Bhutan

Implementation of Bhutan Human-Wildlife Conflict Management Strategy

Bhutan has gained international recognition for its organized conservation efforts, including the establishment of an extensive network of protected areas, and interconnecting biological corridors. With the establishment of network of protected areas, new challenges have surfaced which inevitably has sparked conflicts between people and wildlife, and have gained momentum over the years. The Nature Conservation Division (NCD) of the Royal Government with support from UNDP and other partners such as World Wildlife Fund, Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation took the initiative to develop a plan to address human-wildlife conflicts in the10^th Five-Year Plan (2008 - 2013). The strategy's overall approach is to address human-wildlife conflicts through a comprehensive consideration of social, economical and ecological factors in order to achieve lasting solutions.

The project aims at piloting initiatives to combat human- wildlife conflicts and testing compensation schemes for the loss of crop and livestock through the following interventions.

• Improving rural livelihood through sustainable utilization of natural resources.
• Conserving endangered top carnivores by devolving livestock compensation to the farmers.
• Combating rural crop damage and alleviate poverty.

UNDAF Outcome	1: By 2012, opportunities for generation of income and employment increased in targeted poor areas. 5: By 2012, national capacity for environmental sustainability and disaster management strengthened.
CT Outcome	2.2.2; 5.4.2;
CT Output	1.2: Food security among small holder farmers and other vulnerable groups in targeted rural areas enhanced. 5.4: Conservation of bio-diversity and ecosystems enhanced
Project Duration	January 2009 - December 2010
Budget Outlay	US$ 106,000
Link to Workplan	Click on the icon to download