Introduction

Anual Report 1998/99

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Introduction

Nepal embarked upon modern era of wildlife conservation with the enactment of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act in 1973. The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation presently works with a network of 8 National Parks, 4 Wildlife Reserves, 3 Conservation Areas, 1 Hunting Reserve including 5 Buffer Zones around national parks, covering a total of 26,696 sq. km., or 18.14% of the country’s total land. It was established to conserve, restore and manage the rich and varied fauna, flora and the landscape of the mountainous kingdom of Nepal. An office had been set up in 1972 under the Department of Forests, His Majesty’s Government of Nepal, to initiate the task before it was formally upgraded as a Department in 1980.

Altitudinal variances in short distance give Nepal’s biogeography variety that range from lush moist forests and sparse alpine deserts to luxurious grasslands in lowland Terai. The Himalayan kingdom also shelters some of the world’s rare animals. Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) National Park and Royal Chitwan National Park with typical natural, cultural and landscape characteristics were listed as World Heritage Sites in 1979 and 1984, respectively. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, a wetland of international significance, was declared a Ramsar Site in 1987.

Conservation threats

Despite its biological richness and natural beauty, Nepal faces some of the most serious conservation threats besetting any nation in the world today. The United Nations has classified Nepal as one of the least developed countries in the world. Due to the country’s fragile geological structure—soil erosion and landslides are common phenomenon. In the early 1950s, pristine lowland forests were cleared for development and infrastructure development. The eradication of malaria in the 1960s witnessed massive influx of hill people in the Terai. Rapidly growing population with their subsistence socio-economic conditions exerted tremendous biotic pressure in the remaining forests. About 3,00,000 people live in the 37 Village Development Committees around Royal Chitwan National Park. Owing to habitat loss and human induced activities, the populations of tiger, rhinoceros and elephant have been gravely threatened.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Department are to conserve the country’s major representative ecosystems, unique natural and cultural heritage, and give protection to the valuable and endangered wildlife species. It also encourages scientific research for the preservation of wild genetic diversity.

Activities

The Department’s present priority stresses a participatory management in biodiversity conservation. The specific activities of the Department are:

· Conservation of endangered species.

· Scientific management of habitat for wildlife species.

· Creation of buffer zones in and around parks and reserves.

· Regulated eco-tourism to improve socio-economic condition of local communities.

· Increasing conservation awareness through conservation education programs.

Conservation of Endangered Wild Flora and Fauna

Nepal has 847 species of birds including 6 endangered pheasant species, about 640 species of butterflies, 6,500 species of flowering plants and 175 mammal species. The country shelters endangered wildlife species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris), Greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) Asian elephant ( Elephas maximus), Gaur (Bos gaurus), Swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli), Black buck (Antilope cervicapra) etc. Besides this, Nepal’s protected areas also harbour several valuable plant species and herbs.

The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act (1973), the Forest Act (1992) as well as the regulations under them protect the wild flora and fauna. In addition, the Aquatic Fauna Act (1961) and the Environment Protection Act (1996) and their regulations provide further protection to these flora and fauna. The constitution of the kingdom of Nepal (1990) specifically states about the protection of the wild flora and fauna in the country. Both the National Parks and Forest Acts empower the Chief Warden/Warden and DFOs to enforce these Acts and Regulations and take legal actions against offenders. Line agencies of the government, conservation partner organization and the local people complement the government’s conservation efforts.

Scientific management of habitat for wildlife species

There is a provision in the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act to restore, improve and conserve wildlife habitats such as grasslands, wetlands and waterholes including the maintenance of wildlife corridors. Likewise, applied and other research studies are conducted on grassland ecology, fire ecology, wildlife behaviour along with human impact on wildlife habitat. Other studies include captive breeding of Gharial crocodile (Gavialis gangeticus) and Marsh mugger (Crocodylus palustris) before releasing them in their natural habitat. The Department has also initiated captive breeding of elephant. Moreover, there is ex situ conservation of several species of wildlife in the zoo.

Wildlife species such as the Greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) has been translocated from Royal Chitwan National Park to Royal Bardia National Park to establish a new population. The ongoing tiger project is focussed on survey, monitoring and census of tiger population. For the scientific management of habitat and wildlife species, the Department has joined hands with several national and international organizations for the training and higher education of the staff working under it. The employees are also sent to participate in regional and international conferences, seminars and workshops for exposure and sharing of experiences.

The Department has also initiated trans-border cooperation with India for biodiversity conservation in the trans-border areas. In addition to the joint efforts in deterring poaching and illegal trade in endangered wildlife species and products made from their body parts, the
cooperation between the two countries include exchange program for training and research.

Establishment of Buffer Zones in and around Parks and Reserves

The Department has already established buffer zones around Royal Chitwan National Park, Royal Bardia National Park, Shey Phoksundo National Park, Langtang National Park and Makalu Barun National Park to minimize biotic pressure and for the sustainable management of natural resources. Works are underway to establish buffer zones in other national parks and wildlife reserves. The conciliatory and partnership approach adopted by the Department are aimed at motivating local communities in the participatory management of forest resources to fulfill their needs of forest products through the User Groups. The government has made provisions to plough back 50 percent of the revenues earned by the respective parks to community development activities. The long-term objective is to motivate local populace and win their support to gradually involve them in nature and wildlife conservation.

Regulated eco-tourism to improve socio-economic condition of local communities

Protected areas in Nepal are major travel destinations. During the fiscal year 1997/98, 1,39,286 tourists visited the protected areas situated in the different parts of the country and the revenue generated was Rs.7,92,47,543. The government has made legal provision of running hotels and lodges in and around protected areas to improve the socio-economic condition of local people. There is a provision of Environmental Impact Assessment before such hotels and lodges are allowed to operate. Local people are provided cooking and guide training. Community members benefit from their involvement in elephant safari, nature walk, and cultural and other recreational activities for the tourists.

Conservation awareness

In order to generate awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation in the local people, the national parks and wildlife reserves under the Department periodically organize public meetings. Such meetings as well as meetings of Buffer Zone Council and Buffer Zone User Committees were regularly convened to motivate local people for their participatory involvement in resource management during the fiscal year. Moreover, Wildlife Week, World Environment Day and World Heritage Day were celebrated to generate the importance of nature conservation in the local people. Students from the buffer zones and several schools in Kathmandu valley were actively involved on the occasions. The adult and non-formal education programs being conducted in some of the national parks aim at generating greater awareness for nature conservation.

The Department regularly publishes promotional materials such as brochures, posters, newsletters and bulletins. In addition, the print and electronic media are also used to disseminate news on conservation activities. The Department joins hands with a number of conservation organizations to organize awareness activities.

Concerted efforts for biodiversity conservation

The Department has joined hands with several national and international conservation organizations for the conservation of the country’s rich and varied biodiversity. Moreover, Nepal is a signatory to various international Conventions and Treaties including CITES, Convention on Biodiversity Conservation and the Ramsar Conservation. The Department is the Management Authority for both the Fauna Act and CITES. The achievments of ongoing projects implemented with the support of partner organisations and donor agencies are as follows.

Project activities

Makalu Barun National Park

The twelve-year agreement signed between The Department and The Mountain Institute (TMI) in August 1988 to implement the Makalu–Barun Conservation Area Project (MBCAP) expired in July 1999. The main objective of the project was the sustainable management of natural resources, community development and infrastructure development in the Makalu-Barun region. His Majesty’s Government designated the area encompassing ten Village Development Committees (VDCs) of Sankhuwasabha district and two VDCs of Solokhumbu districts as the Makalu–Barun National Park and Conservation Area in November 1991. Out of the total area of 2,330 sq.km., the National Park covers 1,500 sq.km. The Conservation Area spans over the remaining 830 sq. km., which the government declared as the Buffer Zone on February 8, 1999. The reason behind the government’s decision to establish the national park and the conservation area was to conserve the region’s highly threatened pristine forests and ecological zone of both national and global significance with the active involvement of the local people.The major thrust areas and the achievements of the project are:

Natural resource management

MBCAP formed 83 Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs) in all twelve VDCs of the area and prepared Workplan for the CFUGs. Likewise, several training were organized for nursery establishment, maintenance and management for the local people. The initiation of anti poaching drive and regular patrolling in the trans-border areas succeeded considerably in deterring poaching. Illegal wildlife products were seized on several occasions and legal actions taken against the offenders.

Preservation of sites of religious and cultural significance

One of the major thrust areas of the project was the preservation of sites of religious and cultural significance of the local inhabitants comprising Rais, Bhutia, Tamangs and other caste groups with theiry religious belief in Mundhum, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Several gombas, stupas and temples situated in religious sites in Chepua, Hatiya, Pathibhara and other places were renovated and repaired. Likewise, several shelters were built for pilgrims on the main routes to the famous religious sites.

Eco-tourism development

In order to promote eco-tourism in the region, MBCAP carried out activities such as setting up of kerosene depots, establishment of Tourist Information Center, Handicraft Center, formation of hotel and porter associations, and the Action Plan for tourism management for Makalu-Barun base camp-Salpa-Arun. The other activities are related to trail improvement, campsite development, construction of bridges and view tours, and training for hotel and lodge management.

Infrastructure development

For infrastructure development MCAP supported drinking water and irrigation projects in most of the VDCs, and helped build several wooden and suspension bridges. In addition, the project gave support to repair trails and renovate school buildings. It also provided scholarships for local students to pursue technical and general education.

The other achievements of the project are related to construction of building for the park office, publication and dissemination of promotional materials to create awareness, income generating actrivities, and several research studies on resource management including the effect on grazing in high altitude pastureland.

Parks and People Program

The UNDP funded Parks and People Program (PPP) has been implemented in all Terai parks as well as in Khaptad and Rara National Parks in the mountain area. The twin objectives of the project are biodiversity conservation and socio-economic upliftment of the communities living in the adjoining areas of the protected areas.

During the fiscal year project activities such as the mobilization of community based organizations for land management through community forestry, plantation and soil erosion control was continued. Likewise, the Saving and Credit Scheme, which is aimed at improving the economic conditions of the local people by providing loans for various income generating activities such as farming, livestock rearing, trade and local level business, was given continuance. The user groups meetings were held to discuss pressing issues and resolve local level disputes, identify problems and come up with possible solutions. The other work in this year are related to habitat management and improvement by mobilizing the communities living in the critical corridors used by several wildlife species during their seasonal and other movement. The project also supported to organize gender orientation workshop to promote women’s perspective in planning, implementation and evaluation process in buffer zone program activities.

Northern Mountains Conservation Project

Nepal’s northern mountain environment showcases the richness of the country’s nature. The advent of modernity has put strain on the ecology. In recent years, the conflict between the needs of the local inhabitants and conservation priorities has become more pronounced.

In 1996, the Northern Mountains Conservation Project (NMCP) was launched by the Department and WWF Nepal Program under the funding of USAID in Shey Phoksundo National Park (SPNP) and Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (DHR). The objectives of the project are to conserve biodiversity in SPNP and DHR, facilitate local management of natural resources and improve living conditions of local people while safeguarding the region’s unique natural heritage.

The major achievements of the project during the period are: formation of 14 buffer zone user committees, cultivation and monitoring of medicinal plants, successful completion of nine literary classes, initiation of saving and credit activities, installation of improved water –grinding mill, social and cultural mobilization through the formation of eco clubs, sanitation improvement, health care training, and training in beehive briquette production. In addition, a workshop and training on snow leopard monitoring was conducted.

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project

In April 1997, the then Minister for Forests and Soil Conservation Rameshwar Raya Yadav declared the Kanchenjunga region a Gift to the Earth in support of WWF’s Living Planet Campaign. The aim of the Campaign is to leave our Earth a better place to live in for the future generation. The conservation area (2035 sq. km.) was formally declared a protected area in July 1997. The Kanchenjunga
Conservation Area Project (KCAP) jointly launched by the Department and WWF Nepal Program aims to integrate conservation and development and improve the living conditions of the local people.

The project has obtained land for the construction of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) HQ at Lelep and Yamphudin Sector Office at Yamphudin. Other achievements include completion of KCA boundary survey, extension of its area from 1650 sq. km. to 2035 sq. km., construction of forest nursery at Lelep, repair and maintenance of trails, bridges, school, health post and gomba, formation of user groups, clean-up activities, literacy classes for local women and stipend for girl students.

Biodiversity Conservation Project

The Makalu Barun National Park and Buffer Zone component of the Biodiversity Conservation Project(NBAP) supported by UNDP/ Global Environmental Facility and subcontracted to The Mountain Institute has been operationally closed on 31 July 1999. As an outcome of the project, a more effective park management system and community based conservation practices have been in place in the park and its buffer zone. His Majesty’s Government has undertaken the responsibility for the management/ownership of the program through its field office and approved 63 positions, out of which 35 positions have been filled.

The other component of the project is the National Biodiversity Action Plan. The Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation is reviewing the draft of the Plan after holding consultations with all national stakeholders. NBAP will provide a long-term strategic vision and operational framework for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of biological resources in Nepal.

The National Capacity Enhancement (Institutional Support Component) subcontracted to the King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation was operationally closed in December 1998. About 500 persons comprising DNPWC staff and local community members participated in 30 community participatory trainings, wildlife management technique, community forestry, conservation education and hotel/lodge management (in protected areas) training.

Under the DNPWC component of the project, a Research and Training Center for Protected Areas has been established in Royal Bardia National Park to conduct research activities related to biodiversity conservation. Likewise, Park Management Strategic Framework workshops were organized in Langtang and Khaptad national parks during the fiscal year. The Department has set up a Biodiversity Information Center to build its capacity for biodiversity conservation in the protected areas.

Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve

Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve is located on the north side of Kathmandu valley. The area is the main source of water for domestic consumption in Kathmandu valley. The protection of the area as watershed began in 1985. In 1985, the area was designated as a wildlife reserve under Shivapuri Management and Fuelwood Plantation Project. Covering an area of 144 sq. km., the reserve has subtropical and temperate type of vegetation.

Deforestation, reclamation and livestock grazing are the major management constraints. The reserve is presently managed by a Board under Shivapuri Watershed Management and Fuelwood Plantation Project whose main functions include supply of drinking water for Kathmandu and the local people, gully control and landslide protection by afforestation program.

NORAD supported project

The Norwegian government (NORAD) supported project has been jointly launched by KMTNC and the Royal Bardia National Park for the protection of biodiversity and to enhance research activities in the park. During the fiscal year, the focus of the ecological study in the park was on wildlife species such as the Bengal tiger, common
leopard, wild Asian elephant and the barking deer. The other research activities were related to the main prey species of the Bengal tiger such as the blue bull, spotted deer, swamp deer and wild boar, their status and distribution, and the predator-prey relationship.

Buffer Zone Management Development Guidelines

Buffer zones are being established by the Department in and around protected areas to involve local populace in the participatory management of natural resources in a sustainable way through community based organizations. The draft of the Buffer Zone Management Development Guidelines is in the final stage. Based on the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act and the Buffer Zone Regulations, the Guidelines are expected to facilitate effective
management of the buffer zones.

Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve Extension Area Program

The Royal Suklapanta Wildlife Reserve (150 sq. km.) was established in 1976. In order to provide additional habitat for various wildlife species, a program to extend another 105 sq. km. in the north- east of the reserve, was initiated in 1981. However, due to the inability on the part of different Resettlement Committees formed in different times to provide land in compensation for those who lost their land and was promised new land elsewhere when the program was implemented, the problem still persists. Encroachment by illegal immigrants in the allocated land for the relocated people has further complicated the matter. Despite the complicated situation arising out of encroachment, efforts are underway to resolve the problem.

Royal Nepal Army in biodiversity conservation

Battalions and Companies of Royal Nepal Army have been stationed inside different protected areas as Protection Units. A Directorate has been set up in the Army headquarters to monitor the protection units in different parks and reserves. The major function of the protection units is to protect wildlife and forest products. The presence of the units of armed forces in the national parks and wildlife reserves serve as good psychological deterrent to poachers and illegal dealers in endangered and other wildlife products. The Anti Poaching Units formed in the lowland Terai parks are not armed to deal with armed poachers on their own. However, joint patrolling of the park staff and the armed personnel of the protection units has proved very effective. In addition to regular patrolling to curb illegal activities, the protection unit members provided full cooperation during the fiscal year in treating and transferring large, wounded terrestrial animals, and also in rounding and bringing strayed wildlife back to the Park forest. The Royal Nepal Army has been providing protection works in the protected areas since 1976.

Anti Poaching Units

In order to combat poaching of endangered wildlife species and the illegal trade in their body parts, the Department has joined hands with WWF Nepal Program and the International Trust for Nature Conservation (ITNC). WWF Nepal Program has provided incentives and field gear to form Anti Poaching Units (APUs) in Royal Bardia National Park, Royal Chitwan National Park, Parsa Wildlife Reserve and Royal Sukla phanta Wildlife Reserve. The APUs consist of Park Rangers, Senior Game Scouts, Game Scouts, and local informants. Two APUs also operate outside Royal Chitwan National Park under the District Forest Offices of Makwanpur and Nawalparasi districts. The APUs are backed by an informants network system about illegal activities. ITNC provides funding, which is used as a reward for information leading to the capture of poachers and illegal dealers in endangered wildlife species and their body parts.

The formation of APUs, the reward system for informants, and the support of Protection Units of the Royal Nepal Army have considerably deterred poaching in the lowland Terai parks and reserves. Several actions were taken against the offenders during the fiscal year

(Appendix IV). Poaching of wildlife outside the parks and reserves still pose challenge to park managers and conservationists.

Bardia Integrated Conservation Project (BICP)

The five–year (1995-2000) project has been jointly implemented by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and WWF Nepal Program with the support of other partner organizations. The aim of the project is to conserve wild plants and animals in the park and reduce poverty in the buffer zone communities. A Tourism Plan for the park has been prepared with the support of the project. The other activities of the project include the preparation of work-plan for the user communities, infrastructure development, preventive
measures for crop damage by wildlife, conservation education for local people, promotion of alternate means of income and
PPencouragement for women’s participation in conservation and development. Strengthening of anti-poaching activities was another major thrust during the fiscal year.

Institutional Support

The institutional support of WWF Nepal Program for the Department for the fiscal year focused on the promotion of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) implementation in the country and the strengthening of field level cooperation between the park managers of Nepal’s Terai protected areas with their counterparts in the adjacent parks of India to address the problems related to poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and forest products.

The Department organized a meeting on CITES. The meeting discussed on the possibility of forming a high level committee for the effective implementation of CITES by involving the other line agencies of the government such as the Police, Customs and the Postal service. The draft of a CITES Manual has also been prepared and is in the final stage. Strengthening of national legislation is necessary for the effective implementation of CITES. There have been a number of meetings between the park wardens of Nepal and India to promote the exchange of information and to work in conjunction to deal with poaching and other illegal activities in the trans-border areas of the two countries. Park wardens from Nepal visited the adjoining wildlife reserves in India and held discussions to promote cooperation for the flow of information on illegal activities and for joint operation to deal with the existing problems.

Buffer Zone Development Project/Care Nepal

The Buffer Zone Development Project is a Care Nepal supported project. The focus of this project is community development activities such as drinking water, irrigation and other infrastructure
development in the buffer zone lying in the eastern part of Royal Bardia National Park. The other thrust areas are non-formal education and literacy programs for local communities.

King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation

The King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation (KMTNC) is a leading non-profit, non-governmental environmental organization in Nepal. The Trust is active in research as well as in program implementation in the area of environmental conservation and natural resource management. Since its inception the KMTNC has undertaken over 80 projects ranging from small to large in natural resource conservation and sustainable development. In the fiscal year it has undertaken two additional projects—Domestic and Wildlife Veterinary Services Programs and Bardia Research Project. The focus of the Trust in the lowland Terai is on research, training and community development. The Bardia Conservation Project has been focussing its efforts on wildlife research, plantation, school support, healthcare, women development and skill enhancing training. The Trust’s Central Zoo project in Kathmandu valley aims to develop it as a center for wildlife research and conservation education.

During the fiscal year, the Trust planted saplings over 1,000 ha. of land, completed one micro-hydro project, repaired about 20 trails and supported 15 health posts. Similarly the Trust organized adult literacy program for more than 1,000 local people, mostly women and trained 128 staff of this Department and other agencies working in the field of nature conservation. About 2,200 local inhabitants from the Trust’s project areas participated in workshops, trainings and study tour. Likewise, 1,000 locals and students participated in different conservation activities such as mobile and conservation camps, and clean-up campaigns.

Annapurna Conservation Area Project

The Annapurna Conservation (ACA), spread over 7,629 sq. km. of Kaski, Myagdi, Parbat and Manang districts in northwest Nepal, was established in 1986. Annapurna Conservation Area is a major trekking destination in Nepal. More than 40,000 tourists annually visit the conservation area. The King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation (KMTNC), launched the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) in 1986. ACAP’s grassroots philosophy involves local people in all aspects on conservation and development.

ACAP’s programs and activities are formulated and implemented through Conservation Area Management Committees (CAMCs). ACAP encourages the communities to incorporate the indigenous knowledge and practices into conservation and development strategies and policies. The CAMCs formed at the Village Development Committee level look after the conservation and development activities within its boundary. During the fiscal year the thrust of the project activities were in the mobilization of local communities through reform in Conservation Area Management Regulation 1996, preparation of a 5-year operational plan for the Annapurna Conservation Area for its natural resource conservation, production and distribution of seedlings, plantations, river training work in 10 sites for soil and water conservation and wildlife
conservation. Likewise, the other activities were related to alternative energy, tourism management, infrastructure development, women development, conservation education, and agriculture and livestock development.

Manasalu Conservtion Area

The Manaslu Conservation Area (MCA) was designated as conservation area on 28 December 1998. The conservation area (1,663 sq. km.) lies in the northern sector of Gorkha district adjoining the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. The major livelihoods of the people of the area are agriculture, livestock rearing and seasonal trading. Lack of adequate infrastructure and illiteracy make the poverty-ridden local people highly dependent on natural resources. This has led to loss of biodiversity and soil erosion.

His Majesty’s Government has handed over the management responsibilities of MCA to KMTNC for the next ten years. The Trust will replicate ACAP’s integrated conservation and development in the newly established conservation area and has already started its field programs through the Manaslu Eco-tourism Development Project. One of the objectives of the project is to improve the capacity of Manaslu area to support tourism in an environmentally sensitive manner. Various implemented field programs in the area motivate and mobilize local people to take lead in managing the natural resources of the area in a sustainable way. The focus of the project works lies on the improvement of trails and bridges to enhance tourism, alternate energy programs, health programs for women, drinking water scheme, setting up of a monastic school for the conservation of cultural heritage, and research on biodiversity and socio- economic conditions of the region.

Parks and People Program

Northern Mountains Conservation Project

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project

In April 1997, the then Minister for Forests and Soil Conservation Rameshwar Raya Yadav declared the Kanchenjunga region a Gift to the Earth in support of WWF’s Living Planet Campaign. The aim of the Campaign is to leave our Earth a better place to live in for the future generation. The conservation area (2035 sq. km.) was formally declared a protected area in July 1997. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) jointly launched by the Department and WWF Nepal Program aims to integrate conservation and development and improve the living conditions of the local people.

Biodiversity Conservation Project

The Makalu Barun National Park and Buffer Zone component of the Biodiversity Conservation Project(NBAP) supported by UNDP/ Global Environmental Facility and subcontracted to The Mountain Institute has been operationally closed on 31 July 1999. As an outcome of the project, a more effective park management system and community based conservation practices have been in place in the park and its buffer zone. His Majesty’s Government has undertaken the
responsibility for the management/ownership of the program through its field office and approved 63 positions, out of which 35 positions have been filled.

Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve

NORAD supported project

Buffer Zone Management Development Guidelines

Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve Extension Area Program

Royal Nepal Army in biodiversity conservation

Anti Poaching Units

(Appendix IV). Poaching of wildlife outside the parks and reserves still pose challenge to park managers and conservationists.

Research on Small Mammals Biodiversity and Grassland Management in RBNP

Tika Ram Adhikari, a research scholar at University of Angelia, UK, carried out a research on small mammal biodiversity and grassland management in Royal Bardia National Park (RBNP). The researcher used Sherman Live Traps with baits to capture and recapture small mammals in the grassland of the park. During the course of his studies he caught Rattus rettus, Mus plathrix, Golunda ellioti and Crocidura species in sufficient number to warrant statistical analysis. He still has to catch other species such as Mus cervicolour, Mus muschulus, Bandicota indica, Bandicota bengalensis, Melardia meltada and Sancus murinus in sufficient number for statistical analysis and in determining potential habitat variables that indicate distribution and abundance in a particular area.

The researcher, in his preliminary report, states that only seasonably replicated trapping data for a whole year will enable him to draw conclusion as the availability of mammals trapped is affected by interrelated factors such as weather, season, habitat, availability of food, baits, population structure, behavior as well as the habitat structure in different seasons of the year. He is planning to study the impact of burning and grass cutting on small mammals in the
burning and grass cutting season (November and December), a time when these mammals could be caught in greater number.

Parks and People Program

Northern Mountains Conservation Project

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project

In April 1997, the then Minister for Forests and Soil Conservation Rameshwar Raya Yadav declared the Kanchenjunga region a Gift to the Earth in support of WWF’s Living Planet Campaign. The aim of the Campaign is to leave our Earth a better place to live in for the future generation. The conservation area (2035 sq. km.) was formally declared a protected area in July 1997. The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) jointly launched by the Department and WWF Nepal Program aims to integrate conservation and development and improve the living conditions of the local people.

Biodiversity Conservation Project

Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve

NORAD supported project

The Norwegian government (NORAD) supported project has been jointly launched by KMTNC and the Royal Bardia National Park for the protection of biodiversity and to enhance research activities in the park. During the fiscal year, the focus of the ecological study in the park was on wildlife species such as the Bengal tiger, common leopard, wild Asian elephant and the barking deer. The other research activities were related to the main prey species of the Bengal tiger such as the blue bull, spotted deer, swamp deer and wild boar, their status and distribution, and the predator-prey relationship.

Buffer Zone Management Development Guidelines

Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve Extension Area Program

Royal Nepal Army in biodiversity conservation

Anti Poaching Units

(Appendix IV). Poaching of wildlife outside the parks and reserves still pose challenge to park managers and conservationists.

Conservation Education

Public meetings

Various public meetings were organized in the different national parks and wildlife reserves during the fiscal year. Such public meetings are held every year to generate conservation awareness and promote the participatory involvement of local populace in the sustainable management of natural resources in the buffer zone. In addition to the local people, such meetings were actively participated in by people’s representatives, representatives of line agencies of the government, non-governmental organizations and others. The meetings extensively discussed local issues relating to fodder and firewood collection, livestock grazing, grass cutting, tourism and illegal activities.

School programs

Various promotional activities were organized for the school children of Primary, Secondary and High schools situated on the fringes of the protected areas on the occasions of Wildlife Week and World Environment Day. The school program in this fiscal year included—essay competition, art competition, elocution, showing of video films on wildlife, and environmental parade of school children. The winners in the competition were given prizes and certificates. These activities are aimed at creating awareness of the importance of nature and wildlife conservation in students as well as the general public. In addition, various displays were organized highlighting conservation efforts in the country and abroad. Promotional materials such as brochures, pamphlets and posters were also distributed on such occasions.

World Environment Day

The Department celebrated the World Environment Day (June 5, 1999) by organizing various activities aimed at generating awareness of the importance of environmental protection. Over a hundred students from schools in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur participated in the functions organized by the Department. The slogan for the Day was " Let’s save our Earth for our common future."

The three-day (4-6, June) celebration also included display at the exhibition organized by the Ministry of Population and Environment at the Tourism Development Centre, in Kathmandu. The photographs and promotional materials displayed by the Department on the occasion reflected conservation activities in and around protected areas in the country.

The participating students also visited the Deer Research Centre at Godavari and observed the measures taken by the Centre for the ex situ conservation of deer species, particularly the musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster).

Five dedicated conservationists, one user group and a local school were honoured with the Abraham Conservation Award 1999 for their outstanding contribution in the field of nature and wildlife conservation. Rt. Honourable Prime Minister Mr. Krishna Prasad Bhattarai conferred the Award on the dedicated individuals and institutions amid a function organized on the occasion of the World Environment Day in Kathmandu.

Likewise, Director General of the Department, Dr. Tirtha Man Maskey, gave away prizes to winners in the quiz and elocution contest amid a function on the concluding day.

Wildlife Week

The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and various national parks, wildlife reserves and protected areas situated in the different parts of the country celebrated the Wildlife Week 1999 in the first week of Nepali New Year (Baisakh 1-7, 2056) by organizing week-long activities aimed at creating awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation.

The Department joined hands with the King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation/ the Central Zoo, the Parks and People Project UNDP/GEF, IUCN, WWF Nepal Program, the Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN) and Narayani Safari Hotel to celebrate the Week and displayed various awareness and promotional materials including children’s paintings highlighting the efforts of conservation organizations working in Nepal and abroad. The activities were organized in the premises of the Central Zoo, Jawalakhel. The other week-long
activities in Kathmandu included bird count at Godavari - Phulchoki, publication of posters, children’s elocution competition, awareness procession, cultural shows by students and audiovisual shows on wildlife. The field offices spread across the country also celebrated the Week with various activities aimed at generating awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation in the local people. The activities were covered by both the print and electronic media.

On the concluding day of the Wildlife Week, Secretary of the Ministry of the Forests and Soil Conservation, Mr. Rabi Bahadur Bista, gave away prizes to the winners in the various competitions and
distributed letters of appreciation to participating schools and
organizations. The Director General of the Department, Dr. Tirtha Man Maskey, highlighted on the importance of celebrating Wildlife Week.

HRH Crown Prince’s Visit to Sagarmatha National Park

HRH Crown Prince Dipendra Bir Bikram Shah made an unofficial visit to Sagarmatha (Mt. Everest) National Park on 28 September 1998. The Crown Prince was accompanied by HRH Nirajan Bikram Shah. Likewise, the Italian Minister for Science and Technology Pro Giuseppe Tognon and his wife paid a visit of EV-K2 CNR Pyramid in Sagrmatha National Park on 11 October 1998.

Status of Tourists Visiting Protected Areas

Nepal’s protected areas are major tourist destinations. The number of tourists visiting the protected areas is increasing by the year. In addition to the number of tourists who visited different national parks/wildlife reserves/conservation areas during this fiscal year, a comparative number of tourists in the last five years is also shown in the following table.

S.no Parks/ Foreigners Indians Nepali Total

Reserves

1 RCNP 55,518 21,748 28,614 1,05,880

2 RBNP 2,853 0 3,011 5,864

3 LNP-/ 10,889 0 0 10,889

4 RNP 144 4 0 148

5 KNP 13 0 0 13

6 RSWR 159 59 478 696

7 PWR 2 0 332 334

8 KWR 466 1,584 0 2,050

9 SPNP 489 0 0 489

10 DHR 112 0 0 112

11 KCA 881 0 0 881

12 SNP 21,372

RCNP: Royal Chitwan National Park,
RBNP: Royal Bardia National Park,
LNP: Langtang National Park,
RNP: Rara National Park,
KNP: Khaptad National Park,
RSWR: Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, PWR: Parsa Wildlife Reserve,
KWR: Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve,
SPNP: Shey Phoksundo National Park,
DHR: Dhorpatan National Park,
KCA: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area,
SNP: Sagarmatha National Park

Tourists in Protected Areas

The following chart shows the number of tourists visiting the protected areas in the last five years.

Revenue Generation

Different national parks, wildlife reserves, conservation areas and the Department generated a total of Rs. 8,95,99,892.95 as revenue during the fiscal year 1998/99. The revenue was earned from different sources such as filming license in the protected areas, license to export materials made from the bones of domestic animals, entrance fees, royalty from hotels in and around protected areas, elephant ride, fines, hunting license, and other sources. A comparative study on the generation of revenue in last five years has also been made.

S.N. Name of Office 1994/95 1995/96 1996/97 1997/98 1998/99

1 Dept. of National Parks and
Wildlife Consservation 18084210.00 17401527.84 18981945.00 20152637.93 20385715.00

2 Royal Chitwan National Park 41527367.36 46316680.91 48290672.15 48150192.71 54543777.79

3 Royal Bardia National Park 1320650.50 1683630.08 2716777.68 2669277.84 4226068.04

4 Sagarmatha National Park 822373.50 2029355.90 403941.65 2492414.10 4086506.65

5 Langtang National Park 694630.14 1669969.76 669056.61 2641111.59 3498779.33

6 Rara National Park 17453.00 53497.00 195529.14 22115.00 62495.00

7 Khaptad National Park 63278.80 38091.80 3202.00 48350.34 66960.00

8 Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve 1586523.85 6619097.24 234316.50 1730991.70 952578.27

9 Parsa Wildlife Reserve 157045.00 155153.95 175258.00 175258.00 298989.00

10 Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve 477720.50 436252.00 537338.00 741910.20 1153523.00

11 Shey-Phoksundo National Park 44526.00 77982.00 69465.00 96455.00 126994.00

12 Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve 57785.00 50735.00 118379.35 326833.56 197506.87

Total 64853563.65 76531973.48 72395881.08 79247547.97 89599892.95

Revenue Generation in Last Five Years

The comparative revenue generated by the Department and different protected areas under it in the last five years is given in the table.

Fifteenth Warden Conference

The Fifteenth Warden Conference was held at Aadhabar, Parsa Wildlife Reserve on February 7-11, 1999. The conference with the theme "Management Strategy for Protected Areas" was participated in by the Secretary and other high ranking officials of the Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation, representatives of different Departments under the Ministry, CDOs of Bara and Parsa districts, Chief Wardens and Wardens, representatives of partner organizations and the representatives of the proposed buffer zone of Parsa Wildlife Reserve.

The participants held extensive discussions on conservation-related issues and the inherent problems associated with protected area to device a management strategy for protected areas. The meeting also discussed the processes and institutional arrangements in declaring and managing buffer zone(s) in and around protected areas. The focus of the conference was on preparing management plans for all protected areas, carrying out research studies in protected areas on the basis of prioritized needs of concerned protected areas, forming anti-poaching units (APUs) in mountain parks, and adding more APUs in the Terai parks and reserves. The other resolutions were related to strengthening trans-boundary cooperation for effective management of protected areas, making appropriate amendments in rules and regulations governing protected areas with minimal income to support community development, and to carry out a feasibility study to extend Parsa Wildlife in the north-east to restore and conserve the Halkhoria Daha (wetland) in Bara district. The Halkhoria Daha has the potential to develop it as a breeding ground for wild elephant.

Training, Seminar and Higher Education

The following staff members of the Department and the offices under it underwent different training programs while others participated in various national and international conferences, seminars and workshops during the fiscal year.

S.N Name Position Training/seminar/ Country Duration

Higher Education

1. Dr.T.M.Maskey D. G. Seminar USA 22-29 Feb,1999

Costa Rica 10-18 May1998

Seminar India 23-29 Oct 1998

2. N.Poudel Ecologist Seminar Costa Rica 10-18 May1998

Workshop India 1-2 March1999

3. S. Bajimaya Management Officer Meeting Malaysia 27 Sep-5 Oct 1998

Study Tour Pakistan 17-27 Nov 1998

4. P.B.Shrestha Plng. Offficer Workshop Phillipines 22-24 Feb 1999

5. Gopal Upadyay Con Ed Officer Workshop Phillipines 22-24 Feb 1999

6. Megh B Pandey Con. Officer Study tour Pakistan 14-27 Nov, 99

7. Laxmi Yadav Computer Engineer Training Germany 15-2, April, 99

8. Laxmi Manandhar Chief Conservation Officer Meeting India 24 Aug- 23 Sept 1998

Workshop Japan 27 Feb-2 March 1999

India 1-2 March 1999

9. Ram Preet Yadav Chief Conservation Officer Study tour Pakistan 14-27 November 1998

Meeting India 1-2, March 99

10. Nima W. Sherpa Chief Conservation Officer Meeting UK 29 March-4 April 99

Study tour Italy 23 Jan-2 March 99

Pakistan 14-27 November 98

11. Shiva R. Bhatta Conservation Officer Meeting India 25 Feb-2 March 99

Seminar India 1-2 march 1999

12. Surya B. Pandey Conservation Officer Meeting India 27 Feb-March 2, 99

Study tour Pakistan 14-27 November, 99

13. Nilamber Mishra Conservation Officer Study tour Pakistan 18-24, Oct 1998

14. Tulsi Ram Sharma Conservation Officer Study tour US 14 August-4 March 99

Higher Study ( M. Sc.) 2 years from 12 August 99 15. Ram C. Kandel Conservation Officer Study tour UK 5-17 Sept, 1998

16. Yuvraj Regmi Asst. Con. Officer Higher Study ( M. Sc.) Two Year from 6

August 99

Likewise, the following non-gazetted staff members were granted study leave for higher studies.

S.N. Name Post Degree Country Duration

1. Babu R. Bhattarai Ranger B.Sc 3 years from

18 Sept 1998

2. Bhogendra Raimajhi Ranger B.Sc 2 years from

12 Sept 1998

3. Shyam K. Shrestha Ranger B.Sc Pakistan 4 years from

19 Sep 1998

4. Naresh Subedi Ranger B.Sc Norway 2 years form

10 Oct 1998

Miscellaneous

Translocation of Rhinoceros

Two adopted rhinoceros (Shivaram and Kumar) were successfully translocated from Royal Chitwan National Park (RCNP) to Royal Bardia National Park (RBNP). Shivaram was orphaned in RCNP five years ago. Kumar, four years old, was separated from his mother in the same park. Both baby rhinoceros were reared in the park. The Department decided to translocate the rhinoceros as they began foraging in the adjoining crop fields. The rhinoceros were released in the Chepang area of RBNP. Likewise, two strayed rhinoceros from Chitwan were also translocated from the forest of Sarlahi district to RBNP. Over the years, 42 rhinoceros have been translocated to RBNP from RCNP.

Status Report on Wild Elephant

The Department initiated research in 1996 to find out the status of wild elephant populations in Nepal. Ms. Petra Ten Velde Thagunna, an independent researcher, carried out the research from October 1996 to December 1998 with the support of WWF-International. The study findings have been assessed and revealed a total of 100 wild elephants to be occurring in the Eastern, Central, Western and far-Western Terai regions of Nepal.

The researcher terms the eastern population "doomed" with regard to the degraded and fragmented forest ecosystem the elephants are confined to. The central population of elephants is residential, and occurs in the Parsa-Chitwan forests, with occasional dispersal to the Bara-Rauthat districts. The elephants of the far-Western and Western Terai regions belong to the Bardia-Kailali-Kanchenpur regions, of which a few of these belong to the dispersing population of elephants occurring in the Mahakali trans-boundary area of the Indo-Nepal border. The elephants of this region can be termed as belonging to a more viable population, with regard to habitat availability in the region. Both the Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve and the Royal Bardia National Park provide suitable habitats for wild elephants. Moreover, the forest of the Churia foothills occurs as a continuous forest tract, and naturally links these two protected areas.

The report states that with proper conservation means, this region can be a prime area for elephant conservation in Nepal, if efforts are made to foster the Churia Foothill forest. The researcher also recommends the establishment of an "elephant corridor," which would see the linking of the Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve to the Royal Bardia National Park, across the Churia Foothill forest. This would provide elephants with extensive habitats through which to disperse, and would also see the ultimate improvement of Nepal’s wild elephant population status. The report says that it would not only enhance the long-term survival of these elephants, but also create a conservation opportunity vital to safeguarding the integrity of the far-Western/Western Terai eco-regions.

Region Districts No.of R/D

Elephant

Eastern Jhapa-Sunsari- 10-15 (D) West Bengal-

Saptari Mechi

Central Parsa-Chitwan- 25 R

Bara

Western Bardia 50 R

Far-Western Kanchanpur-Kailali 15 (R-D) Haldwani-

Mahakali-

Suklaphanta

Total Population 100-105

R= if elephants are resident

D= if elephants are dispersing, and from where

International Symposium on Tiger

An international Symposium on tiger conservation was jointly
organized by DNPWC, King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation, WWF Nepal Program and Visit Nepal Year ’99 Secretariat on December 12-15, 1998 at Sauraha, Chitwan-Nepal. The workshop participated in by wildlife managers, tiger specialists, policy makers, scientists and environmentalists from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, WWF-International, WWF-UK, WWF network offices in the region and the donor agencies. The participants interacted extensively agreeing to recognize, preserve, restore and increase the effective land base that supports tiger and passed the Chitwan Declaration (appendix V).

Tiger Action Plan

A Tiger Action Plan for the Kingdom of Nepal has been prepared with the support of conservation organizations and tiger experts in the country and abroad. The goal of this Plan is to preserve, recognize, restore, and increase the effective land base that supports tigers (Panthera tigris) in Nepal. His Majesty’s Government of Nepal (HMG) will expand conservation efforts beyond existing protected areas, and recognize the entire Terai and Siwalik forest areas as tiger habitat. A broad scale land use approach to conservation is critical, not only for tigers, but also for the restoration and maintenance of intact ecosystems, upon which biodiversity depends, and which determine the quality of human life. The premise of this action plan is that ecosystem management, with an emphasis on building partnerships with local people, is crucial for maintaining tiger habitats outside protected areas because:

· the existing protected areas, by themselves, are not large enough to maintain viable tiger populations

· there are extensive forest lands outside reserves where tigers currently occur

· forests outside reserves are often degraded and need ecological restoration

· the key to restoring habitat outside reserves is the inclusion of local people as stakeholders, who will directly benefit through conservation actions, and will contribute to management decisions.

In Nepal and across most of the tiger’s range, national parks by themselves are not large enough to support viable tiger populations, and wild areas outside the parks are often not adequately managed for wildlife conservation. For this reason experts say it is important to shift management from protected areas to ecosystem or landscape management.

The objectives of Nepal’s Tiger Action Plan are:

· survey and monitor the status of tigers and their habitats

· identify priority areas for tiger habitat restoration

· continue long-term study of tiger biology

· educate the public about the importance of tiger conservation

· improve tiger-human relationship through community development activities

· strengthen anti-poaching efforts

· strengthen institutional development

· coordinate trans-boundary tiger conservation actions

· develop a proposal to implement tiger action plan

· develop stronger HMG collaboration with national and
international agencies, development organizations, and research institutes.

Report on Snow Leopard

The Snow Leopard (Uncia uncia), a charismatic flagship species for mountain biodiversity conservation, is distributed throughout the Central Asian region and occurs in Afganistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kajakhistan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The endangered wildlife species is usually found at elevations between 3,000 -5,4000 m. In Mongolia and Russia it occurs between 900-3,000 m.

According to the status report published by the International Snow leopard Trust (ISLT), the world population of this beautiful "Queen of the mountains" is estimated between 4,500 – 7,500 animals. The Nepal Himalaya is believed to house 300 – 500 of this endangered cat species. However, field studies need to confirm the status. Experts monitoring snow leopard across Asia say that the Langu Valley in Shey Phoksundo National Park - a prime snow leopard habitat - has 10-12 of the cats per 100 sq.km., which is considered to be the highest density reported to date throughout the animal’s range. The Manang region of Annapurna Conservation Area is believed to have 4.8 – 6.7 snow leopards per 100 sq. km.

The ISLT report states that two of its most common large prey species are Blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) and Asiatic ibex (Capra ibex sirbirica). Apart from preying on small animals, the opportunistic predator sometimes kills horses and other livestock.

The primary threats faced by the endangered cat are - poaching, depletion of its natural prey base, retaliation for livestock depredation, degradation, fragmentation and loss of habitat, and lack of awareness and support. The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) and WWF Nepal Program organized a one-day workshop on snow leopard on 8 July 1999 in Kathmandu. Dr. Rodney Jackson and other experts from ISLT, who are carrying out studies on snow leopard in Central Asian countries, informed that the use of snow leopard bone in traditional oriental medicine along with the growing trade in its fur has greatly affected the endangered cat. Dr. Joseph L. Fox highlighted on its prey species and informed that there was abundance of blue sheep in the region.

Mr. Rabi Bahadur Bista, Secretary, Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation, highlighted on His Majesty’s Government’s
commitment in biodiversity conservation. He further stressed that Nepal needs the cooperation and support of international community to save the charismatic species for future generation.

Dr. Tirtha Man Maskey, Director General of DNPWC, said that a mechanism for compensation for livestock depredation by snow leopard and other carnivores is being worked out. He also informed that the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) document was being finalized and its formal approval by the government would enable the Department in controlling cases of CITES’ violations. Mr. Shyam Bajimaya, Management Officer at the Department, underlined the need for regional cooperation for the effective conservation of snow leopard in the trans-border areas.

Earlier, DNPWC and ISLT had jointly cosponsored a Training and Survey on snow leopard from 20 May – 2 July 1999 in Shey Phoksundo National Park. Ten DNPWC Rangers and Game Scouts, and two local people participated in the training and survey conducted by Dr. Rodney Jackson and Dr. Joseph L. Fox.

Workshop on Grassland Ecology and Management

The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC), ICIMOD and WWF NEPAL Program jointly organized a workshop on "Grassland Ecology and Management in Protected Areas of Nepal" on March 15-19, 1999 at Research and Training Center for Protected Areas (RTCPA), Lalmati, Royal Bardia National Park. The workshop was participated in by scientists and researchers from Nepal and abroad, as well as protected area managers and senior officers of the Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation and DNPWC. Seven technical papers on Terai grassland and six on Himalayan forests and rangelands were presented at the workshop. Following extensive discussions on grassland issues the participants made recommendations for the preparation of guidelines for grassland management in the protected areas of Nepal. The guidelines are expected to facilitate the effective management of grasslands and pasturelands that would eventually lead to sustainable conservation of natural resources.

Natural grasslands cover approximately 14% of Nepal and are important areas in terms of biodiversity and sources of forage for wild ungulate and domestic livestock. In the lowland Terai of Nepal, natural grasslands occur along riverine flood plains. Due to increasing population pressures in this region, these grasslands only exist in their natural state within the protected areas. Likewise, the Trans-Himalayan and alpine rangelands are home to a diverse array of wildlife and are grazed by livestock, which are an integral part of the lifestyle of several different ethnic groups.

Meeting on Trans-boundary Conservation

The first consultative meeting on trans-boundary conservation between Nepal and India was held in Kathmandu in January 1997 and made several resolutions. The resolutions were related to the improvement of national legislation to address the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES), promotion of the establishment of trans-border conservation areas, maintaining of appropriate database system and sharing of information relevant for biodiversity conservation. The other resolutions dealt with the formation of complementary anti-poaching mechanism to deter poaching and illegal trade in wildlife species and their products as well as smuggling of forest products of commercial value, monitoring of trade routes, species in trade, and the trans-boundary movement of wildlife species. The meeting had also decided on staff exchange program for training and research.

The follow up consultative meeting held from 28 February – 1 March, 1999 in New Delhi, India, made resolutions on developing communications mechanism in the trans-border conservation areas while protecting the corridors for seasonal movement of wildlife species in the contiguous forests, and developing connectivity between Valmiki - Chitwan-Parsa, and Bardia - Suklaphanta - Katarnia - Dudhwa on the basis of ecoregional cooperation. The other resolutions were related to the extension of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, making arrangements to facilitate the movement of valuable aquatic fauna in the trans-border rivers, compensation for livestock depredation by wildlife, information network system on poaching and illegal trade etc.

On the basis of the resolutions of the first consultative meeting, the Department initiated the formulation of regulations for the effective implementation of CITES, and has opened a CITES section at the Department. The Department also prepared the groundwork for the establishment of Kanchenjunga Conservation Area adjoining TAR of China in the north and India in the east. In addition, it initiated regular meetings and sharing of information between protected area managers of the two countries at the field level, and the strengthening of anti-poaching drive and monitoring of illegal trade in wildlife species and their products. The Department also helped organize an international symposium on the Tiger, in December 1998, in Chitwan, Nepal. The other activities include monitoring of tiger habitat, workshop on grassland ecosystem, study tour for
conservation officers, and the dissemination of promotional materials following the first consultative meeting held in Kathmandu.

ZOPP Workshop

The Department organized workshops on "Langtang National Park Management Strategy Framework Planning" from February 25-28, 1999 at the Park HQ at Dunche, and on "Khaptad National Park Strategy Framework Planning’ from June 14-17, 1999 at Silgadhi, Doti. The workshops were organized with the support of Global Environment Facility (GEF). The workshops used the Objective Oriented Project Planning (ZOPP) to prepare management plan for the respective national parks.

The Department has initiated participatory workshops to prepare Park Management Strategic Framework (PMSF) for each protected area in Nepal. Such planning workshops have already been organized in all the lowland Terai parks and reserves with the support of the Parks and People Program/UNDP.

Short-term Research Activities in Protected Areas

The Department gave permission to the students of Tribhuvan University to carry out short-term research studies on the following topics in different parks and reserves for the partial fulfillment to their Master’s Degree in Science from the university.

· Estimation of Bio-mass and Primary Productivity in Grassland of Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

· Impact of Management Practices on Species Composition in Grassland of Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

· Wild Elephant –Man Interaction in the Buffer Zone Area of Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

· Status of Swamp Partridge in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

· Ecotourism in Nepal: A Case Study of Royal Chitwan National Park

· Study on Population Status and Feeding Behavior of Mugger in Royal Chitwan National Park and their surrounding

· Assessment of Habitat Utilization and Nesting Ecology of Mugger in Royal Chitwan National Park

The Department also gave permission to carry out the following short-term research during the fiscal year.

· State of wetlands: A Case Study of Beeshajari, Tamor and Lami Tal

· Ecological Analysis of Soil and Vegetation of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in East Nepal

· State of Tiger and Livestock Depredation in Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve.

· A Study on Medicinal Plants in Khaptad National Park

· Livestock Depredation and Human Harassment by Wildlife and its Control

· Development of Participatory Model for Fund Distribution and Benefit Sharing

· A General Survey of Invertebrates (except lepidoptera) in Royal Bardia National Park

· Potentialities and Impact of Tourism in Royal Bardia National Park

· Status of Bengal Florican in the Grasslands of Royal Chitwan National Park

· Estimation of Biomass and Primary Productivity in Grassland of Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

· Impact of Management Practices on Species Composition in Grassland of Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

· The Impact of Livestock Grazing and Animal Preventive Measures Trenches

· Insect Diversity in Chitwan

· Aquatic Mycrophytes Distribution in Environment and Altitudinal Gradients of Nepal

· Habitat Analysis of the Greater one-horned rhinoceros

· Habitat Assessment of Dolphins and Gharial with Special Reference to Riverine Vegetation, Physical, Chemical Characteristics and Preferable Food Species in Karnali River Basin, Nepal

· A Survey on Mushroom in Rara National Park

· People Interaction in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

· Survey Data and Plant Specimen Collection in Khaptad National Park

· Preliminary Study on Grassland System of the Terai

· An Assessment of Buffer Zone Management Program of the Parks and People Project

· Wild Elephant-Man Interaction in Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve

· Human-Wild Buffalo Interaction: An Assessment on Crop Damage by Wild Buffalo in the Eastern Part of the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

· Status of Swamp Partridge in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

· Indigenous Knowledge and Practices of NTFP’s (harvesting and utilization) Marketing by Local People in Parsa Wildlife Reserve and the Proposed Buffer Zone Area

· Impact Assessment of the Parks and People Program in Royal Bardia National Park.

· Ethnobotanical Study of Royal Chitwan National Park: An Approach Towards Reducing Park Dependency

· Tourism and Sustainability: A Case Study of Royal Chitwan National Park

· Effectiveness of Training Program in Income Generation Launched by the Parks and People Program in the Buffer Zone of Royal Chitwan National Park

· Ethno-Medico-Botany of the Tharu Tribe of Nawalparasi District

· A study on Population and Feeding Behavior of Mugger Crocodile in Royal Chitwan National Park and the Surrounding Area

DNPWC Home Page

The Department’s home page (http://www.south-asia.com/dnpwc) provides information about the on-going activities, new publications, reports etc.

Appendix I

Annual Budget and Expenditure 1998/99

S.N. Park/Reserve/ Office Budget Expenditure Remarks

1. Department of National Parks & Wildlife Conservation 12975000 10179144

2. Royal Chitwan National Park 8197000 7971213

3. Sagarmatha National Park 3805000 3458102

4. Langtang National Park 5040000 5181764

5. Rara National Park 2631000 1955651

6. Shey Phoksundo National Park 4356000 4309590

7. Khaptad National Park 2876000 2672055

8. Royal Bardia National Park 6389000 5858377

9. Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve 4191000 4066940

10. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve 2343000 2313759

11. Parsa Wildlife Reserve 4091000 4076408

12. Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve 2823000 2605620

13. Environment and Forest Enterprise project 1440000 1389140

14. Elephant Camp 18232000 17816014

15. Royal Hunting Office 4569000 4549016

Total 83978000 78401793

Appendix II

Human casualty in protected areas in the fiscal year 1998/99

The number of local residents killed in accidental encounter with wild animal in different national parks and wildlife reserves and in the buffer zone forests in the fiscal year is shown below.

S. No Protected area No of People Cause of death

1 Royal Chitwan National Park 4 Killed by tiger

2 Royal Chitwan National Park 8 Killed by rhinoceros

3 Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve 2 Killed by wild elephant

4 Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve 1 Killed by rhinoceros

5 Royal Bardia National Park 2 Killed by tiger

6 Parsa Wildlife Reserve 2 Killed by wild elephant

Appendix III

Wildlife Casualty

1. Rhino M 8.8.1998 Bankatta South East, RCNP Serious wounds sustained Horn and hooves recovered in fight between Rhinos

2. Rhino M 12.8.1998 Near Bankatta Post, RCNP- natural death Horn and hooves recovered

3. Baby rhino M 17.8.1998 Gandak Nahar, RCNP at the Indian border Floods

4 Rhino M 22.8.1998 Outside RCNP- Nabalparasi, Laukhani Not known Horn and hooves recovered 5 Baby rhino M 26.8.1998 Baghmara Post Area, RCNP Attacked by an old male rhino

6 Rhino M 13.9.1998 Bankatta Post Area, RCNP Natural death Horn and hooves recovered

7 Rhino M 2.10.1998 Bhagmara Post Area, RCNP Trapped in swamp Horn and hooves recovered

8 Rhino M 4.10.1998 Laukhani Area Nawalparasi, RCNP, Natural Horn and hooves recovered

9 Rhino F 19.10. 1998 Near Bagban Post Area, RCNP Trapped in swamp Horn and hooves recovered

10 Rhino F 11.11.1998 Near Kujauli Post Area, RCNP Fight between rhinos Horn and hooves recovered

11 Rhino - 11.11.1998 Bagban Post Area, RCNP Carcass found Horn was not found.

Hooves were recovered

12 Rhino M 14.11.1998 About 1 km east of Trapped in a pit dug Horn was stolen by poachers.

Amrite Post ,RCNP by poachers Hooves recovered

13 Rhino M 18.11.1998 Bhawanipur Post Area, RCNP Natural Horns and hooves recovered

14 Rhino F 22.22.1998 Amaltari area, RCNP Natural Horns and hooves recovered

15 Baby rhinoo F 19.12.1998 RCNP- Bhimle Area Orphaned

16 Baby rhino F 19.12.1998 Bhimle Post Area RCNP Sickness Hooves recovered

17 Baby rhino M 4.1.1999 Sauraha West bridge no. 2 area, RCNP Killed by tiger Horn and hooves recovered

18 Rhino M 27.12.1998 Reu Khola bank, RCNP Fight between rhinos Horn and hooves recovered

19 Rhino M 11.1.1999 Patihani Nabalparasi, RCNP Fight between rhinos Horn and hooves recovered

20 Rhino - 26.1.1999 Lamichaur, RCNP Trapped in swamp Horn and hooves recovered

21 Baby Rhino F 3.2.1999 Chipleghat, RCNP Trapped in a gabian wire snare Hooves recovered

22 Rhino M 12.2.1999 Khagrendramalli Bange Sissoo Simal GairiGhol, RCNP Fight between rhinos Horn and hooves recovered

23 Rhino M 15.2.1999 RCNP- Khagendramalli Area Fight between rhinos Horn and hooves recovered

24 Rhino M 20.2.1999 Ghatgain Post, Lamital Area, RCNP Natural cause Horn and hooves recovered

25 Rhino M 20.2.1999 Amrite Post Rato khola, RCNP Poisoning Horn and hooves recovered

26 Rhino F 22.2.1999 Narayani Ilaka (District Forest Forest) Office, Poaching Horn was taken by poachers

Jutpani Range Post Area-Bhalu Khola and Khagari Khola Dobhan

27 Rhino F 14.4.1999 Other side of Bhalue Khola RCNP Natural cause Horn and hooves recovered

28 Rhino - 22.4.1999 Amrite Post, Pideni Ghat Area, RCNP Poaching Horn was taken by poachers.

Hooves were recovered

29 Rhino M 19.5.1999 Khagendramalli, RCNP Natural cause

30 Rhino M 15.11.1998 Sukeli khola, RBNP Killed by poachers using firearms Horn was stolen

31 Rhino M 23.3.1999 Nangapur irrigation canal, RBNP Trapped in the irrigation canal Horn and hooves recovered

S. No. Wildlife Species Sex Date Place Cause of Death Remarks

1. Tiger M 7.9.1998 Meghauli, RCNP Shot by park staff Maneater (Luna Bhale)

2. Tiger F 11.10.1998 Pithauli , RCNP Natural cause

3. Tiger 1.2.1999 About 1.5 km South Not known

from Jitpur Ghat, RCNP

4. Tiger M 1.4.1999 Bahraghare, RCNP Poisoning Man-eater

5. Tiger F 25.5.1999 I km South from Island Natural cause

Jungle Resort, RCNP

6. Tiger F 18.4.1999 Bantaria, RCNP Shot by park staff Man-eater

7. Tiger F 27.5.1999 Across the Geruwa River, RBNP Not known Radio colar used for study

S. No. Wildlife species Sex Date Place Cause of Death Remarks

1. Baby Elephant M 8.3.1999 About 3 km north from Natural

Lamkauli forest road, RBNP

2. Leopard - 25.1.1999 Amaltari, RCNP

3. Leopard - 11.2.1999 Bhandara, RCNP

4. Leopard - .4.1999 Kiual VDC Ward 7, LNP Natural cause

5. Clouded Leopard F 12.4.1999 Ghattekulo, LNP Natural cause

6. Bear F 6.4.1999 Kasara ghol, RCNP Not known

7. Baby bear - 6.4.1999 Kasara ghol, RCNP Not known

8. Mugger Crocodile 24.1.1999 Amaltari, RCNP Natural cause

9. Musk deer M 23.10.1998 Dole, SNP Killed by wolf Musk pod recovered 10. Musk deer 3.2.1999 Bichpani, KNP Killed by Wildlife

11. Swamp deer F 17.1.1999 RSWR Wounded

12. Spotted deer RBNP 10 deer killed in different incidents

13. Barking deer RBNP Three

14. Samber deer RBNP Two

15. Blue bull RBNP Ono

16. Civet cat RBNP One

RCNP=Royal chitwan National Park, RBNP=Royal Bardia National Park, SNP=Shey Phoksundo National park, KNP=Khaptad Natioal Park, LNP=Langtang National Park,

RSWR=Royal Suklaphanta Wildlfie Rederve

Appendix IV

Actions taken against poachers and illegal dealers in wildlife products

S.No. Protected Area Place Date Offence

1. RCNP Rajhar Bazar 29.7.1998 Mani Raj Gurung was arrested for the possession of leopard skull & bones

2. RCNP Amrite Post 14.11.1998 Twelve poachers were arrested for killing rhino

3. RCNP Daunne VDC 27.11.1998 Ganga Ram Gurain was arrested for his involvement in illegal trade in leopard skin and bone.

4. RCNP Eighty seven offenders were punished for cutting firewood during thatch grass cutting perod.

5. RCNP Kali Community Forestry Basanta Thapa, a resident of Kerbani VDC, was arrested for dealing in leopard skull & bones trading.

6. RCNP 8.4.1999 Sik Ram B.K. & Sita Ram Pariyar were arrested in possession of 3.5 kg tiger bones.

7. RCNP Handi Khola VDC ward No 8 19.4.1999 Kaman Singh Ghalan was arrested in possession of leopard bone and body parts.

8. RCNP Khairhani VDC Ward No 4 Lal B. Pun and other accomplices were punished for using poison in Rapti River to kill fish

9. RBNP Bhalukhola 8.8.1998 Dhan B. Kami was arrested with gun, snairs & poison

10. RBNP Motipur Post 2.8.1998 Khadg NathYogi was arrested for killing spotted deer.

11. RBNP 2.9.1998 Tribhuvan Tharu was caught with a Rhino horn at Kohalpur.

12. RBNP Babai Valley 13.12.1998 A poacher was shot in enconter by the Patrolling Team

13. RBNP Rambhapur Post Area 6.1.1999 Prem Chandra Caudhani was arrested for killing a samber.

14. PWR Baghmorha 3.8.1998 In an encounter with a gang of wood smugglers (above 25) encounter,
three wood smugglers were killed on the spot.

15. PWR Bhadwa Khola 10.8.1998 A poacher was killed in an encounter with park patrolling team.

16. PWR 7.8.1998 One wood smuggler was arrested.

17. PWR 055/8/22 Lal Bahadur Lama and six other accomplices were arrested in possession of 8kg tiger bone.

18 PWR Ten people were fined for different illegal activities in the reserve.

19. PWR Pratapur Post 27.4.1999 Sudarsan Raut and three others were arrested with 5 guns, 1 pistol and other accessories.
One was injured.

20. RSWR Twenty People were fined for wood smuggling from the Reserve.

RCNP=Royal Chitwan National Park, RBNP= Royal Bardia National Park, RSWR= Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, PWR= Parsa Wildlife Reserve

Appendix V

The Chitwan Declaration on Tiger Conservation

Being aware of the decline in tiger population and its habitat in South Asia, more than 57 participants from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal and representatives from IUCN Cat Specialist Group, WWF-UK, WWF-US, WWF-Bhutan, WWF-International. Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Institute of Forestry-Nepal, Global Tiger Forum, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Embassy of the United States of America in Nepal (observer), ITNC, University of Minnesota, FREDA, CARDMA, Ranthambore Foundation, including a number of tiger specialists and conservationists from different international organizations, on the occasion of silver jubilee of Royal Chitwan National Park, gathered at Sauraha, Chitwan, Nepal for the Regional Symposium on Conservation of Royal Bengal Tiger jointly convened by the
Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation HMG/Nepal, the King Mahendra Trust for Nature Conservation, Visit Nepal Year ’98 Secretariat and WWF Nepal Program from December 12-15,1998. They actively discussed the situation of tiger conservation and realized that the most important and viable populations of the sub species of Royal Bengal Tiger still exists in South Asia and agree to recognize, preserve, restore and increase the effective land base that supports tiger and further agree to make the Chitwan Declaration on tiger conservation for the region.

Considering:

· that the tiger is facing serious threats and is endangered throughout the tiger range countries;

· that the ever increasing human population residing in and around protected areas has exerted tremendous biotic pressure posing a threat to the tiger and its habitat;

· the poaching of tiger for its body parts to be used in traditional oriental medicine combined with human encroachment on its habitat pose threats to the species;

· that habitat loss, poaching, killing in retaliation for human life and livestock loss, and illegal trade in tiger parts have endangered the tiger, its natural habitat and its prey base; that large scale development projects for irrigation and power dams, industries, mines, etc. pose a continuous threat to tiger and its habitat;

Realizing:

· that the conservation of biodiversity is a national, regional and global concern and efforts made in this direction, thus far, is inadequate;

· that the active participation of local people, involvement of conservation organizations and governments and the support of international communities are essential for effective tiger
conservation and in dissuading consumer countries to stop using tiger products;

· that regional cooperation among tiger range countries, scientific research programs, documentation, information sharing and exchange programs are essential for effective trans-boundary cooperation for conservation of tiger and its habitat;

· that regional cooperation among the tiger range countries be strengthened by regular meetings collaborative research,
information sharing, exchange programs and the creation of training facilities for conservation and law enforcement personnel of the tiger range countries of the region;

· that trans-boundary collaborative actions are necessary and specific joint/complementary projects across borders be identified in the next 120 days and action commenced with urgency to conserve tiger habitats vital for connectivity across borders;

· that the communications among the field staff of the
trans-boundary areas be strengthened through regular radio contact, meetings initiating joint patrolling and anti poaching activities wherever appropriate in the border areas to deter illegal activities;

· that the countries of the region sharing international borders must cooperate effectively in managing entire tiger population and tiger habitats in the trans-boundary areas and also promote its conservation in critical areas outside protected areas.

· that the participating countries develop and exchange
appropriate technologies and training programs for scientific wildlife management;

· that non-governmental organizations across countries be involved in tiger conservation with an aim to improve public awareness, seek public support for conservation and lobby for making conservation a high priority in government’s agenda by creating a strong political will and in this regard encourage trans-boundary collaboration for tiger conservation;

· that Nepal, in accordance to it Tiger Action Plan, shares
experiences in community participation in wildlife conservation and offer training for tiger census techniques with the tiger range countries;

· that national legislation be strengthened to support CITES
implementation along with the formulation of appropriate laws to deter illicit trade in endangered wildlife species;

· that the international donor agencies support national programs to discourage the use of tiger body parts in the consumer
countries working through traditional medicine practitioners, support conservation of the species in the range countries, with financial commitment in saving the tiger in South Asia;

· that appropriate proposals for tiger conservation be prepared by the tiger range countries on the basis of the priorities and
experiences of the individual countries for the effective use of the available international funds for tiger conservation, and funds be increased substantially to deal with crisis of the tiger;

· that the tiger is at the apex of the food chain and is an indicator of the health of the ecosystem in which it lives and that the support of international agencies and individuals are essential for the effective conservation of this magnificent animal for our future generation—it is a symbol of the natural heritage of South Asia and every conservation measure must be undertaken before the year 2000 to ensure the survival of viable population of tiger in the wild into the next century and beyond.

Appendix VI

Protected areas in Nepal

Descriptions Areas in sq.km (km2) Year of establishment Physiographic Region

Royal Chitwan National Park

World Heritage Site (WHS) 1984 932 1973 Terai - Siwalik

Sagarmatha NP (WHS 1979) 1148 1976 High Mountain – High Himal

Royal Bardia NP 968 1976/1988 Terai - Siwalik

Makalu Barun NP 1500 1991 High Mountain – High Himal

Langtang NP 1710 1976 High Mountain – High Himal

Shey Phoksundo NP(WHS) 3555 1984 High Mountain – Trans Himalaya

Rara NP 106 1976 High Mountain

Khaptad NP 225 1984 Middle – High Mountain

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (WR)

(Ramsar site 1987) 175 1976 Terai

Royal Sukla Phanta WR 305 1976 Terai

Parsa (WR) 499 1984 Terai - Siwalik

Kanchanjunga Conservation Area (CA) 2035 1997 Middle Mountain – High Himal

Annapurna CA 7629 1992 Middle Mountain – High Himal

Manaslu CA 1663 1998 Middle Mountain – High Himal

Shiva Puri Watershed and WR 144 1984 Middle Mountain

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve 1325 1987 Middle Mountain – High Himal

Total 23919 Terai – High Himal

Buffer zone Area in sq. km. Year

Royal Chitwan National Park 750 1997

Royal Bardia National Pak 328 1997

Langtang National Park 420 1998

Shey Phoksundo National Park 449 1998

Makalu Barun National Park 830 1998

Total 2777

Grand Total (including PAs) 26696 (18.14 % of the country’s total land)