My VOLUNTEERING PROJECT

Eight weeks of volunteering work with Projects Abroad under their Conservation and Environment program.

In short, Projects Abroad works in partnership with the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) with the overall aim to enhance and preserve Biodiversity within the Ghandruk region (one of the 7 Unit Conservation Offices - UCO). Furthermore, the management authority of this significant area is undertaken by the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC).

As illustrated in these NTNC maps, the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) is the largest protected area of Nepal. Its biogeography shapes the wide range of landuse/covers founded across the region. Diverse cultures and associated traditions and dialects complete this colorful environment. DIVERSITY definitively characterize the region and provide the increasing number of visitors with a unique travel experience. 

Tourism Industry can be favorable for social development when it occurs in a sustainable manner. This is why, in order to "achieve sustained balance between nature conservation and socio-economic improvement in the (ACA), thereby assist National Trust for Nature Conservation in achieving its goal," three objectives are identified by the ACAP:

• Conserve the natural resources of ACA for the benefit of present and future generations.
• Bring sustainable social and economic development to the local people.
• Develop tourism in such a way that it will have minimum negative impact on the natural, socio-cultural and economic environments.

The spectacular natural beauty of this region is composed of diverse but also, of fragile ecosystems. When investing in Biodiversity preservation and conservation, the resulting impact on local communities living from and within those environments is often discarded. In this regard, not only the inhabitants continue to live and access the natural resources within the Ghandruk region, in addition, the ACA project support and improve the quality of life of the local people. ACAP recognizes that effective conservation of natural resources cannot be realized without the active participation of the local communities in all stages of development from planning to implementation and evaluation.

In the same line of thought, the overall aim of Projects Abroad in the Ghandruk region is to enhance and preserve biodiversity through a combination of scientific research and community engagement. This is where I will be contributing. 

As a volunteer on this Conservation and Environment Project, I might get involved in a wide variety of activities such as:

• Wildlife Research: As with any conservation area it is vital to monitor the populations of wild animals. This is done through various census techniques and using camera traps. Strong emphasis is placed on researching threatened and endangered species.
• Natural Resource Management: Afforestation, soil and water conservation, and building and maintaining nursery projects are vital for conservation.
• Alternative Energy Projects: We work with remote villages to help manage their impact on their local environment through projects such as solar, micro-hydro, and biogas power supplies and improved cooking stoves.
• Community Infrastructure Development: We assist with sanitation and drainage programs which help reduce human conflict with the natural environment.
• Conservation Education: Running workshops and events in the local community.
• Agriculture and Livestock Development: Reducing wildlife conflict with humans, anti–poaching, and seed management are all programs that need to be managed so that villages in these areas can sustain themselves without compromising the local flora and fauna.

More in depth details in regards to the tasks I will be fulfilling will be provided in the coming months based on current needs and project progress.

to be continued...