• ANAJ

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Kathmandu – The Building a Resilient Churia Region in Nepal (BRCRN) has successfully implemented an Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) program across 786 hectares of forests in the Chure region, enhancing the region’s climate resilience.

This initiative has effectively cleared thorny bushes and invasive species, allowing saplings to grow and improving accessibility for local communities to collect fuel and fodder.

BRCRN, Nepal’s first project funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), is implemented by the Government of Nepal through the Ministry of Forests and Environment, with technical support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The Koiralo Khola Community Forest in Siraha, once heavily degraded, now stands rejuvenated beside the scenic Hattidaha (Elephant Pond) and a small park. The removal of invasive species has allowed Sal (Shorea Robusta) saplings to flourish.

“Young trees had not been able to grow in this forest because of the bushes. But now we see that many young saplings have come up,” said Rudra Narayan Chaudhary, President of the Koiralo Khola Community Forest User Group (CFUG).

Dhani Lal Chaudhary, a member of the Koiralo Khola CFUG, explained the impact of the giant creeper, Amarlati (Giant Dodder), on the trees. “It stores a large amount of water, depriving the tree of moisture. Gradually it wraps around the tree and kills it,” he said, showcasing the deep grooves left by the creeper on a Sal tree.

BRCRN’s efforts have made it easier for people to navigate the forest, which in turn aids in natural regeneration. Neeraj Dahal, a forester at BRCRN, highlighted the importance of natural regeneration for Sal forests, noting the short viability of Sal seeds. “We assist in the regeneration by removing the factors that obstruct them,” Dahal said.

The community, comprising 117 households, relies heavily on the forest for resources. Sajan Devi Saday, an executive committee member of the CFUG, expressed her relief and optimism.

“Now that the forest is cleared, it is easier for me to get fodder for my goats and firewood for cooking. I hope that the new saplings will grow into healthy trees, which will be a great resource to the community,” she said.

As of June 2024, BRCRN has implemented ANR in 786 hectares of forests involving over 30 Forest User Groups (FUGs). The regeneration work continues in an additional 323 hectares linked with 21 FUGs. These efforts are not only revitalizing the forests but also enhancing local communities’ access to essential resources.

The project aims to promote climate-resilient land-use practices, combat deforestation and forest degradation, and build resilience to climate-induced hazards across 26 vulnerable river systems in the Central and Eastern Churia regions, covering 702,011 hectares of land.