https://programs.wcs.org/laos RSS feeds for WCS Lao PDR 60 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25837/Signing-Ceremony-for-Memorandum-of-Understanding--Guardians-of-Lao-Nature-between-the-Ministry-of-Agriculture-and-Environment-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-Lao-PDR.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=25837 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25837&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/25837/Signing-Ceremony-for-Memorandum-of-Understanding--Guardians-of-Lao-Nature-between-the-Ministry-of-Agriculture-and-Environment-and-the-Wildlife-Conservation-Society-Lao-PDR.aspx Dr. Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of Department of Forestry, opened with thanks “on behalf of the Government, particularly the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the European Union for its continuous assistance and support. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR for being a reliable and committed development partner. I look forward to our continued cooperation and shared success in the future.” The MoU signing was co-chaired by Dr. Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of Department of Forestry, Ambassador H.E. Mark Gallagher, the European Union and Santi Saypanya, Country Director of Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR, in the presence of representatives from Central, Provincial and District Government, the European Union Delegation, and the Wildlife Conservation Society. The Guardians of Lao Nature project is a partnership between the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Sustainable Agriculture and Environment Development Association (SAEDA) in joint efforts with the Lao government and local communities to establish strong civil society networks directly engaging in co-management of protected areas and protecting Lao biodiversity, forest ecosystems and wetlands. The European Union Ambassador H.E. Mark Gallagher emphasized “through this project, communities will be empowered to become true stewards of their environment. By strengthening civil society, enhancing co-management capacities, and fostering dialogue, Guardians of Lao Nature promotes a model where conservation, livelihoods, and local governance reinforce one another. It will also raise awareness and communicate more effectively the value of nature for the future of Lao PDR.” At the heart of the program is the Forest Development Village model, a nationally recognized framework under the new Protected Area Decree of the Forestry Law that empowers local communities living within or adjacent to conservation areas, to work directly with Protected Area and wetland authorities to protect forests, wildlife, and natural resources. “Forest Development Villages show that when communities are empowered as stewards of nature, both people and ecosystems benefit” explained Santi Saypanya, Country Director of Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR. The three year project will strengthen the role of civil society organizations in forest and natural resource management through the structure and networks of Forest Development Villages, improve participatory protected area and wetland management by enhancing the capacity of social networks to directly develop and implement village-level forest management plans and enable civil society organizations to contribute to national policy development on land and resource tenure, forest, protected area and wetland management. jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 23 Jan 2026 04:27:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25837 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24580/Celebrating-the-Successes-of-ECILL-Collaborative-Action-for-Protected-Areas.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24580 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24580&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24580/Celebrating-the-Successes-of-ECILL-Collaborative-Action-for-Protected-Areas.aspx The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, together with the European Union (EU), the Embassy of France to Lao PDR, and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) celebrated the success of the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management (ECILL) Project. The project closing ceremony, held in Vientiane, was chaired by Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, H.E. Mr Kikeo Singnavong, EU Ambassador to Lao PDR, H.E. Mr Mark Gallagher, Deputy Head of the Embassy of France to Lao PDR, Mr Alain Perrier, and attended by representatives from the Government of Laos, the EU, French Development Agency (AFD), WCS, and NPA Managers. Since its start in March 2020, the ECILL project has aimed to reduce current rates of biodiversity and habitat loss by adopting a holistic approach to landscape management. ECILL works to ensure the security of Lao PDR's forests and biodiversity, and to assist rural communities in sustainably managing their natural resources. The project is located in three priority landscapes of high biodiversity, ecosystem services, and natural capital value: (1) the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park, (2) the Integrated Ecosystem and Wildlife Management Landscape in Bolikhamxay Province, and (3) the Xe Champhone Ramsar Wetlands in Savannakhet Province. The ECILL project, worth a total of €6.8 million, has been co-funded by the European Union and the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by WCS Lao PDR in joint efforts with the Lao government and local communities. Key achievements of the ECILL project include: Improved integrated protected area management and broader system-wide improvements in management effectiveness have been achieved with over 740,000 hectares of high biodiversity habitat, including forests, wetlands protected. Strengthened policy related to biodiversity conservation, forest, and wetland protection to support institutionalizing national protected area systems in Lao PDR. Established or expanded conservation enterprises that are climate-smart, linked to conservation outcomes that deliver economic benefits for communities, including community-based tourism and environment-friendly sustainable agriculture. Speaking at the closing ceremony, H.E. Mr Kikeo Singnavong, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry said: “I thank the EU, AFD and WCS for their long-lasting partnership and efforts in contributing to these key successes to preserve Lao PDR’s unique forests and biodiversity. ECILL’s achievements are a testament of our shared commitments to conservation and biodiversity goals. We hope we can continue our positive engagement and collaboration after the ECILL project”. The Ambassador to the European Union in Lao PDR, H.E. Mr Mark Gallagher mentioned: “Over the past 5 years, the ECILL project has been instrumental in piloting a collaborative and holistic approach, to strengthen the security of the country’s forests and ecosystems, safeguarding the unique and rich biodiversity of Lao PDR, while creating sustainable opportunities for local communities.” “I would like to express profound gratitude to all our partners, including the Department of Forestry, the provincial authorities, the French Development Agency, and the Wildlife Conservation Society. Your dedication and support have been crucial to reaching our collective goals. Our gratitude also extends to the local communities and stakeholders who have embraced and participated in this initiative. Your engagement and commitment have been vital to the project's success”, added Mr Mark Gallagher. The Deputy Head of the French Embassy, Mr. Alain Perrier, emphasized that France, through the French Development Agency, would continue to support the government's efforts to ensure that Laos' forests, wetlands, and biodiverse landscapes remain a source of sustainable development for the country and its communities. The ECILL closing ceremony was preceded by a meeting engaging National Protected Areas (NPAs) managers from the 26 NPAs and NGO partners to create a collaborative action for Protected Areas towards the Mining-Forest Nexus and to strengthen partnerships. The workshop’s objective was to brainstorm on how to support the full and effective implementation of Prime Ministerial Orders no. 06 and 11 and Protected Areas policies through better oversight of mining concessions, stronger environmental impact assessments, and more robust enforcement of forestry and land laws. ““The issuance of Prime Ministerial Orders No. 06 and No. 11 establishes a robust and timely policy framework for the conservation of Lao PDR’s most biologically significant protected areas—particularly those within the Annamite Mountains, limestone karst landscapes, and high-altitude ecosystems. These areas harbor unique flora and fauna, including numerous endemic species found nowhere else in the world, thus reaffirming the vision of H.E. Kaisone Phomvihane, who described the forests of Lao PDR as ‘green gold.’ These protected landscapes may rightfully be considered the country’s most valuable ecological assets—its ‘green gold’ or natural diamonds. The Orders clearly underscore the urgent need to strengthen law enforcement, enhance governance, and fully integrate forest and environmental protection into national development strategies. The ECILL initiative has demonstrated that effective forest and environmental governance is not only feasible but also achievable when supported by strong political commitment, coordinated institutional efforts, and strategic policy coherence,” stated Dr. Somvang Phimmavong, Director General of the Department of Forestry. ECILL has supported and influenced key policy dialogues in natural resource management, providing both technical and financial contributions. By strategically engaging in high-level dialogues, ECILL has strengthened Laos’ standing in biodiversity conservation, ensuring continued political commitment beyond the ECILL project. As ECILL is closing, the established frameworks, strengthened institutional capacities, and multi-stakeholder partnerships will ensure that conservation remains a central pillar of Laos’ national agenda, paving the way for sustained environmental and economic benefits. The closing ceremony was attended by 70 people from the Department of Forestry of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Protected Area Management Sections, representative of the Government of Lao PDR at the national and subnational levels, the Embassy of France to Lao PDR, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union Delegation (EU), the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and development partners. jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 19 May 2025 06:39:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24580 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24196/Roadmap-for-operationalizing-the-new-Protected-Area-policies-in-managing-and-financing-National-Protected-Areas.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=24196 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=24196&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/24196/Roadmap-for-operationalizing-the-new-Protected-Area-policies-in-managing-and-financing-National-Protected-Areas.aspx First meeting of the Implementation Committee on the National Protected Areas Roadmap (NPA Roadmap) to outline the implementation process and establish a shared understanding. Following the endorsement of the Roadmap for National Protected Areas Management and Sustainable Financing (NPA Roadmap) on August 8, 2024, the NPA Roadmap Implementation Committee held its kick-off meeting on February 18–19 in Luang Namtha province, home to the ASEAN Heritage’s Nam Ha NPA. Chaired by Mr. Kikeo Singnavong, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry and lead authority of the NPA Roadmap, the meeting brought together more than 70 key stakeholders, including protected area managers from all Laos’ 26 NPAs and conservation partners. Also in attendance were Ms. Cécile Leroy, representing the EU Delegation to Lao PDR to Lao PDR—one of the financiers of the roadmap’s development—and Ms. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), which provides technical assistance under the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project’. The NPA Roadmap is structured as a comprehensive three-year program, requiring US$3.5 million for collective implementation. It outlines the transition process into a new policy environment aimed at strengthening Laos’ NPA system to address the following priority policy goals: (1) Diversifying and empowering actors to protect and develop Laos’ forests. This includes supporting ‘Forest Development Villages’ with improved clarity about zones and land tenure. (2) Ensuring biodiversity no-net-loss when using forests such as applying concrete methods (i.e. Mitigation Hierarchy) to work with forest users to ensure their activities cause no net-loss of biodiversity and ecosystem value. (3) Enabling conservation-compatible businesses and improving compliance. This aims at proactively improving the investment environment for enterprises that support forest activities, and to ensure businesses are compliant with regulations and agreed plans effectively. (4) Improving sustainable financing for National Protected Areas. This entails pursuing multiple complementary strategies to increase access and stability to funds and financing mechanisms. The kick-off meeting of the NPA Roadmap Implementation Committee aims to establish a shared understanding among the Board, Advisors, Secretariat members, as well as potential Implementing Partners. As the Chair, Mr. Kikeo Singnavong, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry opened with “Today’s meeting is very important for the various parties that will jointly implement this plan to discuss and understand what the four outcomes are and how each party will participate. This is key to ensure that the implementation of this management plan is highly efficient and effective and to aim for a systematic, strong, and unified management, conservation, development and implementation, including active cooperation from all relevant parties and local communities.”  During the meeting, the Protected Areas Decree (2023) and NPA Roadmap were presented, with a focus on the roadmap’s implementation plan to ensure a clear understanding among committee members, practitioners and stakeholders. Additionally, the NPA Roadmap Annual Workplan and Budget for 2025 were discussed in detail. The second day centered on the application of the Mitigation Hierarchy, identifying investment projects impacting NPAs or businesses operating within NPAs. Cecile Leroy, of the EU Delegation to Lao PDR provided opening remarks congratulating this  achievement,   “demonstrating its commitment to protect its natural assets, the EU would like to commend the government's move to protect the natural heritage with adopting bold new legislation during the few last years, especially with the adoption of the National Protected Area Decree back in June 2023, and subsequently by developing the roadmap for its implementation and financing that was adopted in August 2024, and more recently, in December, a committee was established to overview the implementation of the roadmap. So I'm very happy to see all of you this morning representing the local national protected area because your work in implementing this roadmap is really at the core of the success of Laos. Today is a great opportunity for taking stock of the recent policy development and for having a meaningful exchange on how to put this in motion.” The NPA Roadmap will enhance the Government of Lao PDR’s ownership in implementing its policies and vision in collaboration with partners and stakeholders. It serves as a strategic guide for the Protected Areas community to operationalize the PA policy agenda. Additionally, the roadmap provides a framework to align partner and stakeholder activities, ensuring consistency and synergy with national policy goals. The Government of Lao PDR therefore urges all partners and stakeholders to align their initiatives with the roadmap’s implementation. The Roadmap was developed with the technical support of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Lao PDR Program and financially supported by the European Union (EU) and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) under the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR’ (ECILL) project.   jmauer@wcs.org Thu, 20 Feb 2025 03:29:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:24196 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23737/High-Level-Dialogue-on-Biodiversity-Conservation-and-Impact-Mitigation-Policies-Held-with-Laos-National-Assembly-to-Support-Sustainable-Development.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=23737 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23737&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23737/High-Level-Dialogue-on-Biodiversity-Conservation-and-Impact-Mitigation-Policies-Held-with-Laos-National-Assembly-to-Support-Sustainable-Development.aspx The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, in cooperation with the Wildlife Conservation Society, presented the biodiversity conservation status and mitigation policies for Lao PDR’s forests and wildlife, as well as Multilateral Environmental Agreements, to National Assembly Members. This high-level meeting was chaired by H.E. Mme. Pingkham Lasasimma, President of the Economic, Technology, and Environment Committee of the National Assembly of Lao PDR and followed by her Vice President H.E. Mr. Maniso Xamounty and Dr Santi Saypanya, Country Director of WCS Lao PDR Program The meeting took place at the National Assembly of Lao PDR in Vientiane, , with the aim of enhancing Parliament members’ understanding of Laos’ forests and wildlife and on mitigation measures on biodiversity impacts caused by development or investment projects. Lao PDR is one of the most biodiverse countries in Southeast Asia, well-known for its rich biodiversity and endemic wildlife species. With 26 National Protected Areas and seven declared as ‘National Parks’, a category of higher protection, Lao PDR faces numerous challenges in the sustainable management of biodiversity and natural resource use. Main threats to conservation include climate change, illegal wildlife trade, hunting, and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation, causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. Mme. Pingkham Lasasimma, remarked: "In recent years, Lao PDR has experienced rapid economic growth marked by increased investments in large infrastructure projects such as railways, roads and mining industries, alongside the expansion of natural resources use in areas such as hydropower, agriculture and forestry. These developments have impacted land use and forest cover, converting significant portions of forested land. Recognizing the value of these natural resources, Lao PDR has committed to a path of sustainable development through its Green Growth Strategy. We have enacted policies and laws—including the National Green Growth Strategy, Land Law, Forest Law, Wildlife Law, Aquatic Animal and Fishery Law, and a robust framework for Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Environmental Assessment. These policies serve as essential tools to protect our natural resources, mitigate investment impacts, conserve biodiversity, and safeguard ecosystem services for future generations."   The meeting focused on three key objectives: Provide an in-depth overview of Lao PDR’s forest systems, and international conservation frameworks, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and its significance for Lao PDR, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Ramsar Convention, and the Lao PDR Wildlife List. Enhance Awareness and Understanding on Integrated Landscape Management, a comprehensive framework that addresses conservation and sustainable land use by considering the interconnectedness of ecosystems, communities, and economic needs within protected area and wetland landscapes aiming at achieving sustainable development goals. Enhance environmental assessments and impact mitigation in investment and development projects, emphasizing the adoption of the ‘mitigation hierarchy’ to prevent and mitigate adverse impacts on biodiversity, aiming  to engage parliamentary members in recognizing the necessity of incorporating environmental considerations into project planning and implementation, ensuring that sustainable development aligns with our national and international conservation commitments. Through this dialogue, we seek to foster responsible investment practices that contribute to the protection of our natural heritage while promoting economic growth. Ms. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Country Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Lao PDR Program, presented the Mitigation Hierarchy—a key approach to harmonizing conservation and development. “Our discussion emphasized both the value of this approach and the challenges Laos faces, such as building technical capacity, enhancing coordination among government bodies, and strengthening data access to support informed decision-making," she noted. "It was inspiring to see the interest and thoughtful engagement from National Assembly members, who hold the vital responsibility of overseeing the implementation of laws, socio-economic plans, and national projects. Their commitment to sustainable development is essential to ensuring that Laos’ growth aligns with environmental protection and social equity. Together, we can work toward a future where development not only preserves but also supports the rich biodiversity of our country, benefitting all its people sustainably.” The meeting was an opportunity for participants to share knowledge, experience, and best practices in biodiversity conservation in line with Lao PDR’s sustainable economic development for the coming years. The high-level meeting, supported by WCS Lao PDR and the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR (ECILL) project’ financed by the Agence Française de Développement and the European Union, was attended by more than 60 people from the National Assembly, the National Assembly’s Economic, Environment, and Technology Committee the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Wildlife Conservation Society. jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 01 Nov 2024 02:07:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23737 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23683/The-Lao-Government-disseminates-the-Protected-Areas-policies-nationwide-to-safeguard-biodiversity-and-secure-communities-livelihoods.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=23683 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=23683&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/23683/The-Lao-Government-disseminates-the-Protected-Areas-policies-nationwide-to-safeguard-biodiversity-and-secure-communities-livelihoods.aspx The Government of Lao PDR disseminated the new policies related to the Protected Areas (PA) Decree in the central, northern, and southern regions to ensure its successful implementation across the country. The dissemination workshops took place in Bolikhamxay, Oudomxay and Champassak provinces in presence of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Ministry of Justice, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Wildlife Conservation Society, National Parks and Protected Area Management Offices, and the ecotourism private sector. Lao PDR is covered by 26 National Protected Areas (NPAs), among these NPAs, seven of them were declared were declared ‘National Parks’, a category of higher protection such as the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park. These NPAs are home to a rich biodiversity and several endemic and threatened species. Lao PDR’s biodiversity is currently under threat due to climate change, illegal wildlife trade, hunting, and poaching coupled with high rates of deforestation causing fragmentation and loss of habitats. Adopted in June 2023, the new PA decree raises the standard, priority, and profile of Protected Areas to align with national goals and meet international standards. Communities living in surrounding villages will be engaged in the co-management of the PAs through the ‘Forest Development Village’ approach with the aim to balance benefits between people and nature. “This workshop is an important milestone for the implementation of these key legislations. The PA legal framework and policies to regulate and protect the forestry sector are set to fulfil Lao PDR’s international commitments under Multilateral Environmental Agreements.”, said Mr. Somboune Vongphachan, Deputy Director General of Department of Legislation, Ministry of Justice. Bringing together over 90 practitioners from 6 provinces in the Central region, 80 stakeholders from 4 provinces in the South region, and 100 practitioners from 8 provinces in the North region. The Protected Areas Policy Dissemination Workshops aimed to present the new PA policies and the Roadmap for National Protected Areas Management and Sustainable Financing and the NPA’s access to state funds to ensure a clear understanding and successful implementation. Speaking at the dissemination workshop for the central region, Mrs. Cécile Leroy, Programme Manager of the European Union Delegation to Lao PDR outlined “Lao is home to the world’s most charming rainforests and counts many unique landscapes including national parks and protected areas, recognized as such for their unique ecosystems and biodiversity. The national treasure must be protected, and the protection starts with awareness, and dissemination of policy to ensure appropriate implementation and law enforcement.”. The PA Roadmap will facilitate collaborative partnerships to sustainably finance the management of protected areas across Lao PDR. It will be a tool to help align the partners and stakeholders’ activities for consistency and synergy with policy goals. “WCS worked hand in hand with the Lao government, protected area practitioners, and key stakeholders to develop and disseminate this important national legislation. This decree is a big bold step for biodiversity protection in Lao PDR ensuring better management and governance of the biodiversity-rich zones in Laos. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Lao government and all PA stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation following the rule of law for the benefits of nature and people of Lao PDR”, said Mrs. Manoly Sisavanh, Deputy Country Director of WCS Lao PDR. The three PA policies dissemination workshops were attended by more than 270 people from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, National Parks and Protected Area Management Offices, relevant sectoral provincial and district offices, forest development village representatives, development partners, and the private sector. The PA Decree and NPA Roadmap were developed with the technical support of the Wildlife Conservation Society within the framework of the ‘Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape management in Lao PDR (ECILL) project’, financed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the European Union (EU). jmauer@wcs.org Mon, 14 Oct 2024 07:08:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:23683 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19409/Signing-Ceremony-for-Memorandum-of-Understanding-Nam-Et-Phou-Louey-National-Park.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=19409 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19409&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19409/Signing-Ceremony-for-Memorandum-of-Understanding-Nam-Et-Phou-Louey-National-Park.aspx On Thursday January 26th, 2023, the Department of Forestry, Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry represented by Deputy Director General, PhD. Somvang Phimmavong, Deputy Director General and the Wildlife Conservation Society represented by Country Director, PhD. Santi Saypanya signed their sixth Memorandum of Understanding for Nam Et – Phou Louey National Park Management at the Provincial Finance Office in Luang Prabang in front of government officials from Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry, Provincial offices and WCS staff. With an area of 401,720 hectares, Nam Et - Phou Louey National Park is the largest of Laos’ protected areas, covering 10 districts and three provinces. Nam Et - Phou Louey National Park is home to many critical species and diverse carnivore species with at least four felid species (Clouded Leopard Neofelis nebulosa, Asian Golden Cat Catopuma temminckii, Marbled Cat Pardofelis marmorata, and Leopard Cat Prionailurus bengalensis), an Endangered wild dog species (Dhole Cuon alpinus), and highest density of two bear species (Asiatic Black Bear Ursus thibetanus and Sun Bear Helarctos malayanus). Nam Et Phou Louey National Park is home to more than 300 bird species, and one of the largest populations of a Critically Endangered species of gibbons (Northern White- cheeked Gibbon Nomascus leucogeny) , which can only be found in Vietnam and Lao PDR. The MoU signing is key to the continued collaboration and protection of Nam Et – Phou Louey National Park to jointly implement the approved 10-year Management Plan and 5-year Action Plan. Nam Et Phou Louey National Park was established in 1993. Its protection started in 2003 with the Wildlife Conservation Society began collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and by 2006 the first Totally Protected Zone was established. In 2007, the first ranger substation was built, and outreach and livelihood support programs started; in 2010, the first tourism product, the Nam Nern Night Safari, was launched; and in 2019 Nam Et Phou Louey National Park was declared the first National Park of Lao PDR by the Prime Minister. The Nam Et Phou Louey National Park was created to manage and protect the environment, forest, forest resources, watershed, aquatic and wildlife species; to conserve the natural beauty, historical artifacts, culture for recreational use, and scientific research to contributing to the improvement of livelihoods of the peoples and the socio-economic development through green and sustainable growth. Nam Et - Phou Louey National Park is sustainably administered and collaborates with the guardian villages of the landscape, a supportive guardian villages population aware and convinced of the interest of the park which receive equitable benefits from sustainable tourism and other income streams generated by the park. Nam Et - Phou Louey National Park continues to provide a growing contribution to the country's socio economic, cultural development and to global biodiversity. WCS would like to thank all our donors who helped to make this possible; the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union, IUCN SOS, US Bureau of International Narcotics & Law Enforcement, US Fish and Wildlife, World Bank, and the Darwin Initiative. jmauer@wcs.org Thu, 26 Jan 2023 03:26:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19409 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19410/Ecosystem-Conservation-through-Integrated-Landscape-Management-in-Lao-PDR-ECILL-2nd-Steering-Committee.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=19410 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19410&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19410/Ecosystem-Conservation-through-Integrated-Landscape-Management-in-Lao-PDR-ECILL-2nd-Steering-Committee.aspx On January 13th 2022, 36 representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment,Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union (EU) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) gathered to review the achievements and challenges met by the Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR (ECILL). “WCS has been working in Laos since the 1980s when they first helped our government survey biodiversity and set up the National Biodiversity Conservation Protected Area system for Laos. WCS Laos was official established in 1993, since then WCS has successfully implemented projects across Laos with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and Local government agencies. Today, I would like to thank the EU, AFD, WCS and all my colleagues for the collaboration and hard work that has been gone into protecting our wildlife and our country’s natural resources. We have made a lot of progress, but there is still a lot to be done, especially in light of post- COVID economy recovery.” Dr. Thatheva Saphangthong, Deputy Director General of Department of Agriculture Land and Management, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. ECILL works to ensure the security of Lao PDR forests and biodiversity and assist rural poor in sustainably managing their natural resources by promoting an integrated landscape approach and green growth model. Wildlife friendly livelihood activities such as ecotourism, shade grown coffee, medicinal cardamom, bee keeping, organic farming and bamboo products have provided livelihoods to many surrounding protected areas. At least 3,000 households in 72 forest-dependent communities benefit from an increase in household revenue within the targeted high biodiversity landscapes. These are Nam Et– Phou Louey National Park, Houaphan province, Phou Sithone Endangered Species Conservation Area and Nam Kading National Protected Area in Bolikhamxay province, and the Xe Champhone Ramsar Wetland Complex in Savannakhet province. Vincent Vire, Head of Cooperation from the Delegation of the European Union said in his opening remarks: “The degradation of ecosystems and decline of biodiversity worldwide exacerbate climate change and threaten the natural processes that protect human health and provide clean air, water and food. The European Union is deeply committed to reverse the degradation of ecosystems and has a comprehensive, ambitious and long-term plan to protect nature. Integrated Landscape Management is integral to the EU’s ambitious post-2020 biodiversity and food systems agendas. ECILL in Laos is a good practice example of how biodiversity conservation is advantageous for local communities and villages for the protection of their natural environment and for the increase of their livelihoods.” AFD underlined the importance of the continuity and sustainability of these good results achieved by the project, particularly with the involvement and collaboration of governmental partners. The monitoring activities in these landscapes have validated the rich biodiversity these areas hold and have highlighted the importance of protecting them against the drivers of ecological change. Participatory community consultations conducted in Year 2 resulted in improved land-use planning and land-use zoning conducted with the communities across more than 70 villages. Based on these, 58 community conservation agreements and five newly established fish conservation zones were created to improve user rights of communities. Community Conservation Agreements result from the joint efforts of community and local government and form the basis for law enforcement actions. They directly address threats to key species, such as hunting and snaring, and threats to forests such as clearance for agriculture outside of agreed zones. The ECILL program is funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and the European Union (EU), implemented by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in coordination with the Lao government and local communities. Moreover, the project engages with Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the private sector with a focus on responsible investments in agriculture, forestry, and hydropower development with a view to mitigate the potential environmental impacts. ECILL has also provided continued support to the Government of Lao PDR in strengthening policy relating to forest and wetland protection to support the institutionalization of national protected area systems in Lao PDR. jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 13 Jan 2023 03:42:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19410 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19412/Stories-from-the-Field-Guardian-Village-of-Phou-Sithone-Endangered-Species-Conservation-Area.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=19412 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=19412&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/19412/Stories-from-the-Field-Guardian-Village-of-Phou-Sithone-Endangered-Species-Conservation-Area.aspx “Many species are thriving as indicated by the sound of the birds and by the song of gibbons I can hear in the morning even from my house.” Mrs. Maipom Saysomphone, 28 years old, was born in Meungcham village, Xaychamphone District of Bolikhamxay. She is married to Mr. Bounsing and they have two sons, 9 and 7 years old. The family of four lives in her husband’s village, Sopkhone. She first became involved in The Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Lao PDR (ECILL) project when her village became a Guardian village of Phou Sithone Endangered Species Conservation Area. GUARDIAN VILLAGES Guardian Villages have a direct impact on Protected Areas and are in turn impacted by the Protected Area management decisions. Guardian Villages’ are the gatekeepers of the Protected Area, and as such, their activities can either contribute to the integrity of the Protected Area or present a threat to the biodiversity of the Protected Area. It is thus in the interests of the Protected Area management to develop a relationship of mutual cooperation and respect with Guardian Village’s, ultimately aiming for a strong co-management and developmental support relationship. “We will help to protect the forest, we won’t go hunting or damage resources, because the conservation of Phou Sithone brings us incentives and support our livelihoods.” The family owns 0.5 hectares of paddies and they cultivated the upland fields to complement their annual rice consumption needs (about 1.5 tons in total). They raise animals: 1 buffalo, 2 pigs and 10 chickens. Additional income was provided from the selling of wild nuts (Mak Ko) collected in forest, which generates about US$100 per year. The family house was made of bamboo with a roof constructed from palms, which is an indicator of poverty. VILLAGE INCENTIVE FUNDED ACTIVITIES With support from the ECILL project, the family received a revolving fund to develop handicrafts through the women’s groups. The family received about 875,000kip (US$80 in 2020) to develop a small handicraft business, which is to be reimbursed after 3 years without interest.  Mrs. Maipom invested in small equipment and materials to make sticky rice containers (“tip khao”) with the support from the program staff. The products are sold at the District center and to middlemen for resale. To date, the production and value chain has successfully developed and the annual income generated is about 25 Million kip per year, almost US$2,000$ per year. For the family this is an extremely significant increase to the family’s livelihood and annual revenue.  IMPACT OF INCREASED LIVELIHOOD With the increase of annual income, almost $2,000 per year, they have been able to purchase materials and improved their home. Their walls are now sturdy plank wood and the palm roof has been replaced with metal sheets. They have also increased their area of paddy field area by 0.2 hectors. Increasing their paddy field has allowed them to reduce the time spent in the uplands and stopped the use of slash and burn methods. “Thanks to the selling of handicraft, we can send our children to school, have money to go to hospital and for healthcare, make the family's life better.” The impact on women is that “by stopping slash and burn for upland farming, I have enough time for working at home, unlike in the past when I had to overnight on the upland farm, and clearing weeds is a very difficult life. There was no time to socialize and to be creative with friends. Now there is more time at home with family.” Mrs. Maipom proposed to the project to provide more equipment and organize a study tour, which are now being discussed to further support livelihoods. IMPACT ON CONSERVATION The Village Incentive Fund provides support to livelihoods that ultimately impacts conservation positively. Thanks to the benefits and improvement of livelihoods. If the program had not protected the Phou Sithone ESCA, villagers would have deteriorated the forests and continued to hunt wildlife. Some species would have gone extinct already. The ECILL program is a partnership between Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union (EU) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in joint efforts with the Lao government and local communities to protect the Lao PDR’s unique biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources. This work is carried out in key landscapes in Lao PDR such as the Xe Champhone Ramsar Wetland Complex in Savannakhet Province, Nam Kading National Protected Area and Phou Sithone Endangered Species Conservation Area in Bolikhamxay Province, and Nam Et-Phou Louey National Park. jmauer@wcs.org Fri, 02 Dec 2022 07:11:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:19412 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/1100/Plenty-of-forests-but-no-species-to-call-them-home.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=1100 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1100&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/1100/Plenty-of-forests-but-no-species-to-call-them-home.aspx Plenty of forests but no species to call them home Vientiane Times, July 17, 2013 By Keoxomphou Sakdavong Laos is rich in natural resources and biodiversity, yet there is only the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Protected Area (NEPL-NPA) which provides a suitable home for the country's many endangered species. NEPL-NPA is located across the three northern provinces of Huaphan, Luang Prabang and Xieng Khuang. It has a total area of 4,200 sq km and features 129 villages in eight districts. The NPA is home to a number of endangered species, including the rare Indochinese tiger. At least nine tigers live in Nam Et-Phou Louey, according to the area Deputy Head, Mr Bouathong Xayavong. Laos has long been recognised as one of several countries around the world with thick forest cover, providing one of the best environments in the world for a variety of plants, wildlife and aquatic species to thrive. At an environmental conference at Vientiane's National Culture Hall in 2011, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Dr Ty Phommasak, said the Lao forests were a unique place, home to more than 8,100 flower varieties, 100 large mammal species, 166 reptile and amphibian species, 90 types of bat and more than 700 species of bird. The Lao government has approved 24 national forest protected areas around the country to conserve biodiversity, wildlife, aquatic species and trees, and each year the country celebrates World Wildlife Conservation Day on July 13. The national forest protected areas cover about 4 million hectares of land. Apart from this, there are a further 66 areas protected at a provincial level, covering 600,000ha, and 143 forest areas protected at a district level on an area of 400,000ha. But despite nearly 5 million hectares of land being marked as protected areas, forest cover in Laos has declined dramatically over the years. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, forest cover dropped from 64 percent of the entire country in 1960 to 47.2 percent by 1992, and was down to 41 percent in 2001. The Lao government aims to boost forest cover back to 65 percent by 2015 and 70 percent by 2020. Relevant government ministries and international organisations, including the Wildlife Conservation Society and the World Bank, have recognised Nam Et-Phou Louey as one of the last homes of a number of endangered species, the Indochinese tiger in particular. The tigers' main food is meat such as pig, deer, monkey, gaur, goat and water buffalo. If the forest does not continue to have a great deal of biodiversity and hence food sources for the tiger, the unique species will not last in Nam Et-Phou Louey. Out of 24 national forest protected areas, Nam Et-Phou Louey is the only one to play host to tigers. That alone demonstrates how healthy the area's ecosystem is – tigers have chosen Nam Et-Phou Louey to be their home, rather than any of the other protected areas lying right across the country, north to south. The tigers are sending a message to the concerned ministries; more than 20 protected areas in Laos are not rich enough in natural resources, and their ecosystems are not doing as well as Nam Et-Phou Louey. To preserve endangered species in Laos and ensure the country provides the best possible home to its rare tiger population and the other 100 mammal species originally from here, Nam Et-Phou Louey should be held up as a model for conserving biodiversity and forestry. If Nam Et-Phou Louey was not part of active conservation efforts there would be no tigers left in Laos, and according to a report from the World Bank's Global Environment Facility, the area has biological significance at a global, national and local level. The lessons learnt from Nam Et-Phou Louey should be shared with authorities responsible for other forest protected areas across the country, and the Forestry Law needs to be strictly upheld. Article 18 of the law says forest protected areas are set aside to protect plants, animals and anything else in the forest which may have value for history, culture, tourism, the environment or education purposes. If the law and its definition of a protected area are followed strictly, Laos and its 24 national protected areas will remain a safe home for endangered species, which will be able to thrive in the country forever more. "Nam Et-Phou Louey should be held up as a model for conserving biodiversity and forestry" pEshoo@wcs.org Wed, 31 Jul 2013 04:39:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1100 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/1046/Hunting-without-a-catch.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=1046 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1046&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/1046/Hunting-without-a-catch.aspx Manoeuvring a long-tail boat with a bamboo stick, a Khmu boatman, Mr Khounthone, pointed his headlight left and right, up and down to spot wildlife along the Nam Nern River. He was tracing the bushes and trees like a painter, colouring silhouettes on a grey canvas made by the pale moonlight. Everyone in the boat was silent, while gripping his or her flashlight and holding its switch like the trigger of a gun, ready to shoot. The only sounds came from birds and cicadas, and the cascading water as it crashed into rocks and mangroves. A Khmu tour boatman, Mr Khounthone, manoeuvres a traditional long-tail boat with a thin bamboo stick along the Nam Nern River. The boat is loaded with portable chairs, cooking utensils and life vests for the night camp and safari. Suddenly, Mr Khounthone rocked the boat and whispered, “Linglom!” as he spotted a slow loris on a tree branch. All three passengers switched on their flashlights and shone their beam in the headlight's direction to see the wild animal. The 35-year-old boatman admitted that he used to hunt wildlife and fish in the river for food many years ago – the reason for his expertise in boating and tracking animals at night. “I was a hunter in the past but not in prohibited areas. We only hunted animals in the areas allowed, such as in Viengthong district,” he told Vientiane Times . Fishing and hunting wildlife has been illegal within the Nam Et-Phou Louey National Protected Area (NEPL-NPA) since its establishment in 1993, and is being supported by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). The WCS has been funded by the World Bank since March this year in a bid to sustain the NEPL-NPA, which has a total area of 4,200 square kilometres covering the provinces of Huaphan, Luang Prabang and Xieng Khuang. Mr Khamkeo Syxaiyakhamthor of the WCS, and NEPL-NPA project assistant, said that of the total land area, 3,000 square kilometres are totally protected areas, where hunting and fishing around the Nam Nern River and merely entering the core zone without authorisation such as through an eco-tour are prohibited by law. The remaining 1,200 square kilometres may be used for sustainable agriculture, and this is w here 129 villages with 54,315 inhabitants are to be found. Mr Khounthone joined the NEPL-NPA eco-tour project at the beginning of the programme, four years ago, in Huameuang district, along with other villagers from Ban Son Koua. He belongs to the boat group, one of several groups that specialise in related services such as tour guides, cooking, camping and handicrafts. Most of the tour fees go directly to the village development fund, which is shared equally by the 14 villages located within the area covered by the Nam Nern River eco-tour project, Mr Khamkeo said. Mr Khounthone said he realised they could earn money without actually catching wildlife, instead using their hunting skills to promote tourism. Through the eco-tours, he earns 40,000 kip per day, aside from the 80,000 kip he gets for the use of his boat, excluding fuel costs. “It's not much money but at least we have some extra income. It somehow helps us to provide for our daily needs. If we didn't do this, we would just stay at home or on our farm,” he said. The main source of income for Mr Khounthone and all the other members of the tour service groups is their sweetcorn crop. The village can only plant the crop once a year because the soil cannot hold much water and its quality degrades every two years, explained local tour guide Mr Khenthong Keolavong when giving an orientation before the start of the eco-tour. He said each family in the village earns an average of 15 million to 16 million kip per year from the sweetcorn they grow. “We can only grow sweetcorn because of the mountainous terrain,” he said, standing near the village's spirit house against a backdrop of green hills planted with sweetcorn. Mr Khenthong also joined the boat tour to spot for wildlife along the Nam Nern River. Each boat has two crew members, with one at either end. The one at the back operates the engine. According to Mr Khounthone, there were 10 boats at the beginning of the project, but now there are only five boats available for tours. Vientiane Times, July 1, 2013 Three of the boatmen were fired after they were caught fishing in the area connecting to the totally protected zone more than once, he said. On their first offence, the boatmen were warned and suspended from service for a year. “It was not only the boatmen who were penalised for their violations, but also every member of the villages because money was deducted from the village fund,” Mr Khounthone said. “This year, someone was caught fishing in the totally protected area so now our village fund is almost depleted,” he said with a wry smirk. Lorie Ann Cascaro of MindaNews is one of the fellows of the FK Norway (Fredskorpset) exchange programme in partnership with the Vietnam Forum of Environmental Journalists. She's currently in Laos and hosted by the Vientiane Times.     By Lorie Ann Cascaro  (Latest Update June 29 , 2013) pEshoo@wcs.org Sun, 30 Jun 2013 22:41:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1046 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/878/GEF-funding-to-support-model-management-practices-in-Nam-Et-Phou-Louey-NPA.aspx#Comments 0 https://programs.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=6014&ModuleID=11805&ArticleID=878 https://programs.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=878&PortalID=118&TabID=6014 https://programs.wcs.org/laos/Admin-Plus/News-Manager/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/878/GEF-funding-to-support-model-management-practices-in-Nam-Et-Phou-Louey-NPA.aspx Increasing the effectiveness of protected area (PA) management in Laos, as well as elsewhere in Asia, requires the development of specialized fields of expertise through proven models of PA management. Although some expertise, such as in law enforcement, has been relatively well-practiced for some time, recent advances in systematic collation and analyses of spatial and trend data on threats and enforcement effort through a Management Information System (MIST) have expanded the ability of PAs to critically assess and adapt enforcement interventions. At the same time, other fields of PA expertise, such as community outreach, ecotourism that is linked to conservation outcomes, and PA financing contributions through Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) are still in the very early stages of model development.  With support from the World Bank and GEF financing, Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) seeks to build upon the existing protected area management capacity within NEPL, which has heavily invested in developing an effective Enforcement Section (currently at 60 per cent capacity) and a rigorous Biological Monitoring Section, which are focused on effective protection of the NPA’s globally important tiger population as well as systematic monitoring to measure change in tiger and prey populations as a result of management. But there are still only intermittent activities by the Conservation Outreach Section, a nascent Ecotourism Section, and no long-term financing for the NPA. GEF funding will be critical for strengthening key areas of PA management, namely incorporating wildlife research and monitoring results into conservation outreach and land use planning as well as supporting the establishment of financing mechanisms through ecotourism and REDD activities, based upon a “Business Plan for Ecotourism in Nam Et-Phou Louey National Protected Area, Lao PDR” prepared by the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley and WCS’s extensive experience with REDD in protected areas in Cambodia and Madagascar. The development of this robust suite of interventions will provide models for PA management for Laos that stem from WCS field experience in the NEPL NPA, as well as from GEF-supported protected area activities in Bolikhamxay, in developing functioning protected area management bodies supported by cutting-edge financing instruments that have the potential to contribute to the long-term financial sustainability of NPAs. Wed, 25 Jul 2012 22:35:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:878