Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022)

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Government of Nepal Ministry of Forests and Environment Department of Forests

BBIJAYSALIJAYSAL CCONSERVATIONONSERVATION ACTIONACTION PLAN,PLAN, NEPALNEPAL ((2018-2022)2018-2022)

Government of Nepal Ministry of Forests and Environment Department of Forests Publisher: Department of Forests, Ministry of Forests and Environment, Kathmandu, Nepal

Citation: DoF, 2018. Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022). Department of Forest, Ministry of Forests and Environment, Kathmandu, Nepal

Cover photo credits: Bijaysal © Dipesh Pyakurel

Acronyms and Abbreviations

AFO Assistant Forest Offi cer BZCF Buffer Zone Community Forests CBAPU Community Based Anti-Poaching Units CBD Convention on Biological Diversity CBOs Community Based Organizations CDB-TU Central Department of Botany, Tribhuvan University CFs Community Forests CFCC Community Forest Coordination Committee CoFMC Collaborative Forest Management Committee CFUG Community Forest User Group CSO Civil Society Organization DADO District Agricultural Development Offi ce DFO District Forest Offi ce/Offi cer DFRS Department of Forests Research and Survey DLSO District Livestock Services Offi ce DNPWC Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation DoF Department of Forests DoI Department of Industries DPR Department of Plant Resources FECOFUN Federation of Community Forest Users, Nepal FGD Focus Group Discussion FO Forest Offi ces FUG Forest User Group (including CFUGs, BZCFUGs) GoN Government of Nepal IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature IoF Institute of Forestry LG Local Government MOFE Ministry of Forests and Environment NARC National Agriculture Research Council NRM Natural Resource Management NBSAP Nepal National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2014-2020 NGO Non-Governmental Organization NTNC National Trust for Nature Conservation PS Private Sector SDG Sustainable Development Goals USAID United States Agency for International Development WWF World Wildlife Fund Nepal ZSL Zoological Society of London

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) v

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements ...... iii Acronyms and Abbreviations ...... v Executive Summary ...... ix Chapter 1: The Context ...... 1 1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Relevance of the Action Plan ...... 1 1.2 Action Plan Development Process ...... 1 1.3 Structure of the Action Plan ...... 2 Chapter 2: Background ...... 3 2.1 Species Introduction ...... 3 2.2 Global and National Status and Distribution ...... 4 Chapter 3: Issues, Threats, Challenges and Opportunities ...... 7 3.1 Issues...... 7 3.2 Threats and Challenges ...... 7 3.3 Collaboration and Coordination ...... 7 3.4 Opportunities ...... 8 3.5 Laws and Policy Frameworks ...... 8 Chapter 4: Conservation Efforts and Major Achievements ...... 9 4.1 National Level Efforts...... 9 4.2 District Level Efforts ...... 9 Chapter 5: Conservation Action Plan ...... 11 5.1 Goal...... 11 5.2 Objectives, Strategies and Actions ...... 11 Chapter 6: Implementation Arrangements ...... 15 6.1 Institutional Arrangements ...... 15 6.2 Financial Resources ...... 15 6.3 Sustainable Financing ...... 15 6.4 Major Stakeholders ...... 16 6.5 Implementation, Monitoring, Evaluation and Review of the Plan ...... 16

References...... 17 Annex ...... 19

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) vii List of Tables

Table 1: Proposed year-wise budget allocation ...... 15

List of Figures

Figure 1: Global distribution of Malabar Kino ...... 4 Figure 2: Natural distribution of Bijaysal in Nepal ...... 5 Figure 3: Lopped Bijaysal trees in Saraswati CF, Kapilvastu ...... 7 Figure 4: Proposed Bijaysal conservation site in Kapilvastu ...... 10 Figure 5: Tagged trees in Kanchanpur ...... 10

Annexes

Annex 1: Activity matrix with budget and responsibility for ﬁ ve years ...... 19

viii Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) Executive Summary

Nepal’s obligation to Convention on Biological Diversity holistic approach. This need eventually culminated in the includes the preparation of Nepal National Biodiversity preparation of the Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan 2018- Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2014-2020. One of the 2022. The plan preparation process involved an intensive prioritized actions of NBSAP is to prepare and implement review of conservation action plans for priority faunal conservation action plans for priority species. The Bijaysal species together with an extensive review of related Conservation Action Plan is prepared by the Department literature, fi eld studies to gather local-level information, of Forests to achieve the objectives set by NBSAP and consultations with experts, presentation of the draft report is the fi rst conservation action plan for plant species in and collection of feedback, and fi nalization of the plan. Nepal. Confi ned to an altitude of 100 m to 500 m, Bijaysal (Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb.) has a limited global and The goal of this plan is to increase the population of national distribution. In Nepal, this species is naturally Bijaysal while its objective is to maintain a healthy distributed at the foothills of Siwaliks in Kanchanpur, population in natural habitats. The other objective is to Kailali, Bardia, Banke, Kapilvastu, Rupandehi and promote in-situ and ex-situ conservation, and ensure Nawalparasi districts. A few trees have also been traced in sustainable use of this species in Nepal. The plan sets out Palpa and Arghakhachi districts. The major threats to this following three specifi c objectives: species include low germination and slow growth; high grazing pressure; extensive lopping for fodder; harvesting 1. Enhance the understanding and knowledge about the of wood and extraction of Kino gum for economic purposes distribution, status, propagation, ecology and habitat and medicinal use. Owing to these threats, this species of Bijaysal for the long-term conservation of the is globally declining. For this reason, the Government of species. Nepal has imposed a ban on the felling, transportation 2. Increase viable population of Bijaysal by 15% at and export of Bijaysal. Also, this species falls in ‘near the national level through the management of its threatened’ category of the Red List of the International potential habitats. Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 3. Strengthen multi-stakeholder participation for the conservation of Bijaysal. Some in-situ conservation initiatives of Bijaysal in Nepal include gene pool conservation, population estimation The budget required to implement this plan is estimated in some districts, and establishment of seed orchard at around NRs 26.95 million (US$ 269,500) for a period of and the geo-tagging of trees. While these activities are fi ve years. encouraging, the conservation of this species needs a

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) ix

Chapter 1: The Context

1 Introduction

1.1. Relevance of the Action Plan 1.2 Action Plan Development Process Government of Nepal is committed to conserve and The action plan preparation team collected and reviewed safeguard threatened and endangered fl ora and fauna. available secondary information pertaining to different Biodiversity conservation, its sustainable use and equitable aspects of Bijaysal conservation. The team also reviewed benefi t sharing are the main objectives of Convention on policies, strategies, reports, and other related national Biological Diversity (CBD). The aim of the Convention is to and international publications. Field consultations were address the adverse impacts on biological resources due done with District Forest Offi cers (DFOs), researchers and to anthropogenic activities. The CBD envisions achieving community forest users in six different Terai districts its targets and objectives through Aichi Biodiversity of Nepal where Bijaysal is reported. Literature review, Targets and Global Strategy for Plant Conservation. Nepal data (primary and secondary) collection and extensive duly prepared the ‘Nepal Biodiversity Strategy’ in 2002 consultations were the three major steps adopted during and ‘Nepal National Biodiversity Strategy and Action the preparation of the conservation action plan. Moreover, Plan 2014-2020’ in 2014 (NBSAP, 2014) in compliance several faunal conservation action plans (e.g. rhino, with Article 6 of CBD. The NBSAP has identifi ed several vulture) were intensively reviewed to prepare the fi rst prioritized action plans for species level conservation, one fl oral action plan. Likewise, journals, articles and books on of which being the ‘development and implementation Bijaysal were referred and they form the basis for context of conservation plans for at least 20 additional priority setting. species as identifi ed by MoFE (GoN/MOFSC 2014, pp 87). Likewise, the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) aims to Primary data was collected through quantitative and prepare conservation plan for 30 species by 2030 (GoN/ qualitative questionnaires. Quantitative data was NPC 2015, pp 25). collected through participatory surveys (n=30) from Kanchanpur, Kapilvastu, Rupandehi, Nawalparasi, Palpa This fl oral action plan is the fi rst species level action and Arghakhanchi districts. The questionnaire focused on plan prepared by the Department of Forests (DoF), distribution and population of Bijaysal along with socio- in compliance with NBSAP and SDG to fulfi ll Nepal’s economic data. Qualitative questionnaires were probed obligations to biodiversity conservation. The NBSAP 2014- to analyze the diverse use and the status of the species 2020 and Terai Arc Landscape Strategy and Action Plan in the forest. Focus group discussions (n=3) were held 2015-2025 emphasized the importance of conservation of in Kanchanpur, Kailali and Barida districts with members Bijaysal and stressed on the immediate need for strategic of Community Forest User Groups, traders, and the interventions to ensure its recovery and long-term representatives of NGOs. The Focus Group Discussions survival. (FGDs) were helpful in locating the natural populations of Bijaysal within the respective districts.

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 1 The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) 1.3 Sturcture of the Action Plan Red List was referred to identify the global distribution and This action plan provides a strategic direction to conservation status of Bijaysal. Literature review helped the Bijaysal bearing states, districts, municipalities, to enhance understanding on ecology, population, and rural municipalities, and community forests for the distribution of the species in Nepal and across the globe. implementation of recommended measures for sustainable Likewise, several district level consultations were held at management of the species. It also contains background Kanchanpur, Kailali, Kapilvastu, Rupandehi, Nawalparasi, information on Bijaysal at the global and national Palpa, Arghakhachi, and Bardia districts with stakeholders level along with the major issues and challenges in its (DFO, CF personnel, and the staff members of National conservation. The concluding section ends with the goal, Park). Moreover, experts were consulted at various stages strategies, and priority actions for Bijaysal conservation in of the planning process. Then the draft was sent to the Nepal including the activity matrix and proposed budget. experts (MoFE, DoF, DFO, and WWF Nepal) in December 2017 for their input. The draft plan was eventually ﬁ nalized by incorporating the inputs.

2 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) Chapter 2: Background

2.1 Species Introduction second year in natural conditions. Growth is stimulated by weeding and soil loosening. Seedlings and saplings Bijaysal (Botanical name: Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb.; are tender and sensitive to frost and drought; latter English name: Malabar Kino; Family: Fabaceae) is a being more hazardous; thus, protection against sun is medium to large sized deciduous tree that grows up recommended. Saplings and poles cannot tolerate dense to 33m meters in height (Barstow, 2017). Pterocarpus overhead shade but tolerate lateral shade. refers to winged fruit (ptero-winged, carpus-fruit) and marsupium refers to pocket. Thus, Pterocarpus marsupium The tree is moderate light demanding and has limited is a tree with winged fruit that is distributed in specifi c/ distribution and does not exhibit thick stocking (Troup, pocket areas (Duthie, 1915). The tree bark is grey to dark 1921). It is found both on undulating and fl at ground brown with shallow cracks. A red gum resin (Kino) exude and grows on variety of soil formations (preferring sandy from the cuts and injuries in the bark. The wood is very loam), provided the drainage is good. Bijaysal prefers hard, close grained, heartwood yellowish brown (Troup, north aspect and are found either in the pure Sal forest, 1921; Yadav and Sardesai, 2002). Leaves are compound, or Sal mixed with other tree species like Karma (Adina imparipinnate (pinnate with a single leafl et at the apex), cordifolia), Sindure (Mallotus philippensis), Harro-Barro 15-25 cm, leafl ets 5-7, fi rmly coriaceous, sparingly clothed (Terminalia spp.), Khair (Acacia catechu) and other trees beneath with persistent appressed (pressed close to) characteristic of mixed deciduous forest (Troup, 1921). hairs, 4-12 x 2-7 cm wide, elliptic or ovate to lanceolate, nerves 15-20 pairs. Flowers are yellow, borne in large The species has multiple uses and values. The paste of much branched terminal panicles rachis, pedicels rusty seed and heartwood decoction is useful in diabetic anemia puberulous; pedicels 0.2 cm, with 2 small ovate caducous, (Trivedi, 2006). The bark is used for the treatment of bracteoles at the apex. Pod hard, orbicular, stipe 0.2-0.3 stomachache, cholera, dysentery, urinary complaints, cm long, style at some distance above the base periphery tongue disease and toothache (Tiwari et al. 2004). Wood of pod between stipe and style convex (Duthie, 1915). of the tree is useful in making the water glasses for diabetic patients (Reddy et al. 2008). Likewise, heartwood Flowering occurs during August to October and fruiting is astringent, bitter, acrid, cooling, anti-infl ammatory, during January to April in the sub-Himalayan tracts. depurative, haemostatic, revulsive, anthelmintic, Bijaysal often grows taller than the Sal (Shorea robusta) constipating and rejuvenating (Warrier, 1995). The gum that enable wide and distant dispersal of seeds, which resin (Kino gum) is used to regenerate insulin producing is further aided by light and winged seed. In a study in beta cells in pancreas (Mishra, 1993) and to treat stomach community forests of Kanchanpur, Pyakurel and Oli (2014) and abdominal related problems including acute gastritis found seedlings and saplings far from mature trees. (Tiwari et al., 2004). Heartwood and gum is useful in skin and blood diseases, rejuvenator, diarrhoea, dysentery and Bijaysal is an epigeal germinating plant (germinates above toothache (Mishra, 1993). Local residents of Kanchanpur ground) and seed prefers moist environment and light are using Kino gum for body and joint pain. shade (hard to survive in dense shade) during germination. Owing to the hardness of pod, less germinability and It provides food to birds and mammals. It is vulture’s poor viability, the seed germination percentage is lower vantage point (as observed in Suklaphanta) and is than 30% (Venkataramaiah et al., 1980; Kalimuthu and the climax partner of Shorea robusta (during climax Lakshaman, 1995). The seed thus needs loose weed free succession). Acharya et al. (2002) stated its growth soil with adequate shelter for germination. The growth has been improved by protection from grazing, fi re of seedling during the fi rst year is very slow: 2-6 inches and human interferences. The leaves are highly in natural conditions but may attain up to 3 feet in palatable for livestock, but it is posing threat to its nurseries with optimal care. The plant reaches 2-5 feet in

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 3 natural regeneration. Seedlings are practically absent in distribution in Nepal is reported from deciduous tropical heavily grazed areas (Troup, 1921). Its timber is used forests of seven districts of Terai such as Kanchanpur, to manufacture furniture, cart building (felloes, spokes Kailali, Bardia, Banke, Kapilvastu, Rupandehi and and bent rim), agricultural implements, grain measures, Nawalparasi districts (Figure 2) in Tarai and adjoining carving, pit-props and railway carriage construction parts of Palpa and Arghakhachi districts within the (Trotter, 1982). Its economic value in Nepal has escalated altitude of 100m to 500m (Pyakurel and Oli, 2014; in recent years due to the use of timber in handicraft ESON, 2018; personal communication with District Forest (cups, pots). Traditionally, its timber is used to make Ofﬁ cers (DFO) of the respective districts). Although agricultural tool (plough). there are reports of its availability in other districts (e.g, Makawanpur, Rautahat, Jhapa) also, its natural 2.2 Global and National Status and distribution in those districts remains obscure. Distribution Bijayasal has a limited global distribution. The species is The national population status of this species is unknown native to India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Taiwan. but there are few sporadic studies on their population Although this species has a wide native range (tropical status at local and district level. There are about 400 south Asia), the status of the population across the range mature trees in 12 community forests (CF) of Kanchanpur is not known (Figure 1). Natural stands of the tree are said (Pyakurel and Oli, 2014). Likewise, Buddhabhumi-10 to be ‘fast disappearing’ (Anis et al. 2005). of Kapilvastu district has more than 500 mature trees and there are 396 trees at the breeding seed orchard of In Nepal, Bijaysal is naturally distributed along the Department of Forests Research and Survey (DFRS) in foothills of Siwalik, from Kanchanpur to Nawalparasi. Butwal. In addition, the Tree Improvement and Silvicuture The population, however, is very scantly distributed due Unit (TISU) of the DoF had established a breeding seed to low germination and slow growth rate. Its natural orchard in Kanchanpur district.

Figure 1: Global distribution of Malabar Kino, Source: IUCN, 2017

4 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) © Dipesh Pyakurel

Figure 2: Natural distribution of Bijaysal in Nepal

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 5

Chapter 3: Issues, Threats, Challenges and Opportunities

The major issues, threats, challenges and opportunities in Bijaysal conservation are as follows:

3.1 Issues The following major issues have been identiﬁ ed. Low conservation priority at national and local levels, Inadequate funding for conservation and research, Inadequate awareness regarding its conservation status, Loss of habitats due to encroachment of forest and fringe areas for agricultural expansion and infrastructure development, Over-grazing and trampling by domestic animals, Frequent forest ﬁ re, and Poor knowledge about the ecology, propagation, demography and population dynamics of Bijaysal. © R.B. Paudyal, 2018

3.2 Threats and Challenges Figure 3: Lopped Bijaysal trees in Saraswati CF, Kapilvastu Habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation are the major threats to Bijaysal. Low germination, slow growth rate, localized distribution and overharvesting are the and construction of school buildings, hospitals, temples threats faced by this species. In view of these threats and other infrastructures within forested areas pose the Government of Nepal has banned the felling, serious threats to the forest, species and biodiversity in transportation and export of this species under the Forest general. The aim of the Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan Regulation 1995 (amended in 2001). The plant is listed as is to help and support in the conservation of the species by Near Threatened (NT) on IUCN Red List category based on addressing existing threats and to maintain and improve the threats present to the species, decreasing population natural stands. and declining areas of occurrence (Barstow, 2017). The vegetative propagation has not been very successful 3.3 Collaboration and Coordination either. Endowed with high intrinsic value, this species is Floral species in general have received low conservation under threat from over-harvesting at the local level. Thus, priority. Thus, it is crucial that there should be a greater derivatives of the Bijaysal is lucrative to illegal harvesters collaboration among government agencies, conservation resulting in unsustainable harvesting, posing threat to their partners and the private sector in this regard. Moreover, survival and sustainability (Nijman, 2010; Weckerle et al., additional efforts will be needed to tackle over-harvesting 2010). and trade in Bijaysal. And since that most of the present distribution range of Bijaysal occur outside the protected The leaves of this species are highly palatable to livestock areas, there is a need for an effective coordination and and thus the branches of the tree are widely lopped in collaborated effort among the staff members of the rural areas. Thus, fodder and litter collection, grazing state concerned, state forest ofﬁ ces, municipalities, rural and trampling together with uncontrolled forest ﬁ re will municipalities, community forest users’ groups, individual have an adverse impact on the species and its habitat. farmers and the private sector to tackle the issues Development of infrastructures, such as opening of roads pertaining to unsustainable harvesting and illegal trade at the local level.

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 7 3.4 Opportunities 3.5 Laws and Policy Frameworks Despite receiving inadequate priority in the past, the The following policy documents, laws, strategies and conservation of ﬂ oral species is gradually getting attention action plans were reviewed during the formulation of this at the national level. There have been conscious efforts for action plan: the conservation of key species such as champ, walnut and The Constitution of Nepal satisal along with Bijaysal in recent years. Initiatives such National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 2029 BS as the formulation of ﬂ oral species conservation action (1973) plan, community-based Bijaysal conservation initiatives, Forest Act (1993) documentation of species distribution and population, Environmental Protection Act (1995) together with the establishment of demonstration plots Nepal Environmental Policy and Action Plan (1993) and orchards have drawn considerable attention. The Forest Policy 2071 BS (2015) planning and implementation of set objectives with Forestry Sector Strategy (2016-2025) high priority at the local level in a well coordinated Nepal National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan manner can address the conservation issues relating to (2014-2020) this species. Strategic efforts are further substantiated Terai Arc Landscape Strategy and Action Plan (2015- by policy documents such as NBSAP and TAL strategies 2025) including other forest related policies. The multiple use Nature Conservation National Strategic Framework for and high economic value of this species also provides an Sustainable Development (2015-2030) opportunity to engage local government and foster public- Sustainable Development Goals (2016-2030) National private partnership in its conservation. Report Nepal Biodiversity Strategy, 2012

8 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) Chapter 4: Conservation Efforts and Major Achievements

A few conservation initiatives have been taken through the Identiﬁ cation and listing of areas with natural government, community forests and other conservation stands of Bijaysal partners both at the national and local level. Spatially counted individual mature Bijaysal trees in Sahid Smriti CF, Barkunda (Figure 5).

4.1 National Level Efforts Promoted artifi cial propagation in Sayapatri CF, The following national level initiatives are in relation to the Krishnapur-6 by establishing a breeding seed conservation and management of the Bijaysal. orchard. Grazing Management in CFs (Betkot CF, Baijanath The Government of Nepal (GoN) has declared and listed Bijaysal as a protected plant and has banned its CF). felling, transportation and export while it is allowed in Awareness raising through the mobilization of and from managed forests. Civil Society Organizations (CSO). Information sharing and dissemination through The DoF has initiated ex-situ conservation by establishing Bijaysal breeding seed orchard at articles, booklets, e-reports etc. Gulariya, Krishnapur-6, Kanchanpur district in 2005. DFO Kailali has initiated a few conservation measures in the CFs of Sabaili, Naumule (Khairala-1) and in Under the Tree Improvement Program, TISU (since 1998) has been working in this regard for the last Nirajan, Sinhasan and Bhartal collaborative forest 20 years. Likewise, the Silviculture Division of DoF in Urma. In addition, around 200 trees have been has initiated various conservation measures such as estimated in private farms in Malakheti. barbed wire fencing and posting of forest guards in In collaboration with Silviculture Division of the Saraswoti and Shanti CFs in Kapilvastu district. DoF, the DFO of Kapilbastu has launched Bijaysal conservation activities in 11.76 hectares of land in USAID funded Hariyo Ban Program has identifi ed Bijaysal as one of the focal plant species that requires Saraswoti and Shanti CFs as part of ‘Bijaysal in-situ special need for conservation initiative to ensure long- Conservation’ program with the assistance of USAID term survival of this species. Funded Hariyo Ban Program (Figure 4). DFO Nawalparasi has identifi ed a few blocks of The Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE) and the Hariyo Ban Program have agreed to prepare the Dumkibas Arunkhola forest and a community forests conservation and action plan for Bijaysal. as priority sites for the conservation of Bijaysal. DFO Rupandehi has recorded Bijaysal trees in Lumbini The Department of Forest Research and Survey (DFRS) has established a breeding seed orchard having 396 collaborative forest, Shankar Nagar (Trilottama-2) CF, mother trees in Jogikuti, Butwal. Pragati, Smriti and Butu (Devdaha 9, 7, 5 and 6) CFs and Sainamaina and Kanchan Municipalities. 4.2 District Level Efforts The Forest Silviculture Division has made an inventory and tagged Bijaysal in Kapilvastu for tree seed stand Following the declaration of Bijaysal as a protected and seed source protection. plant, conservation efforts have been initiated by various Effective in-situ conservation of the species in institutions in a number of districts. Some of the major northern parts of Suklaphanta National Park. initiations are as follows: Bijaysal seedlings are being raised by private In 2014, the DFO Kanchanpur initiated counting of nurseries in Bardia district. Bijaysal trees in collaboration with local Community The District Plant Resources Offi ce, Kailali has started Forest User Groups. Likewise, the Hariyo Ban Program raising Bijaysal seedlings in its nursery. is mobilizing the assistance through the Federation of Community Forestry Users, Nepal (FECOFUN). The aforementioned activities include:

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 9 Figure 4: Proposed Bijaysal conservation site in Kapilvastu

Figure 5: Tagged trees in Kanchanpur

10 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) Chapter 5: Conservation Action Plan

5.1 Goal Activities: The population status and distribution of Bijaysal will be Assess the availability of Bijaysal across its range in improved across its range, with existing threats from over- the foothills of Siwalik (Chure), exploitation and habitat destruction minimized. A focused study on population status and regeneration of Bijaysal in all potential areas including Kanchanpur, 5.2 Objectives, Strategies and Actions Kailali, Bardia, Banke, Kapilvastu, Rupandehi and The main objective of this plan is to maintain a healthy Nawalparasi districts population of Bijaysal, while promoting its in-situ and ex- Include and prioritize Bijaysal conservation situ conservation measures to ensure its sustainable use mechanism in the operation plans of FUGs, mainly 1 in Nepal. in high priority districts such as Kanchanpur and/or Kapilvastu, Strategy 1: Enhance understanding and Pilote initiatives such as germination enhancement knowledge on species and status, distribution, (rubbing the seed with sand and soaking them propagation, ecology and habitat of Bijaysal in water in the nursery) in the priority districts of Kanchanpur and/or Kapilvastu, Rationale: Undertake germination test and piloting in laboratories, and transplanting the seedlings in The information on Bijaysal in Nepal is limited. There priorities districts, is a lack of extensive research on Bijaysal on the part Analyse soil in Nepal Agriculture Research Council of government organizations, academia, FUGs and the (NARC), DFRS or other laboratories to identify the stakeholders that are working in this sector. There is a characteristics that suits Bijaysal. need for an integrated and collaborative approach to Tie up integrated species management (germination, bring research institutions, government organizations and rearing, use, biochemical analysis) with universities, conservation organizations to optimize available resources research institutions and government organizations to generate and management of scientiﬁ c knowledge to garner better knowledge management on the regarding this Near Threatened species. species, Untertake action research with a focus on habitat and Outputs: regeneration management of potential habitats and Adequate information on the population status, private farms by engaging local forest user groups distribution, ecology, and propagation of Bijaysal and farm holders, generated and updated Engage academic institutions and conservation Research ﬁ ndings incorporated in designing and orgainzations in long-term research and monitoring to implementation of Bijaysal conservation programs. generate adequate information on this species, Develop and publish awareness material on Bijaysal conservation in local dialect/language for local communities and eco-clubs,

1 ‘District’ mainly refers to District Forest Ofﬁ ce; however, it is not limited to DFO only. What it denotes presently might change with the adoption of the federal structure and, thus, it should be understood as the district level ofﬁ ce managing the forests.

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 11 Disseminate the outcomes of research studies Activities: through publications, workshops, seminars and Identifi cation, securing and designation of knowledge portals. potential habitats as high priority zones for Bijaysal Prepare, produce and disseminate monograph on management in all seven districts (Kanchanpur, Bijaysal, Kailali, Bardia, Banke, Kapilvastu, Rupandehi and Develop and disseminate of promotional materials Nawalparasi) such as posters, pamphlets, brochures, audio Development of in situ demo plot in each of the visuals etc describing the use(medicinal, economic), seven priority districts, threats (overexploitation, livestock grazing and Propagation of saplings from CFs with high fodder collection), and the importance of Bijaysal growing stock (e.g. Baijanath and Siddhababa CFs conservation (in situ and ex situ), and its cultivation of Kanchanpur and Saraswoti and Shanti CFs of and propagation, Kapilvastu) and transplanting them to other priority Organize mass awareness events to disseminate areas with lesser number of seedlings and saplings, message on Bijaysal conservation, and Enrichment plantation of seedlings in forests, private Conducting exposure visits to Bijaysal conserved areas and public lands, along with the conservation of to raise awareness. seedlings and saplings, while also enriching the plantations, Strategy 2: Increasing the viable population of Restriction on excessive harvesting of Kino Gum, Bijaysal by 15% at the national level through Promotion of stall-feeding in priority areas to regulate the management of priority sites open grazing, Declaration of priority sites as Bijaysal pocket area, Rationale: Prepare protection of forests with high seedlings or Low germination percentage and slow growth, cutting saplings in order to facilitate disturbance-free natural and felling of (Bijaysal) tree for medicinal and economic regeneration, purposes, coupled with livestock grazing and fodder Distribution of adequate fi refi ghting gears and the collection are the major causes leading to the decline of application of fi re control measures in priority sites, this species. The vegetative propagation of the species and is also challenging. Owing to the prevailing threats and Incorporation of forest fi re control measures in the poor (30%) germination success, in-situ and ex-situ operational plans of FUGs and the district forestry conservation measures is envisioned to increase the sector plan so as to implement them in Bijaysal Bijaysal trees by atleast 15%. Open livestock grazing is priorities areas. traditionally practiced in Nepal which is considered to be the second most destructive threat to the species Strategy 3: Strengthening of multi-stakeholder after logging and felling. Unregulated collection of participation for the conservation of Bijaysal fodder and human-induced forest fi res also pose threats to germination and Bijaysal saplings that are further Rationale: aggravated by extended dry spells. Thus conservation In general there is low level of understanding on the management practices will be mainstreamed through importance of fl oral species conservation. Inadequate community participation in pocket areas. A few CFs have awareness among stakeholders on the ecological a high density of the species owing to the ban on open importance of Bijaysal is one of the main reasons for grazing and illegal fodder collection. Such CFs should be its over-exploitation and habitat destruction. Further, provided incentives for their conservation efforts and conservation of any species requires adequate awareness encouraged to promote Bijaysal. This action plan aims to and information both at the grassroots and decision- manage about 1000 hectares of potential Bijaysal habitat making levels. Moreover, developing local stewardship in the seven districts having natural populations. could prove an important and effective strategy for Bijaysal conservation. Community based NRM groups Outputs: such as BZUCs, CFUGs, community forest guards, local Priority areas for Bijaysal conservation mapped youth clubs, eco-clubs and mothers’ groups can play a Key threats in the form of grazing, forest degradation, pivotal role in its conservation. Given the distribution of and forest fi re reduced Bijaysal in the private lands, conservation effort should Priority distribution areas secured also incorporate the private sector and homestead. In

12 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) view of the high value of the species, conservation efforts Collaboration with the private sector for value addition should emphasize in developing of local stewardship in the of Bijaysal, conservation of Bijaysal and their habitat. The conservation Management of dead/fallen/trees and the plots of efforts should also aim to diversify livelihood opportunites managed forests in relation to providing Bijaysal to targeting local communities dependent in forest resources. existing cottage industries, This will ultimately help to reduce over-exploitation of the Promotion of artiﬁ cial regeneration schemes in species. conjunction with the private sector, Impart training to local forest user groups and Outputs communities with regard to the implementation of strategic conservation action plans, Capacities of community based NRM groups, CBAPUs, youth groups/clubs, eco-clubs and mothers’ groups Lobbying with authorities at each tier of local enhanced, government, municipalities and rural municipalities to make them give adequate priority to and ensure Biodiversity conservation mainstreamed in the operational plans of community managed forests budgetary provision for Bijaysal conservation during the process of annual planning, Encouraging and Public awareness enhanced, engaging private nurseries to produce Bijaysal Local livelihoods improved through the conservation of Bijaysal, and seedlings in seven districts, Documentation and bio-registration of ethno-botanical Local stewardship in Bijaysal conservation developed and maintained for sustainable management of the knowledge on kino gum and wood, species. Capacity enhancement training in making wooden (Bijaysal) cups and pots so as to minimize waste, Activities: Encourage and support local farmers and community managed forests for Bijaysal plantation in seven Assessment of local knowledge, traditions, attitude Bijaysal occurring districts, and perceptions on Bijaysal conservation, Engage conservation organizations to support research Capacity enhancement of potential Natural Resource and monitoring, propagation, conservation and Management (NRM) groups, community based management of Bijaysal, and organizations, local social groups (e.g. mothers’ Engage state and local governments to provision groups, youth groups etc.), Community based Anti- adequate ﬁ nancial resources for the conservation of Poaching Units (CBAPUs), youth clubs and eco-clubs, this species. and the initiation of Bijaysal conservation initiatives,

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 13

Chapter 6: Implementation Arrangements

6.1 Institutional Arrangements 6.3 Sustainable Financing The action plan will be implemented by the Ministry Of the total estimated budget required to implement the of Forests and Environment through its departments action plan, a large proportion of which will be sourced in coordination with all level of government and from the government budget allocated for respective local communities. The Department of National Parks protected areas, the state concerned and district forest and Wildlife Conservation will be responsible for its offi ces. In addition to the government budget, the implementation in the protected areas and their buffer landscape-level conservation programs, presently being zones whereas the Department of Forests will be supported by conservation partner organizations such responsible for implementing related activities outside as National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), World the protected areas. Likewise, the Department of Plant Wildlife Fund Nepal (WWF), Zoological Society of London Resources will play the role of bringing value addition (ZSL), United States Agency for International Development to Bijaysal. Related conservation programs will also (USAID) and IUCN, are also expected to make significant be implemented through local municipalities and rural contribution to this program. Since that the species municipalities. Community managed forests will play is reported widely in community forests, a portion of critical roles in in situ conservation of this species. revenue generated by them through the sale of forest products and local tourism could also be ploughed back for 6.2 Financial Resources conservation of this species at the local level. In view of This section of action plan provides indicative fi nancial the responsibility of local government bodies towards local resources required for implementation of activities biodiversity conservation, funds from municipalities and specifi ed in the plan. The total budget estimated for the rural municipalities are also expected in this regard. duration of the program as specifi ed in the action plan to implement the proposed activities (Table 1) is NRs. 2,69,50,000 (USD 269,500). The output-wise detailed budget is shown in Annex 2.

Table 1: Proposed year-wise budget allocation (NRs. 000)

Actors Year I Year II Year III Year IV Year V Total % Strategy 1: Enhance the understanding of 600 2050 750 1400 1100 5900 22 and knowledge about the distribution, status, propagation, ecology and habitats of Bijaysal for its long-term conservation Strategy 2. Increasing the viable 3200 1900 3200 2100 3500 13900 52 population of Bijaysal by 15% at the national level through the management of priority sites Strategy 3: Strengthening of multi- 1150 2150 850 2250 750 7150 26 stakeholder participation for the conservation of Bijaysal TOTAL 4950 6100 4800 5750 5350 26950 Percentage per Year 18 23 18 21 20 100

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 15 6.4. Major Stakeholders program of the government of Nepal and the support of other conservation and local partners (IUCN, WWF, MoFE and the Department of Forests will be the major GIZ, NTNC, FECOFUN, USAID Care Nepal, Rastrapati government institution responsible for implementation Chure Terai Madhesh Samarakshan Bikash Samiti of the action plan in areas outside the PAs, while DNPWC etc). The conservation and local partners will support will be responsible for its implementation within the PA the Government to implement the activities in close system. Conservation partners such as NTNC, WWF Nepal, coordination with the DoF and the state offi ces concerned. ZSL, USAID, FECOFUN, academic institutions (universities The proposed activities will be jointly implemented by and colleges), community based organizations i.e. local governments, the forest offi ces, Protected Area forest user groups and other relevant organizations and offi ces and the forest user groups. The plan also envisages the private sector will be encouraged to support the a mid-term review, with possible changes in it. The DNPWC implementation of this action plan. will be responsible for the monitoring and evaluation of 6.5 Implementation, Monitoring, the proposed activities inside the protected areas and Evaluation and Review of the Plan buffer zones, whereas the DoF and state government will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating such The DoF will be responsible for the coordination and activities outside the protected areas i.e. community implementation of this action plan at the provincial/ forests and other forested areas. The MoFE or DoF will state level in close collaboration with the Ministry of review this action plan towards the end of project period Industry, Tourism, Forests and Environment and respective with the support of conservation partners. If deemed offi ces. Likewise, DoF will oversee it in conjunction with necessary, a mid-term review of the action plan will also DNPWC and the DPR at the federal level. It will also be conducted. The fi ndings of and the lessons learned from work with other agencies in this regard. The budgetary these periodic reviews will be used in the next action need will be managed through the regular support plan.

16 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) References

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18 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 2600 3300 Budget (estimated) in NPR ‘000 Total % 300 300 600 300 300 600 250 250 500 500 1500 500500 500 1500 Yr I Yr II Yr III Yr IV Yr V 600 2050 750 1400 1100 5900 22 ce, FUGs 100 100 100 300 fi organization/group DNPWC, DoF, FO 600 600 1200 FO, FUG, DFRS, DPR, Development partner 100 100 200 DoF, Forest Silviculture Division FO, Park of DoF/ Development partners DoF/ Development partners ve years (NRs. 000) fi 1. Resource assessment (population status, regeneration) of Bijaysal in all seven districts 3. Controlled germination test and piloting by DoF, DFRS, DPR or related laboratories, and, transplantation of the seedlings in two districts 2. Conduct germination enhancement activities in two CFs (Kanchanpur and/or Kapilvastu) as a pilot study 4. Soil analysis in NARC, DFRS or other laboratories to identify germination and habitat suitability of Bijaysal. 5. Incorporation of Bijaysal conservation mechanism in district and CF operational plans (mainly Kanchanpur and Kapilvastu) 6. Preparation of integrated species management activities in conjunction with universities, research institutions and the government to generate knowledge 7. Dissemination of the outcomes research studies through publications and the development of knowledge portals Activity matrix with budget and responsibility for c research fi Annex ndings incorporated Strategies and outputs Activities Responsible Strategy 1: Enhance the understanding of and knowledge about distribution, status, propagation and ecology of Bijaysal for its long-term conservation Updated information on the distribution, population status, ecology, and propagation of Bijaysal is obtained Scienti fi in the designing and implementation of Bijaysal conservation projects Annex 1:

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 19 9900 4000 Budget (estimated) in NPR ‘000 Total % 0 200 300 500 400 400 800 Yr I Yr II Yr III Yr IV Yr V 400 400 400 400 400 2000 700 700 700 2100 200 200 200 200 200 1000 3200 1900 3200 2100 3500 13900 52 ce, ce, FUG, LG 200 200 200 200 200 1000 ce, FUGs, LG 300 300 300 300 300 1500 fi fi fi organization/group CF, FO, LG 500 500 500 1500 Development partner FO, Park Of FO, FUGs, Development partner FO, Development partner 400 400FUG, FO, individuals 400 400 500FO, Park of 400 2000 500 500 1500 DoF/ Development partners FO, DoF, Development Partners FO, FUG, Development partners FUGs, Development partner ) to FUGs where demo plot in each of re management plan fi ghting gear/equipment to fi in situ refi

Badahar, Dudhilo conservation in Kapilvastu and cation of appropriate habitat for Bijaysal ﬁ

In situ Kanchanpur through management interventions 11. i Development of the seven districts 8. Identi management in all seven districts 14. Seedling transplantation in forest and private lands, along with conservation of seedlings and saplings, and enrichment plantation. 15. Regulating of open grazing and fodder collection (Bijaysal), either in the whole area used by FUGs or initially in the area which is to be managed habitat management program will be launched 13. Establishment of nursery and distribution fodder tree saplings including for forage farming (e.g., 12. Regulating unsustainable collection of Kino gum FO, Park of 9. Habitat and regeneration management action research at potential habitat and private farm level by engaging local forest user groups and private farm holders FUGs (7 sets) 16. Bio-fencing in parts of areas used by FUG where there are plenty of seedlings or saplings, thereby promoting natural regeneration. 10. and its incorporation in the operational plan of FUGs and the district forestry sector plan, its implementation in areas where Bijaysal is found. 18. Development of forest 17. Distribution of Strategies and outputs Activities Responsible Strategy 2: Increase viable population of Bijaysal by 15% at the national level through management of priority sites Priority areas for Bijaysal conservation are mapped and managed Key threats to Bijaysal conservation substantially reduced at local level

20 Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 2950 1200 3000 Budget (estimated) in NPR ‘000 Total % 100 100 200 1000 1000 2000 300 200 500 50 50 50 50 50 250 Yr I Yr II Yr III Yr IV Yr V 200 200 200 200 200 1000 100 100 100 100 100 500 300 200 500 4950 6100 4800 5750 5350 26950 organization/group DoF, DFRS, DPR, Development partner FO, DoF, Development Partners Partners FO, PSPrivate sector (PS), FOPS, programs, projects 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 500 500 200 FO, CBOsGoN, FO 100 100 100 100 100 500 0 FO, DoF, Development Partners FO, DoF, Development partner PS, DoI, Development partner DoF, DFRS, DPR, Development partner ), cultivation and

ex situ and

in situ propagation. 20. Stakeholder consultations for conservation of Bijaysal 19. Declaration of Bijaysal pocket areas FO, DoF, Development 30. Encouragement and nursery operation to produce Bijaysal seedlings in seven districts 31. Capacity enhancement training for the makers of wooden (Bijaysal) cups and pots to minimize waste 29. Ensuring the buy-back guarantee of seedlings by DFO and selling them to other FUGs individuals at a subsidized price (200,000 seedlings) 27. Awareness campaign through local FMs28. Regulating the supply of Bijaysal (dead/fallen/ managed trees) to existing cottage industries Local media 100 100 100 100 100 500 26. Launching of awareness campaign and activities in schools, communities and incorporating it non- formal education,. 21. Engagement of provincial/local government/ institutions in the management of Bijaysal 22. Capacity building through exposure visits to Bijaysal forest areas 23. Documentation and registration of ethnobotanical knowledge on Kino Gum and wood 24. Preparation and dissemination of Bijaysal monograph 25. Dissemination of promotional material, i.e. posters, pamphlets, brochures etc describing the use (medicinal, economic), threats (overexploitation, grazing, fodder collection), conservation ( Strategies and outputs Activities Responsible Strategy 3: Strengthen multi-stakeholder participation for conservation of BijaysalMulti-stakeholder engagement ensured. 26950 2150 850 2250 750 7150 27 Local livelihood improved through sustainable management of Bijaysal. TOTAL Year-wise percentage GRAND TOTAL 18 23 18 21 20 26950 Public awareness enhanced.

Bijaysal Conservation Action Plan, Nepal (2018-2022) 21