Shey Phoksundo National Park is located in the Dolpa and Mugu districts of western Nepal. It covers an area of 3,555 square kilometers and was established in 1984. The park is named after Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal and one of the major tourist attractions in the park.
Conservation Practices:
Wildlife conservation: Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to several endangered species, including the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, musk deer, and blue sheep. The park authorities have implemented several programs to protect these species, including habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, and wildlife monitoring.
Community-based conservation: The park authorities work closely with local communities to involve them in conservation efforts. The local communities are allowed to collect non-timber forest products and graze their livestock in designated areas of the park.
Sustainable tourism: The park authorities promote sustainable tourism practices to reduce the negative impacts of tourism on the environment. These practices include limiting the number of visitors, using renewable energy sources, and promoting eco-friendly tourism activities.
Forest conservation: The park is home to several unique forests, including alpine and subalpine forests. The park authorities have implemented several programs to protect these forests, including reforestation, forest fire control, and soil conservation.
Statistics:
The Shey Phoksundo National Park is home to a wide variety of species, including:
- Over 200 species of birds
- 29 species of mammals, including the snow leopard, Tibetan wolf, musk deer, and blue sheep
- 6 species of reptiles and amphibians
Current Efforts:
The park authorities are continuously working to improve conservation practices and protect the area's wildlife. Some of the recent efforts include:
- The implementation of community-based conservation programs to involve local communities in conservation efforts.
- The promotion of sustainable tourism practices to reduce the negative impacts of tourism on the environment.
- The establishment of a research and monitoring program to study the area's biodiversity and ecosystem.
- The development of alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities to reduce their dependence on forest resources.
In conclusion, Shey Phoksundo National Park is an important protected area in Nepal. The park authorities have implemented several conservation practices to protect the area's wildlife and involve local communities in conservation efforts. By promoting sustainable tourism practices and raising awareness about the importance of conservation, the park authorities are working to ensure that the area remains a biodiversity hotspot for future generations to enjoy.