SHEY PHOKSUNDO NATIONAL PARK
(Project NP0022)
hey Phoksundo National Park, with its trans-Himalayan ecology and stark natural beauty, is probably the best habitat in the entire Himalayan region for the elusive snow leopard. The largest and most pristine protected area in Nepal, it was closed to visitors until 1989. The park also supports Tibetan antelope or chirus (Pantholops hodgsonii), wild ass (Equss hemionus), and other endangered species.
WWF is helping to prepare and implement an operational plan for the park. Priorities are to reinforce protection systems, improve pasture management, and develop conservation awareness and environmental education programmes. Working closely with the DNPWC, other project activities include a biodiversity survey and wildlife census, infrastructure strengthening and anti-poaching measures. The warden of Shey Phoksundo was supported by WWF for his US masters degree programme, and other staff members have received management training both in Nepal and abroad.
Integrated conservation and development programmes are improving the living standards of approximately 2,500 villagers within and around the park. These include providing alternatives to firewood such as kerosene depots, income-generating activities, drinking water facilities, trails, bridges, and developing campsites to manage tourism. A participatory approach is emphasised.
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