BNC CONSERVATION PROJECT (2018-2021)
PROJECT OVERVIEW / RATIONALE
With the onset of democracy in Bhutan in 2008, socio-economic development activities of the nation have accelerated. To be proactive in ensuring a safe future for the BNC and to use them as ambassadors for the conservation of other species and their habitats, during the next three years, RSPN and ICF wish to undertake a series of activities in each of the three regions where cranes spend their winter. Under the species based conservation program of RSPN, the conservation of two flagship species in the country, White bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) and BNC, are prioritized. Subsequently, a memorandum of understanding was signed between RSPN and the Department of Forest and Park Services to enhance knowledge, identify and implement appropriate conservation measures of the two species and their habitats. The MoU further stated to promote biodiversity and ecosystem conservation through collaboration in the field of species and habitat, water resource management and research between participants.
OBJECTIVE/GOALS
To increase foraging grounds of BNC in Bumdeling through restoration of degraded paddy fields.
- To reduce local threats to BNC
- Enhance knowledge on wintering BNC ecology in Bhutan
- To promote crane conducive livelihood activities of the local communities
- Promote community engagement in BNC conservation
PROJECT SITE
- Phobjikha
- Bumthang
- Trashiyangtse
DONOR
PROJECT IMPLEMENTING PARTNERS
Expected Outcome:
- Additional foraging grounds for BNC available and used by the cranes.
- Dog population increase controlled (Phobjikha, Bumdeling and Bumthang).
- Reduction of Crane casualties due to electric lines.
- Appropriate interventions/recommendations for BNC conservation and protection identified from the BNC ecology study
- Awareness on BNC generated among community and stakeholders in Phobjikha and Bumthang and improved cooperation and harmonization of BNC conservation among the habitat areas.
- Preliminary idea on waste management for Phobjikha framed through consultation meetings.
- Community participation in BNC conservation improved in Bumthang and Bumdeling
BE A PART OF MISSION
Given the current scenario of supporting Black-necked Crane conservation program in the country through project tied funding, RSPN wishes to establish an endowment fund which would ensure the sustainability of the conservation program and long term impact. To constantly carry out the conservation work for BNC and their habitat, RSPN has developed a 5 year action plan in consultation with all the stakeholders. This would require an estimated amount of US $ 100,000 annually, and can only be possible with an endowment fund of US $ 2 million at 5% annual investment interest. So far, we have raised US $ 30,000 through individual and institutional donors.
At RSPN, we believe a single grain of sand can tip the scale. You can be the grain that tips the scale towards improved environmental conditions and conservation efforts in Bhutan. RSPN has set a target to raise US$ 1.5 million for next 10 years.