In Nepal, LI-BIRD (Local Initiatives for Biodiversity, Research and Development) and Wetland Friends of Nepal (WFN) coordinated four separate awareness and outreach events organized to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day and the International Day for Biological Diversity 2008. These events were carried out between 11-25 May 2008 in Phewa, Begnas and Khaste lakes of Pokhara Valley. The extension materials for the events were provided by CBD and UNEP/AEWA Secretariat
An orientation program, wetland walk and discussion event were successfully performed among representatives of the Institute of Forestry, Biodiversity Conservation and Research Forum, Self Help Environment Awareness Club and Bird Conservation Nepal Pokhara Branch. Dr. Keshab D Awasthi, Dean of Institute of Forestry, Raj Kumar Koirala, As. Campus Chief of the Institute of Forestry, and Gandhiv Kafle of the Ecosystem and Health Services Unit of LI-BIRD, briefed on the importance of both conservation days. The wetland condition of Phewa Lake was assessed using a protocol developed by LI-BIRD and WFN. Similarly, the emerging issues in farming practices at watershed of Phewa lake, their impacts on terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity and possible conservation interventions were documented using the protocols based on field observation and community interaction. The importance of Phewa lake for migratory waterbirds was discussed and emerging threats to waterbirds were assessed.
Moreover, three more events were organized among students and local communities for generating awareness on the importance of wetlands and waterbird conservation, ultimately the overall biodiversity conservation.
For more information, please contact: Gandhiv Kafle
Local Initiatives for Biodiversity, Research and Development (LI-BIRD)
P.O. Box 324, Pokhara, Kaski, Nepal