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In contrast to the deforestation that exists throughout most of Nepal,
the Kangchenjunga valley contains impressive forests of juniper, oak, rhododendron
and birch, containing a rich biodiversity that is essential habitat for the protection
and promotion of rare and endangered species. However, this once pristine area is
facing a number of threats to its preservation.
The local people's dependence on forests to meet cooking fodder and construction needs throughout the conservation area has a continuous effect. The forests closest to Ghunsa are beginning to show signs of human related disturbance. Some of the alpine pastures are already highly degraded from overgrazing, and further abused by organized trekking groups who use them as campgrounds. The additional effect of increasing tourism, especially in critical high altitude areas is of particular concern considering the lack of infrastructure and trained personnel required to effectively manage the influx of people to a previously sparsely populated region.
The plundering of the forests for medicinal herbs by outside contractors appears
it will
continue unabated until the supplies are eventually depleted. The
entire plant, including the root, is considered valuable. Therefore everything is
removed. The Dept. of Forestry appears unwilling to acknowledge what is going on, or
take steps to control it. 'Swertia chirata' is believed to be an effective
anti-malarial. Large profits are anticipated when foreign pharmaceutical companies
make the harvesting worthwhile. Unfortunately, the village development committees in
villages where the harvesting takes place have little influence in the process of
controlling the gathering of the plant, or ensuring that any profits are shared at a
local level. Slash and burn agriculture is also a common practice throughout the
area, with the time span decreasing significantly between cropping.
Tree Planting
Beginning in 1992, the Kanchenjunga School Project has incorporated tree planting and environmental education programs into most of their trips to the Kangchenjunga region. Currently, indigenous species, such as spruce, fir, hemlock and rhododendron, have been planted.
The method is simple, but tediously slow and labor intensive. First, school
students and teachers collect small seeds from the forest floor. Then, a designated
nursery-man constructs a temporary seedling nursery away from the general traffic of
village life, but close to a reliable water source. The seeds are placed in potted
soil under a protective plastic tarp, surrounded by makeshift fencing, that helps
provide protection from inadvertent trampling. During the monsoon, slowly these
seedlings are encouraged to germinate with a regular program of watering.
Often the key to success is the correct timing of the transplantation phase of the seedlings into the forest. This is because the fragile plants need to have had sufficient time to develop an adequate root system before being disturbed, yet given sufficient time in the new location to recover before facing the rigors of winter. Optimally placed amongst larger trees that afford protection, yet placed where sufficient sun will penetrate the seedlings are more likely to thrive than if left alone to the randomness of nature mingled with the effects of Man. The methods of learning depend largely on demonstration followed by practice of the methods described.
Future projects include apple and orange orchards at lower elevations as a nutritional supplement and a potential source of income. Help is also sought from volunteers to build a permanent seed nursery.
| Home | Past Projects: - Overview - Ghunsa - Folay - Reforestation - HIV - Water & Power | Current Projects | |
