported women trekkers and local people. 4 sign posting total of 610 m trail was constructed in group of Lo-Manthang for upgrading in landslide area and a profile board of Syangje waterfall. Places like Dhdungka local handicraft shop. Plastic handicraft Tilicho Lake was placed aiming to reduce of Surkhang VDC,Ghyakar of Chhuksang training for 12 women was conducted the human casualty from falling stone. In VDC and Ghara of Surkhang VDC for in Chame aiming to reuse plastics. The Manang sector of Khangsar and Bhimtang alternate trekking route, and a porter Mother’s group workshop was organized 21 incinerators are under construction shelter in Pathani on the way to Tangya to in Dharapani on the 3rd week of June to and an incinerator was constructed in Chhuksang was constructed. In Jomsom share knowledge on nature conservation Muktinath. To improve the alternative sector, 1 km trekking trail was constructed and office management. In Bhujung trekking routes, 175m of rock cutting in in Thini village & Lubra village, which sector, weaving & sewing training for Khotro area and 150m in Chamche were benefitted the trekkers & local people as the women group was conducted in completed. well. A tourist trail was constructed from which 8 women participated. After the Jhipra to Pahirothapla which is 750 m In Bhujung, an information board training, they have been able to prepare with wooden bridge construction. handicrafts such as bags, mobile covers, and a location boards were placed in toothbrush bags etc. Stool (Muda) from Syange and Ghalegaon. While in Sikles, In the culturally rich Gurung village bamboo training for was conducted for 8 signboards have been placed at in Bhujung, the project supported 15 the youths of Thakan, Khudi in which Mijuredanda, Yangjakot, Chipli and Sikles. home-stay owners with mattresses, 25 participated. In Ghandruk sector, 5 incinerators were constructed in Bhoje quilts, pillows and bed-sheets. In-order noodle making training and Dhoop and 2 in in Machapuchhre VDC. Support to provide basic skill for cooking food making training were conducted with was provided to construct a ticketing training was organized which benefitted the participants from Sikha, Ghar and building at Dr Harka, Dr Chandra and 19 hotel entreprenuers. Similarly, 16 Narchyang where 15 and 20 women Mingma hologram eco-park of Dhampus. people were given cooking training in benefitted respectively. In order to promote local destinations and Dhampus which was facilitated by CTEVT/ In Lo-Manthang, good governance to motivate local youths in conservation, PTTC, . Trekking guide training training to the women group of Tsarang, the project has supported village was also given to 7 local youths of Lwang Lo-Manthang, Chhoser and Chhonup tourism festivals and other programs. sector through the support of NTB and was imparted which benefitted 55 Cash support was provided to Green Hill TAAN. women. In Jomsom sector, 8 Dalit Youth Club Lwang to celebrate Chaite E-networking Research and Development women from Jomsom were given sewing Dashain mela 2070 in collaboration with have developed and installed “Trekkers & cutting training. The women group anti-poaching unit. The cultural dance, core- committee of Ghandruk sector has Tracking System” as a pilot project and different types of sports meet were established drinking water stations in in base camp region and attraction of the Mela. Wildlife posters Ghandruk since the mineral water are an Ghandruk area. The main aim of tracking were also exhibited in the Mela. UCO eye-sore. With their initiatives the centre system is to track the movement of the Lo-Manthang provided grant to DDC for is managed by the group themselves trekkers and assit in tracing when being selling ozonated safe drinking water in formulation of Tourism Management Plan of Mustang. missed around the trekking trail. The NRs 75 per liter. pen drive sized E-tag is provided to the SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT New trail exploration & construction trekkers and through the device tourist was also completed in Thokyo to can be monitored from Pokhara. Till Check-posts and visitor information Kyubaraha Kharka via Kheodar, Khudiche date 158 tags were distributed to the centers are established to provide to Sarangikharka, Fuju Deurali to interested tourists.

Janurary to June, 2014 7 Project Update

MANASALU CONSERVATION AREA PROJECT (MCAP)

NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION PROGRAM

According to the altitudinal range Chiraito (Swertiachiraita) farming is the most feasible and possible profit making species in the area. It can be means for alternative source of livelihood especially for the farmers suffering from the crops depredation by wild animals. Thus hoping towards the successful cultivation of Chiraito two local farmers of Sirdibas were selected and supported with the farming equipments along with the technical support to establish the nursery. The MCA is mainly dominated by Gurungs and Lamas, the follower of Buddhism and each household keeps prayer flag at the roof of their houses. They use Pine members, FMsC members, Mother group accountability and predictability aspects saplings as pole to fix the prayer flag. To members and community’s key persons. need to be improved. reduce the pressure on forest, as they Good governance covers the participatory Forest fire is one of the major problems used to cut Pine saplings twice a year, decision making and transparent as well as of conservation and damages the NTNC-MCAP has provided iron poles for effective implementation abiding with the productivity of forest resources. flag prayers to each household. During rules and regulations. CAMC, a decision Considering the needs for its control the year, 301 households were supported making body for resources management measure, 2 units of forest fire in Chhekampar, Lho and Bihi VDCs. and utilization. The project conducted one day participatory governance management training were conducted Conservation Area Management assessment session of seven CAMCs to at Pati and Aanga of Sirdibas VDC. With Committees (CAMCs) are the main assess their decision making process, an objective to sensitize CAMC members implementing bodies of conservation participation of local people in decision about REDD+ and motivate them to and development programs in the area. making, benefit sharing, satisfaction level conserve forest for its future benefits, In order to enhance their capacity and of local communities etc. Considering REDD+ sensitization workshop for 21 mainstream them in the process of its importance and to assess their CAMC members of the 7 VDCS was development, 7 units of governance present status. The assessment revealed, organized on February. training were organized to 157 individuals CAMCs had adopted the participatory Local rural community particularly comprising CAMC members, APU and transparency approached while the disadvantages groups are at high risk in terms of climate change induced impacts. They need to be sensitized on the local adaptation and mitigation measures of probable climate change impacts. Trainings as well as workshops were conducted to sensitize and aware on climate change issues. Climate change awareness workshops were also organized for the school teachers, local institutions, media and other stakeholders all over the MCA. Teachers can play vital role to disseminate information and educate not only to students but also to local people. Thus, 2 days Training cum workshop on climate change issues was

8 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update accomplished with the participation patrol APU team found and destroyed the The Project supported and organized of 35 teachers of MCA. Similarly, a day traps that were laid to trap wild animals. to mark the declaration of Sirdibas as awareness program was organized to Open Defecation Free zone, International representatives of local institution in Pati, CONSERVATION EDUCATION AND Women’s Day, Wildlife Week and the Jagat and Nyak of Sirdibas VDC, Sipchet EXTENSION PROGRAM World Environment Day by organizing the of Chumchet VDC and Kwak of Prok VDC. Participation of the local people is the key different programs. Similar programs were conducted at indicator to success of the conservation Sirdibas and Ghattekhola settlements, There is only a secondary school in the programs and can be ensured by which is considered as disaster prone MCA. Most of the students discontinue motivating them through the awareness area. Media personnel are regarded as school after primary level education. Thus programs. Their level of understanding on a means of disseminating information, the Project has supported 36 students conservation, active role in grass root and news, phenomena and to aware the (19 girls and 17 boys) needy and deprived supportive activities in conservation play society a workshop was organized on students to ensure their completion of vital role to implement the sustainable climate change issues under Hariyo Ban education. conservation. Two days Awareness Program. campaigns were conducted at Krak and GENDER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Security personnel and custom officials Sirdibas of Bihi and Sirdibas VDCs during are the prime authority for the legal May and June. Altogether 52 people Orientation on GESI mainstreaming enforcement. In order to identify the in Krak and 47 in Sirdibas participated strategy was organized to local mother wildlife, their body parts, protected and benefited from the event. Classes groups and other subcommittees also animals, birds, reptiles and NTFPs and regarding importance of wildlife and involved in saving and credit activities. to control the illegal trade and poaching, forest conservation, wildlife of MCA, Altogether 25 representatives of 8 mother training was organized for security protected animals, protected birds of groups of Sirdibas VDC participated in personnel and project staff on June. Nepal, legal provision for the control the program. They were orientated on Security personnel and staffs engaged in of poaching and illegal trade, role of concept and need of gender equality the check posts in the field have crucial community for the conservation of wild and social inclusion, strategies and role in curbing wildlife trade. Similarly, animal were presented during two days role of women groups in heading the one day training was organized at campaign sessions. communities towards equality and social Sirdibas on May for the school teachers inclusion and conservation of biodiversity In order to disseminate the conservation on curbing wildlife trade. Altogether as well as adaptation measures to climate messages to mass people simultaneously 36 teachers, representing 25 schools change. and to highlight the conservation participated the training. Realizing the initiatives of MCA, MCAP has prepared need of coordination among the different ALTERNATIVE ENERGY PROMOTION four different themed media clip and stakeholders in curbing the illegal wildlife PROGRAM disseminating it through two FM station trade, 2 units of coordination meetings (Kalika FM of Chitwan and Choice FM of The main source of fuel for cooking in the were conducted on May at Gorkha Bazar. Gorkha). During the period four national region is firewood which is collected from Realizing the need of strengthening local and international days were marked. nearby forests and private lands. Thus, communities against illegal poaching and trade, 3 units of anti-poaching training were conducted to the members of CBAPUs covering all 7 CAMCs. CBAPU trainings were organized at Philim, Chhekam and Gap. Participants were trained and oriented on wildlife crime, illegal wildlife hunting, control mechanism and legal provision on wildlife crime as well as they were trained to identify protected animals, birds and NTFPs of Nepal through pictures and photos. The Project has been providing supports to CBAPUs to minimize wildlife poaching, illegal NTFPs collection and illegal trade. During the period supports were provided for 4 units of forest patrolling. During the

Janurary to June, 2014 9 Project Update

to minimize its use and also to reduce settlement in April. Training was focused group Nyak village of Siridas VDC has the pressure on forest, MCAP has been basically on tourism concept, legal taken initiation to improve the trail; supporting metallic improved cooking procedure, and basic infra-structure hence, 2450 meter long Rupinala trek stove (MICS) to local individuals. During requirement for home stay and also was improved. There are many potential the period 163 MICS have been purchased shared the experience of successful tourist destinations in MCA which are yet and being transported to the sites. To operating places. After the training, 5 not explored and promoted. Thus, MCAP minimize the firewood consumption by households initiated arrangement of the has surveyed to assess this destination tea shops and hotels in the trekking trail infrastructures for home stay. Beside the along Ripchet – Gumba Lungtang - Ganesh of MCA and to provide better service to main trekking trails, Larke La trek and Himal Base Camp-Chhekam/Rachen visitors, the Project has supported for Tsum trek are the major alternate trails Gumba, which can be the potential transportation of solar water heater to in the region from which trekkers can alternative trekking route to Tsum valley. five private hotels of Sirdibas. view the beautiful Himalayan range and The Project, for the promotion of tourism scenery, and experience pristine natural AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT and to support the visitors by providing destination. The Project initiated the PROGRAM local guide, 7 local youths of MCA were improvement of the trails to connect sent to participate in nature guide The major settlements of Chhekampar, two trekking routes Larke La trek and training in BCC, Sauraha, Chitwan in June. Sirdibas, Bihi, Prok and Lho VDCs falls Tsum trek that will avoid visitors to use The Project also posted the sign posts in in Himalaya range around an elevation the same trail while going to Tsum valley 24 places within MCA and on main trail of 1,500 – 2,700 m above the sea level and then come back till the Larke La from Soti to Jagat. which is favorable altitude for apple trek, nearby Eaklebhatti of Sirdibas VDC. farming. Thus, looking towards the This year, local community of Chumchet Hospitality and good governance in potentiality of apple farming 1940 apple also accomplished 2100 m long trail hotels, teashops and camping sites helps seedlings were purchased from Jumla improvement work along high pass and to provide better tourism services which and distributed to the local farmers. Local rocky mountain in Chumchet VDC. ultimately supports in the flourishing households of Chhekampar, Sirdibas, tourism in the region. Three units of Bihi, Prok and Lho VDCs have farming Rubinala trail improvement and sign hospitality and good governance training apple trees in their garden but are not posting has been completed around were organized in Chhekampar, Prok and getting proper production due to the Rubinala pass with an aim to guide the Sirdibas on April. Altogether, 71 hotel, lack of technical farming knowledge. The trekkers to the right trail while crossing teashop and camping site’s owners and Project organized apple cutting training at the pass. Ten iron poles were placed in TMsC members including 36 females took Prok VDC in technical support of District the Rubinala pass. Likewise, a mother part in the event. Agriculture Office, Gorkha.

TOURSIM DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

In order to promote the tourism and aiming to highlight the tourism potentiality of MCA, a trip was organized to local journalists of Gorkha on May. They did trek along the main trail from Soti of Gorkha to Larke pass following the Kaal Tal and Nubri valley. Altogether 9 media persons representing different print, radio and televisions participated in the 10 days long trek.

The home stay is the best alternative of hotel accommodation in family environment. Through home stay the guest not only receives opportunities to experience local culture and tradition also contributes to improve socioeconomic status of the local community. Day long home stay orientation training was conducted at Philim, a Gurung dominant

10 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

GAURISHANKAR CONSERVATION AREA PROJECT (GCAP)

Natural Resources Conservation

GCAP has been continuously working towards institutionalizing different community based organizations to ensure effectiveness in conservation and development initiatives. CAMCs, Women Development Groups, LRPs, conservation guards and green force clubs are being formed all over GCA and are being mobilized. These CBOs along with the Nepal Police team were mobilized for control of illegal wildlife trade in Lamabagar and Singati area of Dolakha, Chichure area of Ramechhap and Marming, Tatopani and Ghorthali area of Sindhupalchok. GCAP staffs, CAMCs member, Conservation guard, Youth groups are mainly involved in the illegal traders to smuggle wildlife parts Conservation Education and forest patrolling and during the period, into and out from Nepal. Lamabagar and Extension Program CAMCs of Phulpingkatti and Marming other parts of Gaurishankar Conservation GCAP conducted mass education and VDCs of Sindhupalchok were effectively Area are under pressure from illegal awareness program through publishing involved and mobilized in joint patrolling trade of the parts of endangered species. 4000 pieces of awareness materials with police force and seized four illegally Since GCA is considered to have the to build a participatory community possessed guns. major underground illegal wildlife trade routes and little information is known movement aimed at curbing illegal Jointly with Media Center of Charikot, or available on the trend and volume of wildlife trade. The material has helped in a day Photo exhibition was organized illegal wildlife trade in the area. GCAP creating awareness during the meetings at Charikot on June 5 where the Project initiated to implement the wildlife trade and peoples’ dialogue. Radio program purchased and exhibited more than controlling activities, such as mapping of also broadcasted through Bimeshwar 30 photos related to major tourism illegal wildlife trade route/hunting spots, FM of Dolakha related to wildlife trade destinations within GCA. A total of 861 conduction of awareness campaign, control and awareness from January to individuals observed the exhibition. coordination meetings, community June. mobilizations and awareness materials GCAP has organized conservation Controlling Wildlife Trade publications under the grant support of awareness Programs in Shyama, WWF Nepal. Demands of wildlife products have been Phulpingkatti, Alampu and Rolwaling the major factor to increase poaching of GCAP organized training for security area of GCA on April, May and June. wildlife and illegal trade of its products personnel, CAMCs members, custom The awareness programs in Rolwaling in Nepal. Seizure of wildlife parts such as officials and GCAP staffs on February area was participated of CDO, LDO, DEO, rhino horn, tiger skins and bones leopard 17 at Tatopani of Sindhupalchok aiming Upper Tamakoshi Hydropower officers, skins in the considerable amount by to facilitate them in controlling illegal VDCs, CAMCs of related area, women enforcement officials in different parts of wildlife trade in the trade routes of groups, school teachers, students and Nepal in recent years has shown that the GCA. GCA organized 4 units of trainings youth groups of GCA. Similarly, various illegal trade of wildlife parts exists and for youth groups, CAMCs, LRPs and awareness programs like, conservation even growing in Nepal. Conservation guards about the wildlife songs, mass meeting, conservation related speech, conservation games and Open border with India in the south and trade control in the area. Conservation education is initiated in six high schools dance were organized on the occasion different terrain and accessible mountain of World Environment Day on June passes in the north bordering with in GCA. Wildlife trade control training was also organized for the teachers at 5. Information Boards were posted in Tibetan Autonomous Region of China has 7 places of Lamabagar, Tatopani and often been used as safe passage for the Secondary school of Suri, Chuchure and Bulung. Ghorthali area to raise awareness.

Janurary to June, 2014 11 Project Update

commination materials, display board, information board and furniture and the physical maintenance were also accomplished. Similarly, in Chhetchhet and Shivalaya the building has been repaired and all the accessories such as white board, communication materials, display board, information board, furniture, and brochure and information materials are setup. The project has been planning to install 2 units of safe drinking water stations in Simigaun and Singati of the trekking route of GCA.

Coordination meeting

GCA lies within Sacred Himalayan Landscape and borders China in the Tourism Management Program initiated in Singati to make them able to North. Tatopani of Sindhupalchok, speak English. Altogether 27 participants Thinsang of Dolakha and Deurali/ GCA is a new emerging tourist destination were benefitted from the training. Serding of Ramechhap are believed to where the numbers of tourists are be underground trade routes in the increasing each year. Under the financial Boards are related to tourist information conservation area. Animal parts include support of Samarth Project, 3 units of (code of conduct) and major tourism musk pods, bear bile, leopard skin tourism management training were attractions of GCA were placed in and bones, leopard parts, live animals organized in Shivalaya, Tatopani and Tatopani, Thingsala Pass, Tashilapcha and medicinal plants. In the area, Jagat within the main tourism spots and pass, & Kalinchok area of the GCA. activities like district level coordination, trekking routes where the participants Similarly, 50 way signboards were placed advocacy, training, intelligence gathering were enriched with tourism management in May and April to guide the tourists in and informants’ network needs to knowledge and information. Rolwaling area, Cheese Curcuit (Shivalaya be strengthened. GCAP organized area), Kalinchok area, Thingsang area a coordination meeting among the All three units of the targeted program of and Shivalaya to Deurali area of entire basic cook training in Singati, Kalinchok trekking trail of GCA. district level stakeholders of Dolakha, and Tatopani has been completed. The Ramechhap and Sindhupalchok. Chief basic cook training was provided to 62 2 check posts and information centers Districts Officers, Deputy Superintendent lodge owners including local people from are established in strategic locations of Police, Local Development Officers and Home stay of Bigu, Simigaun. The training namely in Chhetchhet of Dolakha District District Forest Officers of the 3 districts, aimed at strengthening the capacity of the and Phulpingkatti of Sindupalchok social activists, journalists including hoteliers in preparing diversified quality District. The centers are equipped chairperson and secretary of 15 CAMCs food items which helps in the promotion with all the accessories such as laptop, of Dolakha, and Sindhupalchok attended and management of tourism in the area. desktop computer, printer, white board, the meeting held at Singati. Similarly, the menu standardization for Bigu which has initiated homestay was also accomplished. The boards were also provided for 10 homestay household and a homestay location board was also placed in the main entrance of the home stay village for its promotion. To develop the capacity of local people and facilitate the visitors by local people Nature Guide training was provided to 21 selected individuals of Dolakha, Sindupalchok and Ramechhap districts. Similarly, to mitigate communication barriers with the visitors it is essential for nature guide, basic english language training was

12 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

Central Zoo

Conservation Education and Extension

Friends of Zoo (FOZ), an innovative and creative program of NTNC-Central Zoo in campaigning of conservation education among the school students which has been model for the other south Asian countries too, is being very effective in spreading the conservation messages and to create awareness among the school students. Observation and feeding program for the captive animals, night guided tour, observational trips and talk programs and the different extracurricular activities like, drama, drawing, singing and writing competitions are the major regular activities offered to the FOZ members in order to build their capacity on natural resources management knowledge on human-wildlife conflict and to increase the level of understanding and various conservation and income issues. about wildlife, nature and ecosystems. generating activities in Ghandruk. Similarly, same tour was also organized Another tour for the FOZ coordinators Night Guided Tour for the FOZ members for the junior FOZ members from grade was organized to Bhujung of Annapurna was organized in December and January. Conservation Area fromth 4 to 7th 5-7 to Chitwan National Park. Altogether A total of 1318 students from 20 different February. Altogether 17 FOZ Coordinate 34 FOZ members from 9 different schools schools actively participated in the tour teachers from 12 school participated in participated in the tour and were briefed program. Even in the chilling winter the tour. Bhujung, the largest Gurung about Biodiversity Conservation Center FOZ members showed interest and settlement in ACA, located at an altitude (BCC) and its activities along with the enthusiasm to learn about the behavior of 1600 meters from sea level in North importance of Chitwan National Park in of nocturnal animals in captivity. An West of Beshisahar, Lamjung. The main Educational tour was organized for the conservation endeavor. An interaction objective of the tour was to acquaint senior FOZ Members from grade 8-10 to program was organized with the students teachers with Integrated Conservation Ghandruk of Annapurna Conservation of Shree Bachhauli Higher Secondary and Development Program conducted Area. Altogether 25 FOZ members from School through which FOZ members got in ACAP. On the occasion, an interaction 9 different schools acquired knowledge an opportunity to explore and share their program was organized with the Bhujung UCO and Tribhuwan Vidyashram Secondary School.

Excursion Trip to National Botanical garden, Godavari was organized on 17th February and 21st February for public and private school students to generate ideas on ex-situ and in-situ conservation and to aware FOZ members to conserve plants diversity through the collection, propagation and exchange. A total of 45 FOZ members participated in each trip. Participants also visited the nearby area of Fisheries Breeding Centre and ICIMOD Knowledge Park. Day long solid waste management training was organized on 28th February. A total of 51 FOZ students

Janurary to June, 2014 13 Project Update

from 26 different schools participated Krishna Gharti demonstrated the physical their father which is a particular feature in the program. Pradeep Amatya, Arjun examinations too. of these birds. Captive breeding of wild Aryal and Laxmi Prasad Ghimire facilitated avian species is quite an arduous and the training. Students visited the waste To create awareness about the emerging challenging phenomenon due to the management site of the Central Zoo issues of climate change and its impact elevated release of adrenocorticotropic to learn how the Zoo wastes are being climate change awareness program was hormone, epinephrine and other stress managed. organized for FOZ members where 85 hormone; in captive the breeding students from 42 schools participated. and hatching success is compromised Inter school FOZ Quiz Contest was Dipesh Chapagain, climate change particularly in the wild exotic species. organized on 7th March with the expert facilitated the training. The FOZ However due to the intensive care and participation of 67 students from 22 Coordinator Interaction meeting was management system compounded with st schools. The Little Angles School of held on 21 March. Altogether 36 FOZ the simulation of natural ambience the Hattiban secured first position followed coordinators interacted discussed on Central Zoo successfully hatched 6 Emu by the Everest English, Bhaktapur and annual educational program. Friends of chicks and are in sound health. Similarly 6 Bijeshwori Gyan Mandir Sainik M. Zoo club (FOZC) members conducted a chicks of Nepali Kaliz pheasant have also Vidyalaya, Sayambu. World Wetland day cleanup camp inside the Zoo premises been successfully hatched in the natural nd was marked with the theme, “Wetland on 2 February. Altogether 100 FOZ Club environment. and Agriculture: Partner for Growth” on member from 15 schools participated in 2nd February, 2014. The day was marked the camp. The small mammals’ viz. Toddy cat by conducting presentation, signature (Common palm civet), Himalayan Palm and cleanup camp with the participation Animal Management civet, Large Indian civet, Leopard cat, of 25 FOZ members of 5 schools. After the intensive treatment and care in Jungle cat and Porcupine of Central Zoo International Biodiversity day was quarantine Gauri- a rescued red panda is are now enjoying in its newly constructed marked with the drawing competition transferred to her new home in the Zoo. enclosure. The enclosure is enriched on the theme of ‘Mountain Biodiversity’ She was rescued from the eastern part according to the habitat, nature and on 22nd May to increase understanding of Nepal and was brought to the Zoo in requirement of the animals. The lair are and awareness of mountain biodiversity 2012. Gauri’s new home has all the facility well furnished with wooden logs, newly and conservation efforts. Altogether 42 required along with her favorite food planted trees, tree branches, green students from 21 schools participated in bamboo planted all over her enclosure grasses etc. Due to the perennial human the competition where Anushka Shrestha with air condition room. encroachment and other anthropogenic of Ideal Model Higher Secondary, activities the natural habitat of wildlife Sanim K.C of The Excelsior, Anish Rai of A pair of Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae), is waning day by day. Perhaps due to Gyanodaya International Residential, housed in 2012 hatched 4 chicks last year such human misdemeanor the common Kumari Budhathoki and Shreejana now the couple is expanding its family, monitor lizard has been spotted from Khaling Rai of Bijeshwori Gyan Mandir this year again after 58 days of incubation Sankhu, Kathmandu on 10th June within Sainik Maha Vidyalaya and Bhaktapur 6 eggs were hatched and their family the periphery of human settlement. It English School bagged first, second ,third has expanded to 10. The chicks are in was rescued and brought to the Central and consolation prize respectively. good health and are being reared by Zoo. In order to provide membership and to encourage pubic schools in conservation education, the Central Zoo supported 250 students from 5 different public schools namely Mahalaxmi Lower Secondary, Nakhipot; Bishnu Devi Shiksha Sadan, Satungal; Bishwa Mitra Ganesh Madyamik, Lubhu; Adarsha Saula Yubak Higher Secondary, Bungmati and Chundavi Madyamik, Thankot in the fiscal year. FOZ members spent a day with a vet Dr. Roshika Shrestha, consultant vet of the Central Zoo accompanying on general health check up of captive animals. During the practical session, Assistant Curator Ganesh Koirala and Senior Veterinary Technician Radha

14 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

participating in a talk program delivered by Dr. Balaram Thapa, Chief Consultant Surgeon. Dr. Thapa shared his knowledge regarding the precautions to be taken while handling the animals infected with the disease and how to keep the animal healthy. Altogether 25 staffs from animal management took part in the event on February 9.

Differently abled visited Zoo

Zoo visit program for the differently abled children was organized on 27th March and 28th April. A total of 20 disabled students and 8 teachers from Patan Community Based Rehabilitation Organization (Patan Zoo Networking Meeting the Member Secretary of the NTNC, CBR) visited the Zoo. Likewise 15 children concluding the meeting, thanked Mr. from Creative Hands of Deaf Women In order to discuss the common issues of Bonal for his presence and all other (CHWD) visited and observed the Zoo. zoo management and share information participants for attending the meeting The student observed the animals of Zoo, with mini zoos, the NTNC - Central Zoo and making it successful. and attended the talk program. organized the Zoo Networking Meeting on May 25 at its office in Jawalakhel Capacity Enhancement Sir John Chapple in the Zoo Lalitpur. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Govinda Gajurel, the member Secretary NTNC-Central Zoo has organized a 2 Field Marshal Sir John Chapple, Chairman days training on “Training for High of the Trust and Mr. Bishan Singh Bonal of UK Trust for Nature Conservation in Performance” which was facilitated by Member Secretary, Central Zoo Authority Nepal visited the central Zoo and explored Mr. Min Ghale from Nalma Academy, of India was the Chief Guest which was the ongoing infrastructure development Lalitpur. Altogether 75 staff participated also attended by government officials of the Zoo. Sir John appreciated the work in the program. The training helped to and representatives from various mini initiated by the Zoo. He also observed Zoos and animal facilities in Nepal. increase the performance on task and focus on group work for better and fruitful the conservation education activities. Likewise Dr. Nic Masters veterinarian Mr. Bonal highlighted the guideline output on performance and also provided required for the establishment of Zoo opportunities to lift capability and from Zoological Society of London, UK and to keep wild animals in reference performance and bring everyone together visited the Zoo, Dr. Master delivered to the examples of the Indian Zoos. He to achieve significant milestones. The Zoo the talk program related with pheasant also shared and showed the examples of keepers and the vet team of the Central breeding and general health care and various enclosure designs and the food Zoo got an opportunity to enhance their disease to the animal management and enrichment required for the Zoo animals. knowledge on Rabies and tuberculosis Zoo keepers. Ms Sarita Jnawali, Project Manager of Central Zoo highlighted the importance of Zoo networking and how the Zoos can play role in promoting tourism. She also emphasized on the need of Zoo policy and legislation and its importance for smooth operation of all the animal facilities in Nepal.

Dr. Maheshwor Dhakal, Ecologist of DNPWC congratulated all the mini zoos for taking care of the wild animals as a rescue centre by providing shelter to the animals. He also shared government views in establishing rescue centers at regional level to minimize the issues of human wildlife conflict. Mr. Gajurel,

Janurary to June, 2014 15 Project Update

Biodiversity Conservation Center (BCC)

Research and Monitoring

Barandabhar Corridor Forest (BCF) is the only corridor of Nepal that connects Terai Arc Landscape and the Chitwan Annapurna Landscape. Regular monitoring of tigers and their prey is important to understand the functionality of the corridor. This year, the survey was carried out in BCF under the USAID funded Hariyo Ban Program. Similarly prey base population estimates were carried out using distance sampling both on foot and from the elephant. Six individual tigers including four males and two females were recorded from 29 camera stations. Among them, only male was captured in the area. Prey density in the BCF is found higher (78.48 animals/ about 600 local youths and among them Sauraha. 19 officer level personnel km2) higher than overall estimates for 250 are working as professional guides representing protected areas and district Chitwan National Park in 2013 (73.63 under the Nature Guide Association. forest offices participated the training. animals/km2). Nature guide in Chitwan is a fast growing In order to make the locals skilled and ID based rhino monitoring, one of the green sector job with good incentive/ incapacitate them for income generation major initiative of NTNC in Terai protected exposure and is one of the successful areas was initiated in 2008 by NTNC-BCC community engagement programs to house wiring training was organized to 5 in close collaboration with DNPWC, WWF bring communities in conservation as individuals selected by the Thangkhola Nepal and Darwin Initiative/Zoological well as build local guardianship. Under Community Forest from Padampur and Society of London. An ID profile is built the Hariyo Ban Program, BCC organized Jutpani VDC. The training is ongoing up for each animal along with a photo, 7 days nature guide training from June 3 at Shree Kalika College of Technology, which is then maintained in a database. to 9, where 7 participants from Manaslu Bharatpur which includes both theoretical Such profiling is a valuable tool for long- Conservation Area and 20 from Chitwan/ and practical classes. Nawalparasi area participated. term monitoring of rhinos and also Human Wildlife Conflict (HWC) helps to determine the population size The International Consortium on Mitigation in a particular area. Total 172 individual Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC) states ID profile was prepared in CNP. In order that wildlife crime is acts committed HWC, a major threat in wildlife to assess the status of rhino, sweep contrary to national laws and regulation conservation, caused by crop raiding, operation was conducted in BCF in April intended to protect natural resources livestock depredation, human 27-30, 2014. During the operation 7 and to administer their management casualties by wild animals and few rhinos were recorded in the area. and use, that included illicit exploitation cases of retaliatory killings of wildlife in of natural resources such as poaching of surrounding to the protected areas and Capacity Enhancement fauna and flora particularly falls under forests has been a serious problem for Four events of community based anti- threatened status. Furthermore, it also the conservationists. To combat HWC and poaching units (CBAPU) training were covers activities regarding processing of motivate local people in conservation, conducted in BCF area from January animal and plants parts into products, different measures have been applied to June 2014. After the training, their carriage, sale and possession. Under such as trenching and fencing, electric strengthening and mobilization supports the Strengthening Regional Cooperation fence, alternative cropping etc. Under the were provided to 5 CBAPUs (4 from BCF for Wildlife Protection in Asia Project, support of Hariyo Ban Program, 3.33 km and one from Manahari) with an aim to develop human resources, fencing has been installed in Bhimwali and NTNC, DNPWC and DOF organized a week Barandabhar CF and 4.5 km was installed Nature Guide Training is a regular program "Scene of Crime and Wildlife Forensics under the Kerunga user committee in of BCC since last 20 years. BCC trained Training" during February 16-22 at BCC, Jagatpur. Similarly, maintenance of the

16 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

Gyaneshwor forest block at first stage. Then after, the Gyaneshwor forest block organized interaction workshop with hoteliers at Sauraha. Feedback gained from the interaction workshop and considering the interest of local community they decided to initiate rafting program from Narayanghat to Gyaneshwor. After a successful piloting of rafting on 27th May they invited all stakeholders including government line agencies, political parties and journalists for boating on nd2 June. The forest block is working on grassland management, bird trails. They lunched website, prepared brochure and conducted awareness raising activities. existing fence was also done. 2 days Community Forest initiated to restore Alternative Energy Promotion training was organized for forest guards the Tal making soil boundary around to of the concerned community forests. collect water. Local resources were used Bio-gas support program is one of the 5 local resource persons (LRPs) were to excavate soil from Tal area and to fill successful programs of NTNC-BCC. Under employed in Gyaneshwor, Panchakanya, the soil in boundary. Chaturmukhi is also the financial support of Hariyo Ban Tikauli, Thangkhola and Budi Rapti user planning to pump underground water Program and other organizations, Kumroj committee for three months period for using electricity/solar power for regular VDC in buffer zone of CNP was declared regular maintenance and monitoring of water source in the Tal. 56 feet deep bore as "First Model Biogas VDC of Nepal" in the fence. has been made to harness water from the 2013. During the period, supports were ground. The length of restored Gaida Tal provided to install 193 biogas plants; Natural Resources 50 to Panchakanya Community Forest, is 300 m and width is 40 m. Conservation 50 to Manahari user committee 39 to In order to remove the Mikania and to Tourism Promotion Program Sonakhari user committee, 5 to Nirmal restore the water in Aapsoti ghol as in the user committee, 49 to Amleshwor user years earlier, approximately 25 ha area in Gyaneshwor forest block comprises four committee, and 377 plants to Thangkhola Barandabhar corridor forest was cleared community forests namely Gyaneshwor, Community forest. 193 biogas plants by removing Mikania manually. The area, Seti Devi, Siddhi Ganesh and Majuwa. installation was successfully completed in last few years was fully covered by A meeting was organized at NTNC-BCC and 377 plants in Padampur VDC are in Mikania and went dry during April-May. with an aim to promote ecotourism at process of installation. Under the financial support of Hariyo Ban Program through NTNC-BCC Tikauli BZCF mobilized its users to remove all Mikania.

Support was provided to Chaturmukhi Community Forest to restore Gaida Tal, a regular habitat of rhinos in BCF. Up to 2021 BS, there was water in Gainda Tal and was used for irrigation in surrounding village. After the Government's decision to establish Mirgakunja in the area villagers were evacuated and the Gainda Tal eventually dried out. The Tal had enough water for rhinos till 2060 BS. but after the resettlement of the Padampur village, Tal dried out due to deforestation, habitat destruction, and may be the climate change impacts. Hence, Chaturmukhi

Janurary to June, 2014 17 Project Update

Conservation Education and Extension

On the occasion of 104th international women’s day, BCC, in collaboration with Synergy FM and Budi Rapti user committee recognized 7 local women who have contributed in biodiversity conservation and women’s empowerment in buffer zone area of CNP. The event was marked on 8th March with rewarding the selected women with certificate and prize. Similarly, 19th wildlife week was marked all over the first week of Nepali New Year. The celebration program was organized jointly by CNP, BCC and other conservation partners. Various programs including BCF cleaning, bird watching, and crocodile counting in Rapti River were organized. treatment, this baby rhino leg has now animals, after some months stay in The Honorable Minister for Forests and healed and is walking, grazing and eating captivity was released in the wild on 18th Soil Conservation and the Chairperson of normally. April. It was immobilized, micro chipped NTNC Mr. Mahesh Acharya was the chief and then transported in transport cage guest of the closing session. Sub-adult rhino, accidently escaped and released in the Temple tiger area from its habitat was rescued from back in the wild. An interaction program on benefits Makawanpur ca 100 km distance from of biogas on women was organized at Sauraha. It suffered nail crack, pad loss Collaring of a wild bull Kumroj VDC. Budi Rapti user committee and extreme exhaustion when attempts elephant and Synergy FM jointly organized the were carried out to push it back to CNP program with the support of Hariyo Ban area. After the veterinary treatment with Ronaldo, a wild bull visiting to Elephant Program. The event with participation fluids, antibiotics and analgesics as well as Breeding Center (EBC), Khorsor and of around 100 was live broadcasted by topical treatment for its wound, the rhino NTNC-BCC for breeding with captive Synergy FM 91.6 MZ. was translocated to Sauraha on 22nd April females, was immobilized for the with a full equipped team of CNP, Parsa purpose of study through satellite Animal Management Wildlife Reserve and NTNC-BCC with based positioning. Immobilization was performed on 10th January with well- NTNC-BCC rescued a male baby rhino support from DFO Makawanpur, Nepal equipped veterinary and technician team of about 5-6 months from Syalbas area police and local people. This rhino is still of CNP and BCC. Samples were collected, of western Chitwan, which survived the under regular monitoring and veterinary minor wounds on its body were treated attack of the tiger and thus separated from care due to the ulcer and wear off of its and a satellite collar was placed in its its mother on 26th February and taken into footpads causing difficulty in walking. neck. Due to the abnormal position and veterinary care. The baby was provided A problematic tiger was captured from intensive veterinary management with head not extended for collar positioning, Shitalpur Madi on December, 2013 and the collar become loose when the animal regular wound dressing, antibiotics, held captive at Kasara became severely ill analgesics and supportive treatment for was awake. Unfortunately, it took out its and anorexic. The treatment began on 28th collar the next day. its deep penetrating wounds on right fore January 2014 with remote drug injection feet and fractures. Two bone fragments in which the antibiotic and vitamins were recovered during the course of was injected trough the dart syringe. treatment. This baby was fed with Treatment continued daily for a week and commercial skimmed milk and additional the tiger gradually resumed eating. The grasses adlib during the treatment. wound over its back was treated topically Additionally apples, spinach, bananas, with betadine, maggoticial drugs, and carrots were also incorporated into the antibiotic powder. This tiger recovered diet along with additional vitamins and healing of its wound. minerals. Maize flour has now been incorporated in feed along with milk as Another captive held tiger caught on concentrate ration. For about 4 month December- 2013 as it was killing domestic

18 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

Bardia Conservation Program (BCP)

NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION PROGRAM

NTNC-BCP is managing 2 forest nurseries in Betahani since 1993 and in Banjariya since 1996. In the nurseries, 27,800 poly bag and 42,600 bare root seedlings of 17 species are grown for plantation in public and private land. To protect the forest from fire, the existing fire lines were timely cleaned in 15 BZCFs of Suryapatuwa and Thakurdwara VDCs. A total of 91.83 km fire line was upgraded mobilizing 2294 households. 6 BZCFs declared their community forests as grazing control zone. Before the declaration, awareness campaign was organized in 9 BZCFs to aware on disadvantages of uncontrolled grazing and alternative measures to CBAPUs, BZUCs and other stakeholders at for protected area manager of western reduce cattle and promoting stall feeding. Thakurdwara. and far western region in the last week Hoarding boards are also installed in 7 of January. 18 protected area managers places to display grazing control message. MIST has been initiated in BNP as a participated in the training. Similarly, Invasive species mainly Banmara (lantana trial in Karnali flood plain since October camera) has spreaded covering the local journalists were also oriented 2011 and intensively incorporating the on climate change issues. Another Karnali flood plain of BNP and buffer patrolling team from Babai valley since zone since last 10 years. The Khayer- awareness session was conducted for the February 2012 by selecting poaching 15 community members representing sissoo forest and grassland are being prone 8 posts of Babai valley. Now MIST lantana CAPA, CBAPU and BZUC on June. replaced with causing scarcity has been operating from 31 posts of of grasses, fuel wood and timber for the BNP. BCP has been supporting for the Human Wildlife Conflict users of buffer zone community forest of continuation of MIST in BNP with the Minimization Thakurdwara and Suryaptuwa VDCs. BCP, support of WWF Nepal. A total of 2658 under the Hariyo Ban Program provided patrols were performed during the period Human-wildlife conflict in the buffer supports to 6 BZCFs for the removal of covering 19,528 Sq. km. During the zone of BNP is increasing. To minimize lantana in corridor forest. period, one gun fire, 2 encroachments, conflict and reduce damage made by wildlife, about 119 Km of electric fence Community Based Anti-poaching Unit 138 fire wood collections, 47 fishing, 92 (CBAPU) is youth focused conservation livestock grazing and 6 NTFP collections have already installed and in this year, initiative first initiated by the 45 youths were recorded. A Total of 14 species of 2.5 km fence is extended in Bagnaha VDC. of Dalla Village in 2009. As the extension, mammal were sighted including tigers, Additional 4 power back up with energizer 78 CBAPU sub-committees are reformed rhinos and elephants. were installed in Ishwarigunj, Bhatera, in 13 VDCs of the district. To enhance the Motipur and Gobrella with the support capacity of CBAPUs youth orientation BCP facilitated for the formulation of of International Elephant Foundation trainings were organized for 383 CAPA of Godana of Neulapur VDC, Bardia. (IEF), Hariyo Ban Program and AWELY members of 14 CBPAUs. Similarly, grants A total of 29 vulnerable households France. BCP has also been providing were provided for their institutional were identified, and they devised a support for the extension, upgrading and strengthening. A three day proposal and number of activities in the CAPAs to maintenance of existing power fence. report writing training was organized for address these vulnerabilities. During the Community people hired the fence guard 17 CBAPUs members of Thakurdwara, period as mention in CAPA two irrigation for timely repair and maintenance of the Shivapur and Suryapatuwa VDCs. systems were installed in Godana. River fence. An electric fence management Similarly, 5 CBAPU members received control works (gabion check dam) is also fund is established in 5 BZUCs which will one month house wiring training and 37 construed in Orahi river with the support be used for the partial salary of guard, youths are involved in income generation of District Soil Conservation Office, purchase of repair materials and timely activities. CBAPU day was marked on th11 Kailali. Climate change and biodiversity maintenance of machine and other March with the active participation of conservation training was organized accessories.

Janurary to June, 2014 19 Project Update

Chiurigaira Village of Chhinchu VDC. It starts fruiting after three years of plantation and can fetch good income. The 29 farmers are involved in commercial lemon plantation.

COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICE PROGRAM

BCP established Geruwa community health center in 1995. For the sustainable management of this center, the Project has established an endowment fund in the bank. BCP has also provided financial grant of NPR 120,000 to cover the deficit management cost of health center. During the period 2958 patients received health treatment in the center. There was no snake bite treatment center in To minimize livestock damage from 239 plants in 10 VDCs. The exemplary and around the BNP while the incidents predator, BCP is supporting to construct outcome of the support is Bhatera Village of snake bites are frequent. Bagnaha predator proof corral house. This year where 58 are using biogas technology BZUC, BNP and Narsingdal Gan initiated 250 corral houses were constructed in out of total 72 households. Patabhar to build a snake bite treatment center at Thakurdwara, Suryaptuwa and Shivapur BZUC declared Bhatera village as a biogas the Sainwar of Baghnaha. BCP extended th VDCs. Farmers collected locally available model village on 5 June. Supports were financial support to build a new snake materials whereas BCP provided support provided to install 99 Improved Cooking bite treatment center building and only to purchase the materials from market. Stoves (ICS), made of Iron Sheet in the in the month of June 20 patients of snake More than 120 watch towers have been Tharmuse and Sanodhungi of Lekhparajul bites were treated. constructed adjoining the park boundary BZUC and Guranse and Harrekanda of to scout the wildlife in the night. BCP Taranga-Siddhachuli BZUC in northern CONSERVATION EDUCATION PROGRAM supported to renovate the existing 15 buffer zone. watch towers of Neulapur, Thakurdwara, 30 sessions of street drama performance Suryapauwa and Shivapur. WOMEN DEVELOPMENT AND were done in different location of buffer LIVELIHOOD SUPPORT PROGRAM zone and it’s adjoining corridors. The BCP is providing stipend support to drama was prepared on human wildlife local children of wildlife victims for Orientation of GESI Mainstreaming conflict mitigation measures and its continuation of their education. A total of Strategy to BZMC/BZUC, governance precaution, importance of village youth 29 students from the project area were training in BZCF and GESI Sensitization in tiger and rhino conservation, climate awarded where 26 received NRs. 2400 Training for CBAPUs was organized on change and its impact, river poisoning each for school education and 3 received February. Altogether 69 representing and bird conservation. Conservation Rs 6000 each for higher studies. During from different CBOs participated of which awareness sessions on human wildlife the period, 5 farmers were supported 36 were female. 5 day account keeping conflict mitigation measures were for chamomile cultivation, 2 community training for BZUCs and Cooperatives was organized in 6 schools of Patabhar VDC. groups for lemon grass cultivation, 49 organized on May in collaboration with Park visit program was organized for 63 farmers for turmeric cultivation and MSFP and Co-Act Nepal. groups and 1590 members of 20 CBAPUs, 59 farmers were supported for the 21 schools and 22 community groups. promotion of mentha across the Geruwa AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK During the period, 29 conservation river. DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM education sessions were conducted among community members in Geruwa ALTERNATIVE ENERGY PROMOTION Most of the households in northern buffer region. PROGRAM zone depends on forests and natural resources, mainly non timber forest World Wetland Day was marked with Biogas is one of the major alternatives products like Amala Imblica officinalis, the slogan ‘Wetlands and agriculture: of fuel wood to minimize deforestation Kurilo Sparagus, Barro Terminilia balerica Partners for Growth’ by releasing and degradation by reducing fuel wood etc. To minimize dependency in the 3 gharilas in Babai river, cleaning consumption in rural households. park area, the Project initiated lemon campaign at Taranga, wetland visit During this period, BCP under the Hariyo Plantation as an alternative livelihood and art competition among the school Ban Program has supported to install program in the private land of Sireni students. With slogan ‘Inspire change’

20 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

International women’s day was marked 4 sub adults and 6 calves. Similarly, 8 are were brought from the Kasara breeding by organizing rally and song competition male, 11 female and 8 are unknown. center. Till now 133 and 23 gharials have with theme of conservation and women been released in Babai and Karnali River right at Thakurdwara. With slogan “Forest BCP is conducting monitoring and respectively. A male tiger was released and wildlife Nature’s foundation, our assessment of wildlife damages and on 5 January in Ratomate of Babai gift to the upcoming generation”th 19 mitigation programs in the buffer zone valley which was trans-located from the wildlife week was marked by organizing of BNP in support from AWELY-France CNP. The tiger was monitored using the interaction program, street rally, cultural since January 2009. In 2013, 190 livestock satellite radio collar. The signals were not show, street drama, tree plantation, predation events were registered and receive since 16th January. highway clean campaign, declaration 149 property damage events took place. of grazing free zone, quiz contest and The majority of crop is being damaged Student thesis grants were provided to Mr scholarship distribution on the first week by elephants. The crop raiding is highest Santosh Bhattari, M.Sc. Wildlife Biology of Nepali Year. when there is the main crop species (rice, student from Kota University, India for his wheat and maize) in the field. thesis on Population and basking pattern SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT of python bivittatus (Kuhl, 1820) in Bardia BCP under the AWELY Red Cap Nepal PROGRAM National Parkand Ms Chandrama Khadka, program has established alternative M.Sc. Forestry student from KAFCOL BNP is being gradually developed as crop research plots in western sector of for her thesis on habitat evaluation and 2nd best tourism destination after CNP buffer zone since January 2013. The aim suitability modeling of tiger (panthera in Terai. Shivpur Bandahawa CFUG of of the project is to test attractiveness, tigris tigris) using geospatial approach Thakurbaba BZUC initiated canoeing and palatability and contribution to the in Bardia National Park. Similarly, logistic recreation in the Hattisar, in the upper economic well being of the farmers and technical support was provided to part of Khata corridor. More than 200 of 9 different aromatic plant species, Pabitra Basnet, M.Sc. (Environmental groups of picnic groups chose the area namely chamomile, mentha, lemongrass, Science) student from Khowpa College, for picnic. For the better sanitation at citronella, turmeric, french basil, aloe- Bhaktapur for human wildlife conflict start vantage of canoeing, facility of toilet vera, palma-rosa and coriander. The assessment in Betahani Buffer Zone is upgraded. Similarly, BCP conducted a research plots are made outside the Community Forest. week long cooking training for 25 cooks electric fence so that the response of the The field survey was carried out during of local hotels. Similarly, Nature guide wild animal to the crop could be known. 5-13 June to know the status and training was organized for the 61 local The recent survey in 2013 shows that distribution of oriental small clawed youths on June. Participants were trained there are 16 gharials in the rivers of BNP otter and other otter species. Maximum on basic course of plants and wildlife, of which two are in Karnali and 14 are in number of smooth coated otter's signs habitat, birds, park rules and regulations, the Babai. Since 1990, 60 gharials were (foot print and spirants) and 6 smooth first aid, code of conducts of a nature released of which 30 in Babai and 30 in coated otters were recorded in Khauraha guide and guest hospitality together with Karnali River. This year, 50 gharials were River whereas there is no any evidence of field practical sessions. Altogether 28,685 released in the Babai river, of which 30 oriental small clawed otter in Karnali river visitors have visited Tharu museum in mulghant and 20 in Dhungeghat which system. and crocodile breeding center of which 18,128 are Nepali, 575 are foreigners and 9932 students.

Research and Monitoring Program

After the heavy loss of rhinos due to poaching, Intensive ID based Rhino monitoring, a simple monitoring system where each individual rhino is assigned with a particular ID and name based on its distinct physical appearance was initiated to secure the remaining individuals in BNP since 2008. At present, Master ID files of 30 rhinos are prepared in BNP of which ID 1, 11 and 12 have not been recorded since 2009. Now, there are at least 27 survival rhinos of which 17 adult,

Janurary to June, 2014 21 Project Update

Shuklaphanta Conservation Program (SCP)

Natural Resources Conservation Program

SCP has been providing stipend support of forest guards to 3 buffer zone community forests of buffer zone of SWR. This year, the project continued the stipend support to Nageshwar BZFC of Sundevi UC, Jharanasagar BZFC of Kaikitch UC and Kisan BZFC of Bageshwari UC. The support has particularly supported in conservation of biodiversity. The Project also provided the stationary and administrative support to 3 user committees of the SWR and Nageshwar BZFC. Similarly, the Project also provided technical assistance for formulation of statute, working plan to different BZFCs. Under the Hariyo Ban The Project has supported for the monitoring. Under the Hariyo Ban Program, 50,000 seedlings were grown formulation and implementation of Program, wildlife technicians of SCP and in the project nursery to be distributed community adaptation plan of action SWR are engaged in rhino monitoring for public and private plantations. (CAPA) of Jhalari-6 Simalphanta and it is found thah there are 9 individual The Species includes Acasia catechu, community. Under the plan, support rhinos in SWR which includes 3 female 2 Dalbergia sissoo, Dendrocalamus strictus, was provided to install the giabion wall male and 4 are unknown (calves). Pterocarpus marsupium, Dalbergia to control landslide in the banks of river. latifolia, Phyllanthus emblica Terminalia 1000 copies of summarized CAPA leaflet On the occasion of wildlife week, the chebula, Terminalia bellirica, Bauhinia were produced and distributed in the first week of Nepali New Year, SCP in variegate etc. Similarly, SCP, under the community. In order to coordinate the collaboration with SWR conducted AWELY Green Cap Project produced more efforts made by different governmental swamp deer counting in the SWR. The than 10,000 seedlings of the different and non-governmental sectors, under the result shows that there are 2301 swamp species of put grass. AWELY Green Cap, coordination meeting deer in SWR. Among them 777 are male, is being regularly organized in Beldandi. 1390 female and 134 are yearlings which In order to raise the awareness on is higher by 131 individuals compared biodiversity conservation and to show its Wildlife Research and to last year. SWR holds largest herd of importance in human life, SCP conducted Monitoring swamp deer in the world. 2 units of training to community based anti-poaching sub committees of Sundevi As, 2013’s census revealed that the total The Project provided research grant and Bageshwari UC. The training was tiger population in SWR is 17. Under the to Ms Asmita Rawal, studying in BSc in Hariyo Ban Program, the Project also mainly focused on the biodiversity of Pokhara University to carry out research monitored the tiger population which SWR, Legal provisions and the rights and in “Assessment of Carbon Stock on Dead revealed that there are 14 to 20 tigers responsibility of sub-committee. Similarly, Woods in SWR”. in SWR. The monitoring was carried out supports were provided to formulate from February 14 to March 8 (33 days) by Alternative Energy Promotion a statute and action plan of CBAPU dividing entire SWR into 2 blocks with 81 Program subcommittees. Different trainings were grids. conducted during the period which SCP has been providing supports to includes training to post in-charges and Similarly, intensive ID based rhino install the biogas plants aiming to reduce security personnel of Garud Dal Gan on monitoring, a major program of SCP the firewood collection and pressure on GPS and patrolling form; gender and is ongoing to identify the population, natural forests. The project, selected social inclusion training to community habitat and movement of individual 4 major areas to make model biogas based anti-poaching sub committees and rhinos in and around the SWR. Individual villages. SCP supports sum of NRS 10,000 governance training to BZFCs. ID profile was prepared based on the rupees to each plant in the community.

22 Janurary to June, 2014 Project Update

Similarly, under the AWELY Green Cap project supports were provided to install 10 plants in Beldandi and Bhim Dutta municipality area. During the year, altogether 65 (Hariyo Ban-55, AWELY 10) households were supported in Shuklaphanta, Kalikitch and Kalika user committees.

On the occasion of World Environment Day 2014, the Aeiya Women User Group (AWUG) of Katan, Bhimdatta Muncipality-14 was declared as a “Model Biogas User Group”. A total of 323 biogas plants were supported in 4 BZUCs. 32 households installed plants out of 38 households in the village which includes 27 biogas plant from SCP, 4 from Park count was done in SWR and a day was Residents, residing nearby the SWR and People Program and 1 was privately marked with formal event. An interaction jungle areas have been facing many installed. program was organized on April 19 on the wildlife conflicts because of their open In order to reduce the fire wood theme of the year, “Ban ra Banyajantu, toilets in the jungle area. So, The Project consumption, the Project supported Prakritika Adhar: Bhabi Santatilai hamro supported to construct improved toilets Upahar 191 households with improved cooking ” among the officials of SWR, SCP, in 20 households of the buffer zone area. Ganum Dal Gan, conservation activists stoves (ICS). Under the Hariyo Ban Supports were provided to 6 households and community people. International Program, supports were provided to 121 in Piparaiya of Shuklaphanta UC, 3 Women’s day was marked on 8 March at households of Rataulibichawa Ward no 8 households in Gobaraiya of Kalika UC, 2 SCP’s office, Chandmari. & 9 and 70 households of Jhalari Ward households in Gobariya of Bageshwari UC and 9 households in Rataulibichawa no 2. World Environment Day was marked of Deurali UC. 2 guard posts were jointly with SWR by organizing an Conservation Education and constructed in Shuklaphanta - 2 to control interaction program on the theme of Extension Program and monitor the movements of wildlife in the year, “Raise Your Voice, Not the Sea the area. The Project, with an aim to raise Level” which was translated as “Himal awareness among the community Bachaun, Batabaran Jogaun” in order to In order to make the local people self- people conducted different conservation make it more relevant to Nepali context. sustained in terms of their basic needs awareness programs in the buffer zone Biodiversity day was marked on May 16 through income generation activities and areas. During the period, conservation with an interaction program on “role of to motivate them in conservation, SCP awareness program was conducted women in conservation” at Beldandi, organized 2 days ginger and turmeric Kanchanpur. The event was attended by among 145 people of the buffer zone farming training to 6 members of Janaki women members of 5 groups of Kalikitch area. Among them 120 were female and User Group under Shuklaphanta UC. They and Bageshwari users committees. the sessions were presented by officials were also supported with some seeds of SWR and Garun Dal Gan and other Community Development and of the ginger and turmeric. Similarly, 3 stakeholders. Under the AWELY Green Relief Program months tailoring and sewing training was Cap, the Project conducted awareness organized to 20 women from 3 UCs of campaign among the representatives of 9 The Project has been continuing the buffer zone of SWR. They are taking groups of 3 UCs. The Project conducted conservation education programs among training in SCP supported and promoted conservation awareness sessions among school students of the region. In order tailoring centers in Mahendranagar Bazar 480 school students of 16 schools in the to improve the school infrastructure and of Kanchanpur. The trainers were also area. provide better educational environment, trained by SCP previously. the Project supported a set of computer National and international conservation and printer to Siddhanath Lower The Project also supported for artificial related days were marked by organizing Secondary School, Bagphant of Bhimautta insemination of local domestic cows for the special events on the occasion. municipality. Total 550 students and 18 their timely breeding. There are 196 cows During the wildlife week, swamp deer teachers benefitted by the support. under the 4 groups Shuklaphanta UC.

Janurary to June, 2014 23 Photo Credits: ACAP, MCAP, GCAP, BCC, BCP, SCP, PCP, Central Zoo Prakriti PrakritiNational Trust for Nature Conservation Editorial Board : Khumaltar, Lalitpur Mr. Ganga Jang Thapa P. O. Box : 3712, Kathmandu, Nepal. Mr. Binod Basnet Tel.: 977-1-5526571 Fax : 977-1-5526570 Mr. Numraj Khanal Website : www.ntnc.org.np E-mail : [email protected]