People and Wildlife in the Qomolangma
Nature Preserve The Qomolangma Nature Preserve has a remarkable wealth of wildlife, especially considering that almost nowhere in the preserve is there land untouched by human activity. Although there have always been people-wildlife conflicts, burgeoning human populations, in- migration, and the effects of modernization are tipping the balance. Thus local acceptance of Qomolangma Nature Preserve, its boundaries and its laws depends in large part on finding solutions to such problems as crop-raiding black bears, the effects of livestock grazing on the historic pastures of native species, and attacks on livestock by wolves and snow leopards.
Field Training Workshops - in partnership with Qomolangma Nature Preserve managers
Preserve managers have expressed the need for training of local residents. Here is an excellent opportunity for fusing indigenous knowledge of natural resources with the ability to systematically conduct wildlife surveys and habitat appraisals. Preserve managers benefit from the local trainees' long experience of the land and its stewardship, while the trainees gather tools and skills that can lead to jobs with the preserve, greater security, and empowerment in the community.
Ultimately, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection will hinge upon developing local expertise within Qomolangma Nature Preserve's management staff as well as among village leaders. With qualified and committed local guardians, an effort might be undertaken in the less populated western parts of the Preserve, to promote the recovery of endangered species like the Tibetan brown bear, argali sheep, himalayan tar and snow leopards. Current research indicates that snow leopards are already on their way to recovery.
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