For Environment, Democracy and Livelihoods
Marking the completion of six years Jalthal Biodiversity Project, implemented in the biologically rich Jalthal Forest, with the support from the UK Government’s Darwin Initiative, ForestAction Nepal organised a half-day sharing program “Biodiversity Conservation Beyond Protected Areas: Insights and Lessons from Jalthal Forest“, on 23rd February 2026 in kathmandu. The event was attended by the Secretary of the Ministry of Forests and Environment (MOFE) Nepal, His Excellency the British Ambassador to Nepal along with senior government officials, researchers, academics, development partners and community forest representatives.
A major highlight of the program was the official launch of two key publications: “Trees of Jalthal: A Guide to Identification and Conservation” and “Jalthal Forest: A Biodiversity Trove”. The book documents 168 tree species from 53 plant families Jalthal Forest, of which 14 species are new to Nepal. Along with that, most species across major taxonomic groups of plants and animals (flora, fauna, funga) have also been documented through infographics. The publications serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, conservationists, researchers, students, and forest user groups
Similarly, an engaging panel discussion consisting of representatives from government agencies, academia, civil society was also conducted. The discussion reflected on Nepal’s community forestry achievements while addressing gaps in biodiversity outcomes, financing constraints, data and the need for policy reforms to better integrate pro-biodiversity practices into forest management.
