UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACILITY
PROPOSAL FOR A BLOCK B GRANT
Country:
GEF Operational Programs:
Project Title:
Funding Requested:
Co-Funding:
Country Eligibility:
Nepal
OP 2 Coastal, Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems
Conservation and Sustainable Use of Wetlands in Nepal
US$ 250,000
Ramsar US$ 24,400, IUCN US$ 22,000
Convention on Biological Diversity ratified September 1993.
Participation in the restructured GEF in August 1994.
Requesting Agency:
United Nations Development Programme
Executing Agency:
IUCN
Project Type:
PDF Block B
Block A Grant Awarded:
No
Duration:
12 months
Estimated Starting Date:
December 2000
GEF Operational Focal Point: Ministry of Finance, His Majesty’s Government of Nepal (HMGN)
Estimated Project Size:
$3-4 million in GEF, $ 6-8 million co-financing
Summary
Nepal's wetlands range from high altitude glacial lakes to hot springs, ponds and ox-bow lakes to river
floodplains, marshes to swamps and so forth. These wetlands house rare and endangered species of
flora and fauna. For instance, the floodplains and ox-bow lakes of Bardia, Chitwan, and Koshi Tappu
are breeding grounds for wetlands birds, and serve as sanctuaries for crocodiles, one-horned
rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asiatic wild water buffaloes and other aquatic life. Many wetland sites have
religious and cultural value where festivals and festivities are commonly observed. A number of
economically deprived ethnic groups are dependent upon wetland resources. Wetlands of Southern
Nepal (Terai) face serious threats due to increasing population pressure, infrastructure development
and also from pollution. Their conservation is possible only when consorted efforts are made for
proper management and sustainable use. Stewardship has to be given to the local people.
The overall objective of this PDF-B project is to undertake the necessary preparatory work and lay a
strong foundation for the successful implementation of the full size GEF project on Conservation and
Sustainable Use of Wetlands in Nepal. The focus of the full project will be to ensure conservation of
globally significant species and habitats prevalent in up to four prioritised wetland sites of Nepal.
Within the overall context of the National Biodiversity Action Plan, they have been selected through
intensive fieldwork and consultations. The project will contribute towards the fulfilment of
government's obligations under various conventions such as CBD, Ramsar Convention, World
Heritage Convention and CITES.
The project will be implemented in wetland sites both within and outside Protected Area Systems
(PAS). Biodiversity and invasive species will remain the main focus for PAS whereas main focus
outside the PAS will be given to community management of wetlands paying attention to gender issues
and participation of all stakeholders in the decision making, planning and implementation processes.
The full GEF project shall strengthen government and local capacity to protect, and manage the
selected representative and globally significant wetland ecosystems, to ensure sustainable human
development maximising ecological and economic benefits for the present as well as future
generations. The project would develop mechanism to involve local communities, line departments of
the government, and the NGOs in the respective area to conserve and manage the wetland ecosystems.
The approach of the full project is characterised by the following three components:
1. A replicable model of community-managed wetlands conservation and sustainable use.
2. Building awareness about the need and importance of wetland conservation and their global
significance.
3. Strengthening policy, implementing legal and institutional reforms in order to achieve better
protection of wetland biodiversity
Background
Nepal's wetlands are critically important for a number of endangered species of wildlife such as the
one-horned Rhinoceros, Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Fishing Cat, Gharial and Mugger Crocodile,
Turtles, Gangetic Dolphin, Otter and numerous bird species. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
supports the last remnant population of Asiatic wild water buffalo.
Out of 841 bird species of Nepal (Giri and Choudhary, 1996), 193 species are known to be dependent
on the wetlands (Perennou et al.1994). Of these wetland species, 11 are described as globally
threatened (Annex I), 39 species are identified as threatened on national level (Bhandari, 1998) and
another 11 species are identified as near threatened (Collar et al.1994). The Oriental Darter is resident
breeder in Nepal. The Spot-billed Pelican, a globally threatened species is found in Koshi wetlands,
and the tallest flying bird - Sarus Crane another globally threatened species is also found in Nepal's
wetlands
There are ten endemic amphibians and one endemic reptile (Skink) in Nepal. There are 8 endemic fish
species in Nepal (Biodiversity Profile Project, 1995). Invertebrates are also a major component of the
aquatic ecosystems and important part of the food chain. Nepal's wetlands support a wealth of aquatic
plants, out of them 11 species are rare and endangered while 7 species are endemic as well (National
Biodiversity Action Plan, 1999) (Annex I).
The classification of wetlands is difficult owing to the enormous variety and dynamic nature of
wetlands and also because of difficulties in defining wetland boundaries with any precision (Ramsar
Convention Manual, 1994). However, out of the three standard categories of wetlands (Inland,
Riverine, and Coastal) Nepal has only Inland and Riverine types of wetlands. Shrestha and Bhandari
(1992) have reported seven types of wetlands in Nepal their habitat types as follows: i. Lakes, ii.
Ponds, iii. Reservoirs, iv. River floodplains, v. Swamps, vi. Marshes vii. Rice Paddies.
The Inventory of Nepal's Terai Wetlands prepared by IUCN Nepal (Bhandari, 1998) has identified 163
sites as significant wetlands. The inventory is concentrated to the Southern Nepal (Terai), which
constitutes 23% of the landmass of the country and hosts 50% of Nepal's total population. The
inventory of Nepal's Terai Wetlands is maintained including the following information:
 Type of wetlands (natural or man-made);

Geophysical features of the site;

Basic data on physical, biological (flora and fauna), limnological, hydrological and socioeconomic information;
26

Information on socio-cultural and socio-economic values and the conservation status;

Ownership and land tenure situation, people's perspectives on wetland conservation;

Uses, threats and disturbances.
The National Biodiversity Action Plan has identified IUCN Nepal as a government partner for
wetlands conservation and management. The Biodiversity Action Plan has also identified ten priority
sites in Terai on the basis of their global biodiversity values and the level of threat to these values
(Annex II).
Threats to Wetland Biodiversity in Nepal
Wetlands of Nepal especially those in the Terai Region with all their rich biological resources are
facing several threats due to a growing population's demand for land and a wide variety of products
and services. A wide variety of uses of the Terai wetlands (table 1 below) give an indication of the
level and intensity of threats facing Terai wetlands.
Table 1: Uses of Wetlands in Nepal Terai
Uses
Frequency
Percentage
Fishing
153
94
Grazing
113
70
Irrigation
112
69
Plant harvest*
96
59
Domestic use
52
32
Fuelwood
32
20
Wildlife use
20
13
Religious use
18
11
Others**
23
14
* Includes thatch grass, fodder, timber and aquatic crops
** Includes recreational use
Source: IUCN Nepal, '96
Some of the major threats to the Terai wetland biodiversity are described below. Furthermore, sitespecific threats for the four candidate sites are further explained in Annex III.
1.
Siltation
There are approximately 6000 big and small rivers and rivulets in Nepal. A number of them with
seasonal water flow culminate from the Siwalik Hills, which geologically are quite loose and fragile,
and prone to severe natural erosion. Additionally continual deforestation and forest degradation
together with increased human activities in the catchments such as uncontrolled grazing, fire,
deforestation and land encroachment have considerable impact over the erosion process. It has resulted
in siltation of lowlands of Terai on a wider scale and lowering the water level.
Nepal's Terai wetland inventory has reported that about 66 percent of wetlands are threatened by
siltation. Koshi Tappu and Ghodaghodi lake wetlands for instance face severe siltation problems
resulting in the degradation of the unique breeding ground of many migratory birds and fishes.
2.
Eutrophication
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Eutrophication is an ageing process under which lake water ecosystem becomes highly nutritious and
resultantly excessive floral life especially invasive species start dominating wetlands. Due to the
oxygen deficiency the faunal life gradually becomes extinct. Consequently, lake wetlands turn in to
marshes and ultimately get converted into dry earth. Excessive use of fertilisers and insecticides also
contribute significantly in eutrophication process.
Eutrophication has gradually led to the subsidence of wetlands. Not only the valuable habitats for
aquatic wildlife are facing gradual deterioration, but also some globally important flora and fauna are
threatened and gradually disappearing especially from the four candidate wetland sites.
3.
Over exploitation of wetland resources
Due to a growing population, many of the Terai wetlands are facing over-exploitation of their
resources including fishing, poaching, hunting and grazing.
3.1
Over-fishing
Fishing is one of the most common methods of exploiting wetland resources and approximately 94%
of wetlands are prone to it. Over fishing in the reverine ecosystem has led to serious threat to
freshwater fishes such as Sahar (Tor tor), Mahasheer (Tor putitora), Raja Bam (Anguilla bengalensis)
and endangered Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) and Gangetic Dolphins (Palatanista gangetica). The
Ghodaghodi Lake alone suffers from fishing and collection of snail and turtles by more than 400
households (IUCN Nepal, 1998). Unsustainable practices such as the use of very small mesh sized nets
and traps, frequent bombing, and poisoning are on the increase in these areas. Many Terai wetlands
such as Beesh Hazar and Gaindahawa lakes are annually leased to the contractors, who bag all the
available fishes and thus contribute to the extinction of some valuable species.
3.2
Hunting and Poaching
Hunting and poaching is prevalent throughout Terai. The population of birds is declining due to illegal
hunting. The decrease in the population of birds and often the extinction of some threatened and
endangered bird species from wetlands can be attributed to lack of awareness and unregulated hunting.
3.3
Overgrazing by livestock
Traditionally Lakeshores and floodplains have been used as the grazing grounds for thousands of
livestock in Nepal. According to an estimate 70% of the wetlands are prone to grazing. For example,
20-25 thousand animals graze on Koshi Tappu wetland everyday (Sah, 1997).
3.4
Illegal harvesting of Wetland Resources
The population in the Terai region has been growing at a considerable rate and it has led to illegal
harvesting: illegal cutting of wood and other bio-mass; water poisoning for fishing; poaching to kill
threatened species such as Gharial Crocodile, Garden Lizard, Monitor Lizard, Marsh Crocodile and
Water Fowl; draining the wetland for fishing and rice cultivation; extension of farm fields to illegally
occupy the wetland areas.
4.
Encroachment
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Migration of people from the hills and mountains to the plains of Terai is on the increase. Currently
over 50% of Nepal's population reside in Terai that is no more than 23% of the land area. Therefore,
encroachment of forestland and wetlands to create farms and fields has been going on for several
years. The loss of forests in Terai is estimated to be 1.3 per cent per annum (Forest Research and
Information System Project, 1999). Both public and communal lands suffer the risk of encroachment
for settlements, farming and other developmental activities. The trend is on the increase and posing
serious threats to wetlands also.
5.
Water Pollution
In order to meet the food needs of a growing population, the use of fertiliser, insecticides and
pesticides has increased manifold and has contributed to ground and surface water pollution.
Agricultural run-off, domestic sewage and industrial effluents are some of the major sources of
polluting Nepal's wetlands. Pollution has lowered the quality of water and increased the rate of
eutrophication. Pollution has caused severe toxic impacts on the wetland biodiversity. This is evident
from the gradual loss of aquatic fauna and some valuable organisms that form the food chain in the life
support system in soil and water.
6.
Developmental Activities in Adjoining Areas
The Terai Region bordering India is economically one of the most active areas of Nepal. The pace of
industrial and infrastructure development have increased manifold, markets are growing and north to
south migration is on the increase. Developmental activities pose serious threats to wetlands and in the
absence of any appropriate policy and legal frameworks to conserve wetlands the situation is likely to
deteriorate further.
7.
Drainage
Opening an outlet ditch or using high-powered pumping engines to drain water to harvest fish and
aquatic resources have become a common practice in Nepal. Once a wetland site is drained, it is often
reclaimed for cultivation.
8.
Introduction of Invasive Species
Wetlands are being invaded by invasive species such as water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes),
Besharam (Ipomoea carnea ssp. fistulosa). These weeds pose a serious problem in Terai wetlands.
9.
Floods
During the monsoon season Nepal receives plenty of rainfall. As most of Nepal is mountainous with a
number of rivers and rivulets, during the rainy season the surface run off creates high floods in the
Terai plains. Floods although a natural phenomenon are further intensified by the unscientific land use
practices in upstream areas. Floods pose serious threats to the wetland's floral and faunal diversity in
terms of loss of habitat, resting-place and breeding grounds of many birds and animals during the
monsoon.
The intensity and scale of the threats facing any wetlands vary with the population density, local
practices and customs, and socio-economic conditions. Therefore, there is a pressing need to identify,
26
analyse and address the underlying causes of these threats in a holistic and integrated manner in order
to adequately conserve globally significant Terai wetlands.
Table 2 below identifies the major threats facing the four candidate wetland sites. The development of
a full-scale proposal during the PDF-B phase will help undertake further analysis of threats including
their nature and scale.
Table 2: Major threats facing candidate project sites
Threats
Siltation
Eutrophication
Over fishing
Hunting/Poaching
Over-grazing
Illegal harvesting of wetland
resources
Encroachment
Water Pollution
Developmental activities in
adjoining areas
Drainage
Introduction of invasive species
Floods
Koshi Tappu
wetland
Beeshazar Tal
wetland
Lumbini Area
Wetland
Ghodaghodi tal
area Wetland
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
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+
+
+
+
Associated Root Causes
The main causes underlying degradation of wetlands range from uncoordinated planning, lack of coordination amongst govt. agencies, lack of information and awareness. This is illustrated by multiple or
conflicting ownership of wetlands and ineffective policy and action. For instance, Department of
Forests, Fisheries Development Division, Department of Irrigation, Ministry of Water Resources,
District Development Committee and Village Development Committee claim the jurisdiction of
wetlands. In some cases government owns the lands but usufructs belong to the intermediaries or
tenants (IUCN Nepal, 1996). An initial analysis suggests the following amongst the underlying root
causes:







Lack of an effective wetlands policy (poor legal framework);
Weak enforcement of law;
Land tenure issues;
Lack of knowledge and awareness among people, planners and policy-makers about the
importance of wetlands conservation and their global significance;
Lack of community participation and involvement in wetlands conservation;
Ineffective planning and lack of management co-ordination; multiple jurisdiction of wetlands by
government authorities;
Lack of management plans for wetlands.
26
Baseline Situation
The efforts to conserve biodiversity and the related endangered flora and fauna in Nepal go back to
early 1970s with the enactment of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act in 1973. The
subsequent years show the development of a network of protected area system of management.
Emphasis was further expanded to include many other ecologically sensitive yet productive
landscapes. Approved in 1988, The Master Plan for the Forestry Sector (MPFS 1988) emphasised on
the management and utilisation of forest resources on long-term basis according to their ecological
capability so as to conserve ecosystems including soil, water, flora and fauna in a holistic and
integrated manner.
Community involvement in conservation was formalised and initiated later in 1993 to incorporate
community welfare and development together with the conservation through the enactment of Buffer
Zone Management Act (1993). With the assistance of UNDP’s “Parks and People Programme”,
DNPWC has finalized and adopted the "Buffer Zone Management Guidelines” in 1999. These
guidelines cover many aspects related to implementation of the Buffer Zone Management Act (1993),
including arrangements for management of the 30-50% of park revenues, required by the Act to be
allocated to buffer zone communities for their livelihood and development. Despite successful
application of these guidelines in some project sites, implementation at the field level leaves much to
be desired. There still exists a pressing need to enhance the role of the local communities in the
management of protected areas, ecosystems and areas of ecological importance such as wetlands.
The importance of conserving ecosystems in a holistic manner was further highlighted under the
forestry sector of the Nepal Environmental Policy and Action (NEPAPII, 1998). The Biodiversity
Conservation Programme - as a part of the Forestry Sector Action Plan - focuses on the conservation of
ecosystems and genetic, plant and animal resources, and protection of special areas for their ecosystem
and genetic resource value. Key actions include conserving biodiversity both within and outside
protected areas, ensuring that all major ecosystems are under some kind of management status.
Furthermore, Nepal’s current 9th Five Year Development Plan gives impetus to the habitat
improvement of rare and endangered wildlife species and the participation of local communities in
conservation activities.
In consultation with the Government, a review of the Terai wetlands was carried out by IUCN and an
inventory of 163 Wetlands in the Terai Region was published in 1998.
The Government has embarked upon a "Parks People Program", funded by UNDP that aims to develop
alternative income generating activities in the buffer zones of protected areas. The activities underway
include the protection of core protected areas, such as support from the Ramsar Convention Bureau for
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, and assistance from a number of sources with the management of
Royal Chitwan National Park. What perhaps lacking at this stage is bringing those areas outside PA
system - which have a national and global significance for their biological resources and threatened
ecosystem - under efficient and collaborative management regimes.
The proposed Block-B project is a step in this direction focussing on detailed studies of proposed sites,
collaborating with the key stakeholders, identifying the management options and establishing efficient
collaborative conservation modalities that could be replicated and adapted to the local conditions to
conserve the wetlands of Nepal.
26
The focus of the PDF-B would be to conserve globally significant biodiversity on up to four wetlands,
identified as the priority wetlands by the draft Nepal Biodiversity Action Plan, 2000 (NBAP). The plan
recommends them to be designated as the Ramsar sites.
A significant proportion of the economically deprived population is dependent upon the wetland
resources. Therefore, development activities carried out in these areas need to be carefully examined
and planned in order to circumvent the adverse impact both on the wetlands and livelihood of people.
The proposal will address these important issues.
In addition, funding is requested to expand the knowledge base about wetlands, by carrying out further
studies about the wetlands in the north of the country, and by disseminating information about the
importance of wetland conservation.
Candidate Project Sites
The Nepal Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) has prioritised ten internationally important wetland
ecosystems for inclusion in the protected area system as they are insufficiently covered at present. The
priority wetlands are wintering sites for several species of waterfowl and provide staging sites during
the migration period. According to the plan, eight of these sites should be declared as Ramsar Sites
since they are of major international importance and a good representative examples of ox-bow
ecosystem supporting appreciable assemblages of rare, vulnerable and endangered wildlife species.
The four candidate sites for this project (see descriptions in Annex III, and map in Annex V) were
identified on the basis of globally significant biodiversity in ecologically and geographically diverse
sites. Three of the four proposed project sites are amongst the priority wetlands recommended by the
NBAP. The fourth site is an important wetland area and NBAP (page 103) has stressed for an urgent
management support for it. The four sites represent various ecosystems such as river floodplain, oxbow lakes, marshes, swamps and reservoirs. It is expected that the management of these wetland sites
will provide a full range of wetland management prescriptions for the wetlands of Nepal. Furthermore,
the project would make a significant contribution towards the strengthening of institutional and human
capacities required to manage the wetlands of Nepal. The names of the candidate sites are as follows:




Beeshazar Tal;
Lumbini Wetland Sites (described in NBAP as Jagadishpur, Gaindahawa wetland site);
Pahalwanpur Ilaka lakes in the Ghodaghodi lake area;
Koshi Tappu Wetland Site is not included in the NBAP priority list as it is already a protected
area. As mentioned above it is an important wetland and needs urgent management support, as
recommended by the NBAP (page 103).
GEF Alternative
Through the systematic implementation of activities to be elaborated during the PDF-B phase of
project design, globally significant biodiversity in diverse wetland ecosystems in Nepal will be
sustainably conserved. This will be achieved through removal of underlying causes of threats to
biodiversity, in the following ways:

Threats resulting from the lack of an effective wetlands policy will be addressed through the
preparation of a comprehensive wetland management policy and an enabling legal framework as a
26






major output based on i) the identified gaps and flaws in the existing policy and legal framework,
ii) analysis of management protocols wherever they exist, and iii) analysis of efficient management
options through intensive community consultations.
Threats resulting from weak law enforcement will be addressed through capacity building,
training, and awareness building of the relevant law enforcement agencies, supported by the
forging of greater commitment within the government to institutionalizing efficient participatory
management and sustainable use regimes of wetland resources through suitable policy and legal
framework and regular facilitation as a major stakeholder.
Threats resulting from a lack of clarity in land tenure will be addressed through the establishment
of an equitable and effective mechanism for the resolution of such issues that is transparent and
supported by local stakeholders.
Threats resulting from a lack of knowledge and awareness will be addressed through an awareness
building campaign amongst different stakeholders from grass roots to the central level about the
importance of wetland conservation and its global significance. The nature of the campaign will
be tailored to different stakeholders’ needs, using through direct interactions, publications, media
activities and on-site visits.
Threats resulting from a lack of community participation will be addressed through the previously
described policy and awareness interventions, as well as by institutionalizing participatory
planning and management approaches in all aspects of management planning and implementation,
and integrating economic opportunities with conservation of biodiversity
Threats resulting from ineffective and sector-specific planning will be addressed through capacity
building in inter-sectoral planning and through policy reforms for resolving overlapping and
conflicting jurisdictions over wetlands (through systematic identification of specific problems and
their resolution through participation by all concerned stakeholders)
Finally, all of these interventions will be integrated through implementing conservation and
sustainable management at a series of demonstration sites, which will allow testing and refinement
of solutions, as well as promoting replicability to other wetland sites in Nepal.
Project Objectives and Activities
The broad objective of this project is to conserve biodiversity of global significance in the wetlands of
Nepal. There are three objectives envisioned under this project, each will include GEF-eligible
incremental activities and co-financed sustainable activities:
1. The design and implementation of replicable models of community-managed wetlands
conservation and sustainable use in different wetland ecosystems
The development of conservation mechanisms and the implementation of management plans will
prevent further degradation of the wetland ecosystems, and will serve as models for replication with
minor changes as necessary to conserve other wetlands of Nepal.
2. Building awareness about the need and importance of wetlands conservation and their global
significance
Given the lack of knowledge and awareness about wetland conservation and their global significance,
the project would firstly undertake an economic valuation of wetland ecosystems in Nepal to highlight
and draw the attention to the importance of wetlands in the national economy.
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3. Strengthening policy, implementing legal and institutional reforms in order to achieve better
protection of wetland biodiversity
Improvement of law enforcement and promotion of inter-sectoral planning and management will be
achieved through strengthening the law and policy framework and undertaking relevant capacity
building and training.
Under each of these objectives, the GEF project will undertake various activities designed to
sustainably remove threats to, and the underlying causes of threats to globally significant biodiversity.
Specific project activities will be formulated in the course of the PDF-B. However, indicative project
activities include the following.
1. Replicable models of community-based management.
The project will:
a) Implement integrated management plans for all selected sites. These plans will be an output of the
PDF-B activities focussing on stakeholders consultations to ensure full ownership by local
communities.
b) Create the necessary institutions to establish effective multi-stakeholder management of the
resource, and ensure that these institutions have adequate capacity to manage the resource.
c) Establish required mechanisms for monitoring and inventory of the resource. In some cases, this
will include elements of targeted research – for example, the status of dolphins in Narani Lake in
the Gohdaghodi Wetland area will be studied to ensure that the management plan is consistent
with conservation of this species. Such studies can be initiated during the PDF-B, but cannot be
completed in the timescale of the PDF-B.
d) Strengthening of existing mechanisms, and where necessary, creation of new mechanisms to
ensure the equitable and sustainable use rights of those who are dependent on wetlands, providing
support to them as custodians of wetland resources in line with their traditional/cultural norms and
values.
e) The project will also have a special focus on gender aspects and its implications on the
conservation of wetland resources. The role and function of the both genders and specific age
groups with reference to the use and conservation of wetland resources will be identified and
prioritised.
2. Education and awareness
The project will:
a) Seek the participation of schools, NGO’s, media and the Government to strengthen existing
initiatives and develop an innovative awareness campaign with materials about the importance and
benefits of conserving biodiversity of the four demonstration sites.
b) Launch national wetlands awareness campaign, distributing environmental education materials on
values and functions of wetlands and globally significant wetland species.
c) The campaign will focus especially on emphasising the role of local communities as custodians of
their wetlands resources and the economic benefits that can be achieved through their conservation
and sustainable use.
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3. Legal framework and capacity building
The project will:
a) Build upon the recommendations suggested by the BSAP to tackle existing gaps in policy and
legal framework so far as the intensive management of wetlands outside protected area system is
concerned.
b) Implement the recommendations of the review of national policies, legislation, institutional
responsibilities and land tenure system carried out during the PDF B phase, including securing the
required administrative approvals of the recommended changes.
c) Implement training courses to strengthen management capacity for the conservation and
sustainable use of wetlands, both at the national and local level. It is expected that these changes
will lead to a conducive policy and legal framework, supportive of efficient wetland management
and an effective institutional mechanism ensuring co-ordination and implementation and also
planning, monitoring and evaluation of the conservation measures
2. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED PDF B ACTIVITIES
This PDF-B will lay the groundwork for the full implementation of the proposed full size project.
Specifically, it will define the institutional mechanisms for co-ordinating its implementation, establish
a process for multi-stakeholder participation in the project design, undertake initial studies and
analyses, and formulate a full project brief, which will describe the framework, strategy, scope and
activities to address the objectives as defined.
IUCN Nepal will carryout the PDF-B, with the support, involvement of, and consultation with the
various government departments in such a way that each proposed activity of the proposed full project
will complement the baseline activities. In this respect, the additional (or incremental) cost of those
measures to achieve global environmental benefits will be determined. Existing national and
sustainable development plans and activities will be reviewed. The incremental cost will depend on the
choice of alternative GEF activities, which delivers the equivalent domestic benefits as well as
additional global benefits over and above those achievable in the baseline. Activities would be
technically, economically and environmentally feasible, yet consistent with the social and political
constraints.
Activity 1: Establishment of the Steering Committee and Project Management
A small team of experts, headed by a team leader, will be recruited and will undertake the PDF-B
activities. Expertise will be provided in the field of wetlands biodiversity, aquatic biology, community
development, environmental economics, environmental law and environmental education. PDF-B
activities will be overseen by a Project Steering Committee (PSC), chaired by Director-General,
DNPWC, with other members (to be confirmed) being representatives from agencies such as Ministry
of Environment and Population, Dept. of Forests, Dept. of Archaeology, Ministry of Finance, National
Planing Commission, UNDP and IUCN. The PSC will function under the umbrella of the National
Wetland Coordination Committee, since the Director-General of DNPWC acts a member secretary of
the national committee.
The Steering Committee will meet in Kathmandu back-to-back with the inception workshop, to
approve the inception report and the final selection of sites, based on recommendations presented by
the PDF-B team, and to agree on the work plan for the rest of the PDF-B phase. It will meet again, in
one of the demonstration sites, towards the end of the PDF-B phase in order to review the draft final
26
GEF brief and full project proposal. A third meeting may be called halfway through the PDF-B phase,
in order to explore support from other possible co-funding agencies for the full project.
Outputs
 Steering Committee established;
 Project team recruited;
 Selection of project sites
 Workplan for PDF B approved by Steering Committee.
Activity 2: Conduct of socio-economic assessments at the selected wetland sites
This project aims at laying a strong foundation for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands in
Nepal through the successful implementation of a full size GEF project in selected wetland sites.
Hence, it becomes crucial to develop/document a common understanding on wetlands with respect to
the existing use patterns and practices, threats, cultural constraints and conservation and sustainable
use related issues from the perspectives of different stakeholders including local poor dependent on
wetlands.
The existing body of knowledge on wetlands of Nepal is inadequate in terms of capturing all these
aspects. The most recent work by IUCN Nepal is just an inventory of wetlands and does not capture
the detailed socio-economic and cultural aspects from stakeholders’ perspectives. Detailed studies and
assessments will be carried out involving the stakeholders of respective wetland sites in the in first
three months of the PDF B project implementation. These studies will be further verified and updated
during stakeholder consultations.
Outputs
 Detailed Stocktaking and Resource Assessment of proposed wetland sites
 Socio-economic Assessment including level/scale of dependence over wetland resources.
 Options Assessment showing costs and benefits incurred under different options
Activity 3: Conduct of stakeholder consultations
A national inception workshop will be conducted during the first month of the PDF-B activities, to
launch the project and get feedback on the overall approach and priorities for the project. Participants
will be drawn from all Government institutions, NGO's and academic institutions, international
organisations and funding agencies that have an interest in wetland biodiversity. Representatives from
the selected demonstration sites will also be invited to participate.
Following the inception workshop, detailed consultations will take place at all selected sites to discuss
with local stakeholders on how to develop the management plans, and who should be involved in the
project. Stakeholder plans will be drawn, and project management arrangements will be agreed upon.
A second round of consultation will take place after four months, in order to brief local stakeholders
the findings of studies and assessments, different available options, their costs/benefits and
prerequisites, about proposed activities and priorities for action, and in order to discuss the specifics
for implementation. At this stage a common understanding will be developed as to what will be the
most efficient option for an integrated and holistic ecosystem conservation ensuring the better
economic opportunities for those dependent on particular wetland resources. At this time, budgets will
be prepared, baseline investments will be identified and incremental costs will be calculated. Local
26
government will be asked to endorse the proposed arrangements, so plans can be implemented during
the full project.
A third round of consultation will take place at the end of the PDF phase, in order to present the draft
final proposal and to get feedback on the details of the GEF brief and full proposal document.
Outputs
 Inception meeting;
 Possible management options at project sites to address threats
 Community endorsement of proposed activities;
 Local government endorsement of proposed plans;
 Agreed management arrangements for the implementation of the full GEF project.
Activity 4: Review of national policies, legislation and institutional responsibilities and land
tenure system
Presently there exists a gap in policy and legal framework so far as the intensive management of
wetlands outside protected area system is concerned. During the PDF-B phase, a review will be carried
out of the policies, and related issues. The review will provide recommendations for institutional
improvement where necessary and provide guidance for training activities during the full project. Gaps
and overlaps in laws and policies will be identified, and recommendations to overcome these
bottlenecks will be provided.
Outputs
 Report with recommendations;
 Suggestions for institutional changes;
 Priorities for training and institutional strengthening;
 Specific recommendations for improvements in legal and policy framework for wetland
conservation;
 Agreed management arrangements for the implementation of the full GEF.
Activity 5: Design of a national wetlands awareness campaign
During the PDF-B phase, an awareness campaign will be designed to raise awareness on the functions
and values of wetlands. The campaign will address general issues, as well as site-specific aspects of
the demonstration sites. In particular, information will be disseminated about economic values of
wetlands, ecosystem functions and upstream/downstream linkages.
Outputs
 Design of an overall campaign with resource requirements;
 Proposals for specific awareness materials;
 Priorities for communication at the demonstration sites;
 Public participation and awareness in wetland conservation.
Activity 6:Preparation of GEF project brief and draft project document
The first draft project brief will be completed after six months. A final draft will be prepared after nine
months. The remaining time will be used to incorporate comments from the stakeholders, fine-tune
proposed activities and finalise the text of the project annexes. At the end of the PDF-B phase, a first
draft UNDP proposal document will also be completed.
26
During the first half of the PDF-B phase, information will be gathered about ongoing and planned
investments in any of the demonstration sites, and a baseline calculation will be carried out to describe
the alternative action without GEF investment.
During the second half of the PDF-B phase, the GEF alternative will be described and the incremental
costs will be calculated.
At the same time, co-finance options will be explored for the full proposal and additional baseline
funds will be identified. Discussions are under way with the Embassy of the Royal Netherlands
Government about possible co-finance.
Outputs
 A summary of the global significance and unique biological and ecological attributes of each of the
project sites, and the global benefits that would accrue from conservation intervention
 Details of the ecological, social and economic attributes of the sites
 A description of the threats facing each site and their root causes
 A clear strategy for mitigating all threats and their underlying causes using an incremental costs
approach
 An account of the realistic baseline
 Identification of the sustainable development baseline (comprising additional activities required to
address threats that may be justified in the domestic interest)
 Identification and justification of the incremental costs of activities needed to generate global
conservation benefits, over and above the sustainable development baseline.
 Details of monitoring and evaluation measures
 Details of execution and implementation measures, with an accompanying organigramme
The following annexes will be attached to the Brief:







Incremental Cost assessment describing global and domestic benefits, and justifying incremental
costs for each output
Logical Framework Assessment, with quantifiable indicators to measure impact, a list of sources of
verification, and an outline of the assumptions and risks that underpin the project
Details of the biodiversity values of each of the project sites, to supplement information provided in
the main body of the Brief
Assessment of the risks affecting project implementation and outline of mitigation measures
Summary of the Stakeholder Assessment and Social Feasibility Study, defining the roles and
responsibilities of different groups in design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation
Maps of the project areas
List of reference materials
Activity 7: Donor meeting to explore possible co-funding
Invite the donor community/private sector to a round table meeting with the objective of getting cofunding for the Full Size Project
Output

Agreement with donors regarding funding for the full size project
26
Activity 8: Development of Monitoring and Evaluation Plan
Impact and output indicators will be selected, and baseline data obtained as a basis for measuring project
outcomes. An M&E plan will be developed, clearly articulating the objectives of monitoring, and
specifying the level and periodicity of monitoring and evaluation activities, and how they will be
orchestrated.
Outputs
 An M&E plan, with clear performance indicators
3. ELIGIBILITY
The proposed project falls within the GEF Operational Programme 2 titled "Coastal, Marine and
Freshwater Ecosystems" as included in the GEF Operational Strategy in the focal area the Convention on
Biological Diversity (CBD). The proposed project seeks in general to address the imminent threats to the
rich biodiversity of Nepal's wetland ecosystems. Specifically it will address the issues (from policy level
to establishing an efficient in situ implementation mechanism) relating to an efficient collaborative
management of up to four priority wetlands of Nepal, which in the long run is expected to provide a
framework for the management of wetlands through out the country. The approach to be developed under
PDF-B will be consistent with the guidance developed by GEF for its Forest Ecosystems Operational
Programme.
Nepal has confirmed its international obligations towards the conservation of natural resources by
signing international conventions and other agreements. Significant among these are the CBD, CITES,
Ramsar, and World Heritage Conventions. As contracting party to the CBD and Ramsar the HMGN will
require to justify its obligations by ensuring that an efficient wetlands conservation and management
modality is developed and demonstrated for replication (with locally suitable changes) in other wetlands.
IUCN has been working for the conservation of biodiversity of Nepal for the last 15 years. Amongst
others, it has carried out considerable amount of work leading to a baseline register of the wetlands of
Nepal. In addition some activities have also been initiated in a number of important wetland sites
including the conservation initiatives around the Ghodaghodi wetland site and Koshi Tappu with the
assistance of local NGOs and the DNPWC respectively. In the backdrop of the knowledge and
experience of wetlands management IUCN has decided to go for the PDF-B proposal.
4. NATIONAL LEVEL SUPPORT
Amongst the main aims of the 9th five-year Development Plan (1997-2002) of Nepal is poverty
alleviation, and integrated development of forestry and agriculture sectors forms the strategic
framework for achieving this aim. The emphasis is on empowering, activating and giving lead role to
the local level organisations for equitable and sustainable use and conservation of natural resources.
Among the priority areas, endangered species habitat improvement, conservation of genetic diversity
and life support systems and a revision of economic and financial policy to complement the
environmental policy are some of key priority areas that support the implementation of this proposal.
The government of Nepal is in the final stages of finalising the Nepal Biodiversity Action Plan. NBAP
aims at fulfilling the provisions of the CBD and provides the guiding principles including participatory
approach to biodiversity conservation, and equitable and sustainable use of natural resources, which
fully backs up the PDF-B proposal.
26
Besides building on its works on wetlands conservation, IUCN will co-ordinate with HMGN
Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, the King Mahendra Trust for Nature
Conservation (KMTNC) and other national level agencies working on biodiversity conservation in the
wetlands of Nepal. It seeks to develop partnership with other supportive programmes to compliment
their aims and objectives so as to secure the support and commitment of the government and other key
stakeholders for the project at all levels. The project activities, therefore, would be adjusted and
modified as required.
KMTNC, in association with the Department of National Parks, is developing a proposal for GEF
funding for the conservation of endangered species in the Chitwan Valley. The project “Landscapescale conservation of endangered tiger and rhinoceros populations in and around Chitwan National
Park” proposes to work in the Barandabhar Forest Areas including Bish hajari Tal (twenty thousand
lakes) to conserve amongst others aquatic bird species and Mugger Crocodile. A close contact will be
maintained with KMTNC and the Department of National Parks (also IUCN partner for PDF-B) for
mutual learning and experience sharing, and mutually supportive activities would be initiated to the
extent possible so that both the initiatives support and compliment each other’s efforts for conserving
biodiversity.
5. JUSTIFICATION FOR PDF B GRANT
The conservation and sustainable use of valuable wetland resources as noted in previous sections has a
set of pre-requisites, important amongst them are: i) A complete database and inventory of proposed
wetland natural resources; ii) An analysis of the existing people and ecosystem interaction causing
different threats, and leading to the gradual degradation of wetland resources; iii.) A conducive policy
and legal framework supportive to efficient wetland management; iv.) An effective institutional
mechanism ensuring not only co-ordination and implementation but also planning, monitoring and
evaluation of the conservation measures.
IUCN has prepared an inventory of Nepal Terai wetlands and has initiated some activities towards
their conservation. The remaining three pre-requisites need field implementation of a wetlands
management project planned and designed according to collaborative management approaches. Now
this has become important in Nepal to test and demonstrate the conservation benefits of wetlands
conservation involving all parties potentially affected by or affecting the conservation measures or
both. For this purpose the development of a full project needs thorough scrutiny and wider consultation
together with the generation of more technical information and knowledge. Moreover, developing an
eligible, incremental cost approach will require detailed discussions with the government and other
appropriate co-funding institutions.
The full project will complement UNDP-Nepal Country Co-operation Framework, which is comprised
of four focus areas: Gender, Governance, Employment and Environment. The full project will also
comply with the norms set under GEF for other ongoing UNDP-funded environment/natural resource
related projects in Nepal.
6. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE PDF B PHASE
The proposed PDF-B phase will be executed by IUCN Nepal with the support of the Department of
National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC), other relevant government departments, local
Government institutions (e.g. district development committees, village development committees),
NGOs and local communities as the implementing partners. IUCN Nepal while performing its role will
26
co-ordinate and collaborate closely with the partners at different levels to facilitate the implementation
of the project. IUCN however, will have the ultimate responsibility for the achievement of PDF-B aims
and objectives.
A Project Steering Committee (PSC) chaired by the Director General of the DNPWC will be
established at the central level to provide policy level guidance, facilitate and ensure inter-agency coordination, and monitor the progress and performance of the project. Project Implementation
Committees (PICs) will be established for each wetland area and would include the DDC chairman,
Warden/District Forest Officer, and VDC representatives.
The Government has endorsed the proposal and recommended IUCN to execute the PDF-B grant,
through a letter from the Ministry of Finance, which is the GEF focal point in Nepal (see Annex IV).
The Government has designated the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation as the
focal point for this project.
IUCN, in consultation with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, will recruit
the project team members and other staff, and manage the project according to UNDP national
execution requirements.
A project accountant will be assigned by IUCN to administer the PDF-B grant. The HMGN will chair
the Project Steering Committee, and endorse the final GEF brief, before submission to UNDP.
7. ITEMS TO BE FINANCED
In order to define the management arrangements at each of the four demonstration sites, and to allow
for adequate consultation with all stakeholders, USD 250,000 is requested from the GEF Project
Development Fund. The total budget for the project development phase is USD 296,400 and the
following additional funds have been secured. The Ramsar Convention Bureau has allocated USD
24,400 towards the preparation of a management plan for Koshi Tappu. The British Embassy has
provided IUCN with USD12,000 to implement a community management plan for Ghodaghodi Lake.
IUCN will provide USD10,000 through in-kind contribution of staff-time from a number of its staff in
the Asia Region, especially the IUCN Nepal Programme. Other co-financing arrangements for PDF-B
are still being explored. Further, IUCN Nepal has already invested USD119,000 in the process of
surveying and preparing An inventory of Nepal's Terai Wetlands and Community Centred
Management Plan for Ghodaghodi Lake and other wetlands conservation programme in Lumbini, Bees
Hazar Tal, Gaindahawa and crocodile survey work.
The total budget for project development amounts to USD 296,400, broken down as follows:
PDF ACTIVITY
GEF
CO-FINANCE
TOTAL
50,000
10,000
60,000
100,000
36,400
136,400
3. Information Gathering
50,000
0
50,000
4. Proposal Writing
50,000
0
50,000
250,000
46,400
296,400
1. Project Management
2. Stakeholder Consultation
TOTAL
26
8. WORKPLAN
It is expected that PDF-B activities would begin as soon as possible after the approval of the grant, and
would take twelve months to complete. In case PDF-B activities are started by January 2001, it is
envisaged that the project brief for the full project document will be submitted to the UNDP by March
2002.
MONTH
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
0
1
1
12
Recruitment and Office Establishment
Steering Committee
Studies and Assessments
Stakeholders Consultation
Inception report
National meeting
Consultation
Data collection
Proposal writing
Donor meeting
9. RISK AND SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT
a) Risks
Major risks inherent in this project are:
i) Conflicting perceptions/interests of stakeholders including local and central government at different
stages of project implementation prevent the establishment of common goals;
ii) Possible alienation and/or even exclusion of the most resource-dependants - the poor, women and
socially marginalized in the mainstream of wetland management; and
iii) Bureaucratic delay in the formulation and enactment of suitable legal framework for the efficient
management of wetland ecosystem.
Existing government policy ensures in general the safeguarding of local interests for the sustainable
development through the enactment of “Local Governance Act”. Additionally, the analysis of legal
frameworks for the existing gaps and the development of appropriate regulations it is expected to
ensure the broader public interest in coordinating conservation needs with sustainable livelihood. Since
the MFSC and the Department of National Parks is also a major stakeholder in this case, regular
consultations and timely support is ensured.
The proposed project gives high priority to the involvement of local communities at all levels of
project implementation. However, special care will be taken to ensure the representation and more
specifically, the say of socially marginalized and economically deprived sects of communities in
planning and execution of the project. This project builds on creating mass awareness and thereby, the
empowerment of local communities. Most importantly, ensuring broad participation and involvement
26
of all affecting to and affected by the overall management of wetlands, and creating a positive
correlation between the conservation and the economic opportunities is expected to guarantee the
sustainability of this project.
b) Sustainability
Many of the items in the preceding discussion of risk management, such as according high priority to
the involvement of local communities at all levels of project implementation, will contribute to
institutional sustainability of the project.
Financial and institutional sustainability of project benefits will also be promoted through the
following modalities:
 At the national level it is expected that the government following the approval of wetland policy
will provide support on a regular basis as part of its increasing commitment to sustainable wetland
management of proposed wetland sites.
 At the local level there are important opportunities:
i) Formally established institutional arrangements to ensure local responsibility for
management of wetland resources
ii) Economic opportunities afforded by sustainable use of wetland resources especially
eco-tourism and income generating opportunities and
10. SPECIAL FEATURES
a) An integrated co-ordination framework will be fully operationalised at the national, project and
local levels to ensure effective implementation of the project. As there exist a number of relevant
agencies at various levels, their efforts would be co-ordinated to conserve biodiversity through
effective management of the wetlands. Thus, a multi-sectoral co-ordination framework for active
participation of stakeholders at all levels would be sought.
b) An important aspect of the development of wetlands management plans is the participatory process
through a series of stakeholders’ consultations to identify and incorporate their needs, concerns
and aspirations and involve them at all stages of project implementation.
26
References
Giri, T. and H. Choudhary 1996. BCN Newsletter, Vol. 5 No. 3, September. Kathmandu.
Perennou, C.; T. Mundkur; D.A. Scott; A. Follestad; & L. Kvenild 1994. The Asian Waterfowl Census
1987-91: Distribution and Status of Asian Waterfowl. AWB Pulbication No. 86. IWRB
Publication No. 24. AWB. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and IWRB, Slimbridge, U.K.
Bhandari, Bishnu. (Comp.) 1998. An Inventory of Nepal's Terai Wetlands. Kathmandu, Nepal: IUCNThe World Conservation Union.
Collar, N. J.; M.J. Crosby; & A.J. Stattersfield 1994. Birds to Watch: the World List of Threatened
Birds. Bird Life International, Cambridge, U.K.
Biodiversity Profile Project, 1995. Red Data Book of the Fauna of Nepal. His Majesty's Government
of Nepal/Government of the Netherlands.
National Biodiversity Action Plan, 1999 (Draft). Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation/UNDP
Nepal.
IUCN Nepal (1998). The Ghodaghodi Tal Conservation Area: A Community Centered Management
Plan. IUCN Nepal/Natural History Society of Nepal/Ghodaghodi Kshetra Samrakshna Tatha
Bikas Samiti.
Sah, J.P. (1997). Koshi Tappu Wetland: Nepal's Ramsar Site. IUCN Regional Office, Bangkok.
26
Annex I: List of Globally Threatened and Endemic Bird, Reptile, Amphibian and Plant
Species of Nepal's Wetlands
List of Globally Threatened Wetland Dependent Bird in Nepal
Scientific Name
Common Name
Ciconia nigra
Black Stork
Ciconia ciconia
White Stork
Aythya nyroca
Bear's Pochard
Halieaeetus leucoryphus
Ring-tailed Eagle
Ichthyophaga nana
Lesser Fishing Eagle
Ichthyophage ichthyaetus
Grey-headed Fishing Eagle
Rallus aquaticus
Water Rail
Grus grus
Common Crane
Grus antigone
Sarus Crane
Rynchops albicollis
Indian Skimmer
Alcedo herculeus
Blyth's Kingfisher
List of Endemic bird, reptile, amphibian and plant species of Nepal's Wetlands
Scientific Name
Common Name
Bird
Turdoides nipalensis
Spiny Babbler
Pnoepyga immaculata
Nepal Wren Babbler
Reptile
Scinecella capitanea
Skink
Amphibians
Scutiger nepalensis
Rana ercepea
R. minica
R. nepalensis
R. pierrei
R. rara
R. rostandi
R. Teraiensis
Tomoptera maskeyi
Fish
Schizothorax nepalensis
S. macrophthalmus
S. rarensis
S. annandalei
Raimas guttams
Psilorhynchus pseudechnets
26
Scientific Name
Common Name
Lepdocephalichthys nepalensis
Pseudentropius murius batraensis
Plant Species
Saccharum williamsii
Eulaliopsis sykesii
Cyperus trisulcus
Carex rhombifurcatus
C. rufulistolon
Eriocaulon exsertum
E. kathmanduense
26
Annex II: Priority Wetlands Sites in the Draft Biodiversity Action Plan
Site Name
District and VDC
Size
Reason for Designation
Bees Hazar
Tal
Chitwan (Gitanagar)
180
Large complex of ox-bow lakes set in a very scenic environment. Of major
importance as a particularly good representative example of an ox-bows
ecosystem, supporting an appreciable assemblage of rare, vulnerable and
endangered wildlife species.
Gaindahawa
Tal
Rupandehi
(Bisnupura)
11
Ox-bow lake supporting a small resident and wintering populations of several
species of waterfowl.
Jagdispur
Reservoir
Kapilbastu
(Niglihawa)
150
Large irrigation reservoir supporting >4% of the Asian population of
Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca), whose 1% criterion = 100) with 405
recorded. The same site almost reached the 1% criterion for Lesser Whistling
Duck (Dendrocygna javanica).
Badahiya
Bardiya (Chailahi)
100
Large marshy natural depression supporting a large numbers of resident and
wintering populations of several species of waterfowl.
Ghodaghodi
Tal
Kailali
(Darkh,
Ramsikharjhala and
Sandepani)
150
Large complex of ox-bow lakes set in a very scenic environment, surrounded
by dense Sal forest. Of major importance as a particularly good example of
an ox-bows ecosystem supporting an appreciable assemblage of rare,
vulnerable and endangered wildlife species. Important transient site for
migratory species moving between Dudwa National Park (India), Royal
Sukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve and Royal Bardia National Park. Resident
population of Nettapus coromandelianus is nearly 1% of total Asian
population.
Nakhrodi
Tal
Kailali (Sandepani)
100
Large complex of ox-bow lakes set in a very scenic environment, surrounded
by dense Sal forest. Of major importance as a good example of an ox-bow
ecosystem supporting an appreciable assemblage of rare, vulnerable and
endangered wildlife species.
Rampur Tal
Kailali (Urma)
20
Medium-sized complex of ox-bow lakes set in a very scenic environment,
surrounded by dense Sal forest. Or major importance as a particularly good
representative example of an ox-bow ecosystem supporting an appreciable
assemblage of rare, vulnerable and endangered wildlife species.
Deukhuria
Kailali(Dhangadi
Municipality)
22
Large lake set in a very scenic environment. Of major importance as a
particularly good example of an ox-bow ecosystem supporting an appreciable
assemblage of rare (Sarkidiornis melanotos), vulnerable and endangered
wildlife species.
Patriyani
Kanchanpur
(Krishnapur)
35
Large ox-bow lake, of major importance as a particularly good representative
example of an ox-bow ecosystem supporting an appreciable assemblage of
rare, vulnerable and endangered wildlife species.
Bedkot
Kanchanpur (Daiji)
4
Very scenic lake of special value for maintaining genetic and ecological
diversity.
26
Annex III: Description of Wetland Project Sites
1. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve [Ramsar recognition in 1987]
Koshi Tappu shares its territory with Sunsari, Saptari and Udaypur districts of Nepal. It occupies 175 sq. km. at
the floodplain of Koshi river at 75-81 m above sea level. Diverse types of natural wetlands such as rivers,
floodplains, ox-bow lakes, ponds, marshes, and swamps are found in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
Vegetation is dominated by riverine forest (Acacia catechu-Dalbergia sissoo) and Saccharum-Phragmites
grasslands. Over 50% of Nepal's avian fauna, 63% of fish, 17% of mammal and 26% of herpetofauna are
reported from KTWR.1 The Koshi Tappu harbours a number of endangered species like Indian Rock Python,
Asiatic wild water buffalo, Gangetic dolphin, Blue bull, water cock, Abbot's babbler, Swamp partridge and
Bengal florican. His Majesty's Government of Nepal designated the area as Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
(KTWR) in 1976, primarily for conserving Nepal's last surviving population of the Asiatic wild water buffalo,
the present herd size is estimated to be 100 to 150. Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation
(DNPWC) is the government authority to manage the Reserve. The KTWR was enlisted as the Ramsar Site in
1987.
The Reserve has been facing several problems both natural and man made. Every 5 to 6 years, the Koshi river
has a dynamic shift in its natural course. The Reserve's buffer zones consist of croplands and human settlements
with 67,949 population in 12,153 households constraining the Reserve resources for their sustenance. Thousands
of feral cattle and buffaloes permanently reside and graze inside the Reserve. Invasion of water hyacinth is
alarming. The Park People Program supported by UNDP is engaged to resolve conflicts between the park
authorities and the people of the buffer zone. The buffer zone project has been infused to assist park management
to minimise the anthropogenic pressure in core area.
List of Globally Significant Biodiversity in KTWR
Scientific Name
Common Name
IUCN
CITE
S
Reference
Mammals
Palatanista gangetica
Gangetic dolphin
Vu
I
HMG Protected Species
Bubalus arnee
Asiatic wild water buffalo
En
III
HMG Protected Species
Macaca mulatta
Rhesus Macaque
LR:nt
II
Lutra lutra
Common Otter
Lutrogale perspicillata
Smooth-coated Otter
Vu
II
Prionailurus viverrinus
Fishing Cat
LR:nt
II
Leptoptilos dubius
Greater Adjutant Stork
En
Leptoptilos javanicus
Lesser Adjutant Stork
Vu
Halieaeetus albicilla
White tailed eagle
Vu
I
Halieaeetus leucoryphus
Pallas's Fish eagle
Vu
II
Aegypius monachus
Eurasian Black Vulture
Grus grus
Common Crane
-
-
HMG Protected Species
Houbaropsis bengalensis
Bengal Florican
En
I
HMG Protected Species
Syphostides indica
Lesser Florican
En
II
HMG Protected Species
I
Birds
1
II
IUCN Nepal (1998). Updated Field Survey Report (Unpublished).
26
Scientific Name
Common Name
IUCN
CITE
S
Reference
Ciconia nigra
Black Stork
II
HMG Protected Species
Ciconia ciconia
White Stork
II
HMG Protected Species
Pelecanus philippenis
Spot-billed Pelican
LR:nt
Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus
Grey-headed Fishing Eagle
LR:nt
Ichthyophaya humilis
Lesser Fishing Eagle
LR:nt
Halieaeetus albicilla
White-tailed Eagle
Circus melanoleucus
Pied Harrier
Circus macrourus
Pallid Harrier
LR:nt
Aquila heliaca
Imperial Eagle
Vu
I
Falco chicquera
Red-necked Falcon
LR:nt
II
Anthropoides virgo
Demoiselle Crane
Aythya baeri
Baer's Duck
Vu
Aythya nyroca
Ferruginous Duck
Vu
Spilornis cheela
Crested Serpent Eagle
Rynchops albicollis
Indian Skimmer
Spizaetus cirrhatus
Changeable Hawk-Eagle
II
II
II
II
Vu
II
Reptiles
Gavialis gangeticus
Gharial
En
I
Crocodylus palustris
Marsh Mugger
Vu
I
Varanus flavescens
Golden Monitor
Python molurus
Indian Rock Python
LR:nt
HMG Protected Species
I
HMG Protected Species
I
HMG Protected Species
2. Ghodaghodi Lake System
Ghodaghodi lake system encompasses other eight lakes, namely Ojhuwa, Purba Ojhuwa, Chatiya, Baishawa,
Sunpokhari, Nakhrodi, Budhi Nakhrodi and Ramphal. It covers approximately 248 ha of land under water
coverage. The lake area is situated in Kailali district of the Seti Zone in Far Western Nepal and is bordered by 3
Village Development Committees (VDCs) namely Sandepani, Darakh and Ramsikharjhala. The people's
occupation is predominantly farming with traditional use of natural resources including grazing, fuel wood
collection and fishing. The water is also used for irrigating the surrounding cultivated lands. The total population
of the three VDCs surrounding the Ghodaghodi Lake area is 25,286 from 3,442 households. The inhabitants
dependent on lake resources are the Tharus - a disadvantaged ethnic group comprising 51.3% of the total
population of this area. Ghodaghodi Lake is of great religious value. There is a shrine to the Ghodaghodi deity
where indigenous Tharus celebrate the traditional festivals.
The Ghodaghodi lake area supports over 140 species of birds both migratory and resident, representing over 16%
of national avifauna. It is the regular breeding site for rare, the localised grey headed fishing eagle (Ichthyophaga
ichthyaetus) and the only place in Nepal where the rare comb duck (Sarkidiornis melanotus) may still breed. The
lake area supports nearly 1% of the South Asian cotton teal (Nettapus coromandelianus) population. It also
provides a good habitat for mugger crocodile, golden monitor lizard, Indian python and 3 species of turtle (redcrown roofed turtle, flap-shell turtle and Indian roofed turtle). Some 34 species of mammals and 27 species of
fishes have been recorded in this area.2 It is also important for rattan and other NTFPs. His Majesty's
2
IUCN Nepal (1998). The Ghodaghodi Tal Conservation Area: A Community Centered Management Plan. IUCN Nepal/Natural
History Society of Nepal/Ghodaghodi Kshetra Samrakshna Tatha Bikas Samiti.
26
Government of Nepal has proposed the lake system for inclusion in the list of Wetlands of International
Significance (Ramsar Site). The lake system is strategically located near the Royal Bardia National Park to the
east, Khaptad
National Park to the north, Royal Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve to the west and Dundhuwa National Park of
India to the south. The lake area also serves as a corridor or migratory route for wild animals and migratory birds.
Despite its rich natural resources, strategic location and cultural diversity, the Ghodaghodi lake area is beset with
a multitude of environmental problems. Increasing human encroachment on the shore and ridges for cultivation,
over-grazing by domestic livestock and uncontrolled human activities especially fishing, bird-hunting and
collecting aquatic resources has caused over-exploitation of lake resources.
List of Globally Significant Biodiversity in Ghodaghodi
Scientific Name
Common Name
IUCN
CITES
Felis viverrina
Fishing Cat
LR:nt
Cuon alpinus
Dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog)
Vu
II
Macaca mullata
Rhesus Macaque
LR:nt
I
Lutra lutra
Common Otter
Reference
Mammals
I
Birds
Spilornis cheela
Crested Serpent Eagle
Leptoptilos javanicus
Lesser adjutant Stork
II
Nettapus coromandelianus
Asian Cotton Teal
Ichthyophoga ichthyoetus
Grey-headed Fishing Eagle
LR:nt
Aythya nyroca
Ferruginous Duck
Vu
Anhinga melanogaster
Oriental Darter
LR:nt
Gavialis gangeticus
Gharial
En
I
Crocodylus palustris
Mugger Crocodile
Vu
I
Kachuga kachuga kachuga
Red-crowned roofed turtle
En
Varanus flavescens
Golden Monitor Lizard
Python molurus
Indian Rock Python
Vu
Approx. 1% of total Asian
population
II
Reptiles
I
LR:nt
HMG Protected Species
HMG Protected Species
3. Lumbini Wetlands
The Lumbini wetlands lie at the periphery of the World Heritage Site of Lumbini in Western Nepal. The Lumbini
wetlands have a great cultural significance related to Buddha’s life. These wetlands are particularly important for
agricultural biodiversity value. Two species of wild rice (Oryza rufipogon and O. nivara) have been reported
from here. In addition, the wetlands provide a good habitat for Sarus Crane (the tallest endangered flying bird).
The significant wetland sites, Harhawa, Gaindahawa, Jagdishpur, Agingara, Buddhi, Niglihawa, Sagrahawa, etc.
are distributed in Rupandehi and Kapilbastu districts of Western Nepal in the Lubmini Area. The Jagdishpur
reservoir, which regularly supports over 20,000 waterfowls, includes 4% of the Asian population of Ferruginous
Duck. It is proposed by HMG/N for inclusion in Ramsar list. The total area of the complex is 3,098 sq. km, while
the population numbers 118,368 from 184,655 households. Agriculture farming is the main source of income and
26
employment. The annual population growth rate is 3.2% while the total literate population of this complex is
35%. Human encroachment, over-grazing, over-fishing, bird-hunting, drainage, siltation are the major problems
in these wetland sites.
List of Globally Significant Biodiversity in Lumbini Area
Scientific Name
Common Name
IUCN
CITES
Vu
II
Reference
Mammals
Cuon alpinus
Dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog)
Lutra lutra
Common Otter
Lutrogale perspicillata
Smooth-coated Otter
Prionailurus viverrinus
Boselaphus tragocamelus
-
I
Vu
II
Fishing Cat
LR:nt
II
Blue Bull
LR:cd
-
Birds
Ciconia nigra
Black Stork
-
II
HMG Protected Species
Ciconia ciconia
White Stork
-
II
HMG Protected Species
Leptoptilus javanicus
Lesser Adjutant Stork
Vu
-
Haliaeetus leucoryphus
Pallas's Fish Eagle
Vu
II
Spilornis cheela
Crested Serpent Eagle
II
Circus melanoleucus
Pied Harrier
II
Circus marourus
Pallid Harrier
Buteo rufinus
Long-legged buzzard
Grus antigone
Sarus Crane
Althene brama
Spotted Little Owl
II
Asio flammeus
Short-eared Owl
II
Aythya nyroca
Ferruginous Duck
LR:nt
II
LR:nt
II
Vu
-
4%
of
population
total
Asian
I
I
HMG Protected Species
I
HMG Protected Species
Reptiles
Varanus flavesans
Golden Monitor Lizard
Python molurus
Indian Rock Python
Aspideretes gangeticus
Indian Soft shell Turtle
Morenia petersi
Indian-eyed turtle
I
LR:nt
4. Bees Hazar Tal
Bees Hazar Tal lies in the inner Terai valley of Central Nepal. The total area (200 ha) includes the water body,
marsh land and swampy areas, meadows and surrounding forest corridor north to the east-west highway, Khageri
river in the east, and the flood plains of the Rapti river bordering Royal Chitwan National Park, the World
Heritage Site to the south. The Bees Hazar Tal circumscribes by the four Village Development Committees and
one municipality with 99,299 population in 10,918 households. Farming is the principal occupation. Fishing is
commonly practised in the lakes.
The Bees Hazar Tal area supports 17 species of fishes, 273 species of birds. The globally threatened
species such as Lesser Adjutant Stork, Ferruginous Duck and Pallas's fish Eagle has been recorded in
this area. It is probably the only place outside protected areas where the largest number of marsh
crocodile is reported. The wetlands and forest also supports a small population of One-horned
rhinoceros; Bengal Tiger, and a number of resident spotted Leopards. It is an important corridor and
26
refuge for the movement of large mammals from the Royal Chitwan National Park between the
Churiya Hills and Mahabharat ranges. HMG/N purposes the wetland for the inclusion in Ramsar list.
Over-grazing, deforestation, siltation, eutrophication, vegetation succession, fishing, hunting are the
major threats to this wetland site.
List of Globally Significant Biodiversity in Bees Hazar Tal
Scientific Name
Common Name
IUCN
CITES
Reference
Mammals
Macaca assamensis
Assamese Macaque
II
HMG Protected Species
Melursus ursinus
Sloth Bear
Vu
I
Lutrogale persipillata
Smooth-coated Otter
Vu
II
Prionailurus viverrinus
Fishing Cat
LR.nt
II
Panthera pardus
Spotted Leopard
Panthera tigris
Bengal Tiger
En
I
HMG Protected Species
Rhinoceros unicornis
One-horned Rhinoceros
En
I
HMG Protected Species
I
Birds
Anhinga melanogaster
Oriental Darter
LR:nt
Leptoptilus javanicus
Lesser Adjutant Stork
Ichthyophoga ichthyaetus
Grey-headed Fishing Eagle
Ciconia ciconia
White Stork
II
HMG Protected Species
Ciconia nigra
Black Stork
II
HMG Protected Species
Grus antigone
Sarus Crane
Grus Grus
Common Crane
Spilornis cheela
Crested Serpent Eagle
Heliaeetus leucoryphus
Pallas's Fishing Eagle
Circus marourus
Pallied Harrier
Circus melanoleucus
Pied Harrier
II
Houbaropsis bengalensis
Bengal Florican
I
HMG Protected Species
Sypheotides indica
Lesser Florican
II
HMG Protected Species
Buceros bicornis
Great pied Hornbill
II
HMG Protected Species
Vu
LR:nt
LR:nt
II
HMG Protected Species
II
Vu
II
LR:nt
En
Reptiles
Crocodylus palustris
Marsh Crocodile
Varanus flavescens
Golden Monitor Lizard
Python molurus
Indian Rock Python
Vu
LR:nt
I
I
HMG Protected Species
I
HMG Protected Species
Abbreviations:
Vu= Vulnerable
En= Endangered
LR:nt= Lower risk near threatened
LR:cd= Lower risk conservation dependent
I = CITES Appendix I
II= Cites Appendix II
III= CITES Appendix III
HMG= His Majesty's Government
26