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Following the highly successful Khao Yai
Project in Thailand, which was funded by DSWF grants totalling
£78,000, DSWF now supports a similar project in Cambodia's
Bokor National Park, managed by WildAid (Bangkok).
 Despite
years of war in the 'Killing Fields' of Cambodia, the country
still holds some of the most extensive and non-fragmented stretches
of forest in Asia, providing vital habitat for remaining populations
of many wild animals, including tigers. Unfortunately war, extensive
forest exploitation, increasing pressure for fertile land from
an ever-increasing population and the trade in animal parts, are
all threatening to undermine this. Bokor faces other pressures
in that it spans four different provinces, each with their own
local power structures, with some local army units, many of which
are heavily armed, themselves deeply involved in illegal logging
and poaching. Rural Cambodians use wood exclusively as their only
source of energy and the pressure on the park is therefore intense.
This successful programme has not only trained
and equipped teams of anti-poaching patrols, but it works with
over 40 villages surrounding the park on community outreach programmes,
introducing them to alternative income generation schemes. In
addition, it provides fuel efficient stoves, plant nurseries and
offers employment to ex-poachers and has resulted in Bokor becoming
one of the best protected parks in Cambodia.
Reasons for DSWF support:
The aim of the project is to save Bokor's
rich wildlife heritage while at the same time benefiting and educating
the local people of the value of their wildlife.
DSWF funds:
 One
of only two UK charities funding conservation in Bokor, DSWF money
is spent on equipment and the training of nine new teams of 50
rangers who now successfully conduct over 250 patrols each year.
On average the teams destroy over 280 illegal charcoal kilns and
confiscate 25,000 snares a year. The provision of basic medicines
has also increased effectiveness and morale. Camera traps and
digital cameras have allowed successful monitoring of wildlife
for the first time. The funding of community workshops and children's
nature clubs, together with alternative income generation schemes
for local subsistence farmers has led to a marked decrease in
pressure on the park.
If you would like to support the
Bokor project please follow the links below to make a donation
or you can phone the Foundation Office on 01483 272323.
Every little contribution helps wildlife
and remember 100% of your donation will go in full to the project - thank you!
You can also help by becoming a member
of DSWF. Click here for more information
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