Bio-diversity

The Thada Forest Ecosystem represents Middle Mountains (Hills) zone, the ecological zone not well represented amongst the country`s national parks or protected area system of Nepal. It is a diverse landscape of cultural and ecological importance at both local and regional scales. The ecosystem represents an important Block of forest with Thada lake providing important juxtaposition for species abundance. It also represents a critical link to the Greater Himalayan Landscape and a prime area for establishment of a biodiversity conservation landscape corridor. This area is rich in bio-diversity, home to a variety of endangered wildlife like wild animals include leopard, Bear, Dear, Ghoral, Red monkeys, Hill monkeys, etc and birds include Kalij pheasant and golden dove. The area is also rich in NTFP and MAPs which include Pakhanbet, Kammari, Paanch Aule, Bhutcase, Tite, Shikari Lahara, Gujargano, Kurilo, Amaro, Pipala, Jalpureni, Amala, Harro, Katus, Rithha. Aside from its biological significance, the area is also important for a number of reason First, this proposed area is important for watershed management southern parts to provide water for a number of important uses, including drinking and irrigation. Second, this area is significant for Hindu religions. The Malla period temple is worshipped during Dashain and thousands pay homage during the festival. Third, many people solely depend on this forest eco-system for the sustainable livelihoods of the locals. This ecosystem is important for a variety of resources to support their livelihoods. Locals also rely on to harvest timber, produce charcoal, and collect fuel wood and harvest fodder, fruits, medicinal and aromatic plants, fibre and various craft and construction materials. It is also used as a dry-season grazing area for livestock. Considering its significance, the project proposed to conserve the forest and mountain ecosystem by awaring local people, building their capacity, promoting income generation activities and alternative energy technology. .

Nepal