Bio-diversity

Charinge Community Forest which lies in the foot hills of Mahabharat Range in Dang district, is significant owing to its connectivity with Siwalik hill and its mix forest comprising of major tree species such as Sal (Shorea robusta), Saj (Terminalia tomentosa), Simal (Bombax ceiba), Sisoo (Dalbergia sisoo). Major NTFPs includes Kurilo (Asparagus recemosus), Sarpagandha (Rawolfia serpentina), Harro (Terminalia chebula), Barro (Terminilia belerica), Pakhanbed (Berginia cilliata) etc. Likewise, more than 24 species of birds including Critically Endangered White rumped vulture, Slender billed vulture, Red headed vulture etc are found in the area. Major wildlife species includes hyena, Bear, Monkey, Porcupine, Leopard, Ghoral, tortoise, wild boar, barking deer, Jackal etc. The rich biodiversity is due to interspersion of Charinge lake in Rampur VDC of Dang. The lake is equally important source of irrigation to nearly 130 ha of land belonging to 200 households. Earlier, the lake covered 5 hectares of land but due to rapid siltation, the lake is confined to nearly 3 hectares. The local effort in controlling the siltation was not enough for the conservation of this significant lake. The project proposes to conserve Charinge Lake and surrounding important block of community forest through participatory approach. The project also aims to I improve local livelihood, strengthen institutional capacity targeting women, Dalit and other ethnic minority

Nepal