Southasia Institute of Advanced Studies (SIAS) together with Federation of Community Forest Users Nepal (FECOFUN) conducted two district level workshops in Dolakha and Ramechhap on 8th and 9th May, 2023 respectively.
The main objective of the workshops was to share the preliminary research results related to changing dynamics of farming and community forest management and to discuss with the diverse group of people about the current challenges of community forestry in the changing social and economic situation in the district.
Dil Khatri and Govinda Poudel from SIAS presented their findings and reflections from their research project: The practice of resilience in mountain landscapes: Exploring risk and landscape investments in rural Nepal (PECA) that is relevant for FECOFUN representatives. The discussions following the presentation focused on the reasons behind the declining collective action and how the community forestry groups could better engage with the local government and create environment for future collaboration. The participants shared their concerns about the problems of wild animals on their farms and livestock. Towards the end of the event, participants also critically reflected on how FECOFUN can progressively play a role in raising the issue of wildlife problem at policy level.
The workshops were a part of the district conference organized by FECOFUN with the financial support of SIAS. The conference fostered a dialogue between the communities, local governments, federal/provincial government authorities and SIAS researchers.
