Restoration of Himalayan old growth oak forests through science-society interactions
Bhutan
Objectives
Himalayan old growth oak forests dominated by Quercus semecarpifolia are well known for the rich diversity of flora and fauna species which they support. In the recent past, human intervention in these forests has increased substantially resulting in rapid deterioration of these forests in the entire Himalayan range. This will have long-term repercussion on the conservation of these forests, the biodiversity they support and ecosystem services they provide.
With support from the FERI, this project will conduct new research aimed at:
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demonstrating the importance of conserving and restoring these forests to policy-makers and society;
-
understanding old growth oak forest dynamics for long-term restoration and sustainable forest management;
-
mapping the extent of old growth forest distribution and documenting threats;
-
building the capacity of local communities for restoration activities through hands-on trainings, meetings and consultation workshops; and
-
generating local income through strong engagement of communities in projects implementation.
Objectives
Himalayan old growth oak forests dominated by Quercus semecarpifolia are well known for the rich diversity of flora and fauna species which they support. In the recent past, human intervention in these forests has increased substantially resulting in rapid deterioration of these forests in the entire Himalayan range. This will have long-term repercussion on the conservation of these forests, the biodiversity they support and ecosystem services they provide.
With support from the FERI, this project will conduct new research aimed at:
-
demonstrating the importance of conserving and restoring these forests to policy-makers and society;
-
understanding old growth oak forest dynamics for long-term restoration and sustainable forest management;
-
mapping the extent of old growth forest distribution and documenting threats;
-
building the capacity of local communities for restoration activities through hands-on trainings, meetings and consultation workshops; and
-
generating local income through strong engagement of communities in projects implementation.
Implementing partners
This project is carried out by the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environment (UWICE), a government-based research and training institute that fosters better stewardship of Bhutan's natural heritage through rigorous science-based research and transmission of results to field practitioners, environmental leaders and policymakers.
