towards project snow leopard - Nature Conservation Foundation

74 • Appendix 1
existing PAs have wildlife values that may need to be managed, it is felt that all forest
officers should undergo training in wildlife management.
2.12. All stake-holders to be trained including army and para-military forces: Other stakeholders
such as the defence forces often have direct control over some ecologically meaningful
sites. It is thus important to train them in basics of wildlife monitoring, protection and
care.
2.13. Promoting conservation education through zoos: Zoological gardens are powerful conservation
tools for a cross-section of society. There is a lack of zoos that showcase high-altitude
wildlife in particular. Having well-stocked and managed specialized zoos can be useful for
the state.
2.14. Formulate alpine pasture/rangeland management strategies: As noted in point 1.3.2 above,
there is a strong need to have an effective policy for pasture management so that the
concerns of both the herders and conservationists can be addressed.
3. Expectations of the State Forest Department From Project Snow Leopard
It is expected that the PSL incorporates the strategies outlined in Section 2 above. Further, some
points are highlighted below:
3.1. Effective high altitude wildlife conservation: Long-term conservation of the snow leopard
and associate species: Project Snow Leopard should lead to measurable improvement in the
status of wildlife populations and their habitats.
3.1.1. Administrative, financial, and others: PSL should facilitate the formulation of well
informed, scientific management plans and micro-plans. Lack of resources has been
identified as a major constraint and it is hoped that the PSL will provide adequate
resources for the formulation and implementation of these plans.
3.1.2. Maintain and restore biodiversity status: The PSL should focus on maintaining the
wildlife values in good biodiversity areas, while those areas that have been degraded
should be restored.
3.1.3. Infrastructure and resources: PSL needs to ensure timely formulation of management
strategies, and provisioning and timely release of funds for the necessary infrastructure,
adequate equipment and field-gear.
3.2. Research, monitoring and information generation: Information on species, ecological
communities and ecosystems are lacking at present and it is hoped that the PSL will help
bridge this gap.
3.2.1. Training/ equipment related to immobilization, capture and handling of wildlife:
Particular training is needed in the capture and translocation of problem animals and
for treatment of wildlife diseases.