TITLE:
Status of Wetland in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal
AUTHORS:
Saroj Panthi, Maheshwar Dhakal, Sher Singh Thagunna, Barna Bahadur Thapa
KEYWORDS:
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, High Altitude, Lake, Wetland
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Ecology,
Vol.4 No.5,
April
17,
2014
ABSTRACT:
Wetland means the surface of the earth that is permanently or seasonally
or partially covered with water. Wetlands are most productive areas for
biodiversity and local livelihood support. Nepal ratified Ramsar convention in
1987 and started to include the wetland in Ramsar site and till now nine
wetland sites are included in Ramsar site. There are still lacking systematic
research and conservation approach for these wetlands; therefore, our study
attempted to assess the status of wetlands in the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve,
Nepal; and explored threats and conservation challenges. We prepared list of
streams and lakes and collected detail information regarding area, district,
block, elevation and cultural as well as ecological importance of lakes. We
recorded total 11 lakes with total 304477 m2 areas. The Sundaha lake
is largest lake of the reserve having significant religious importance. We also
recorded 7 streams in the reserve. Wetlands of the reserve were facing problem
of sedimentation, pollution, and change in climate has also effects on these
wetland ecosystem and their importance.