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STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Strategy for Building Social, Economic and Ecological Resilience of the Highland Landscape Area of Bhutan GEF- Small Grants Programs UNDP Bhutan October 2024 83 Strategy for Building Social, Economic and Ecological Resilience of the Highland Landscape Area of Bhutan GEF- Small Grants Programs UNDP Bhutan October 2024 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE ii HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS BHU '31()/7 CC DoFPS ECCD ECDC UNDP GBV GEF HH HLSD ICIMOD IUCN .(24 ./726 m.asl MEA MT NGO Nu. NWFP ORC SEPLS SGP SWS sq km RNR RSPN UNEP WCNP Bjop/Brokpa Chugo Dzongkhag Gewog Gup Mangmi Sang Sowei Menpa Tsho Tshogpa Yartsa Guenbub Chhu/Ri Basic Health Unit 'SQQYRMX](IZIPSTQIRXERH/RS[PIHKI1EREKIQIRXJSVXLI7EXS]EQEɸ Community Centre Department of Forests and Park Services Early Child Care

Development Early Child Development Centre United Nations Development Programme Gender-Based Violence Global Environment Facility Household Highland Landscape Strategy Development International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development International Union for Conservation of Nature .MKQI(SVNM2EXMSREP4EVOɸ .MKQI/LIWEV7XVMGX2EXYVI6IWIVZIɸ Meter above sea level Ministry of Economic Affairs Metric Tons Non-Governmental Organisation Ngultrum Non-Wood Forest Product Out Reach Clinic Socio-ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes Small Grants Programme Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary Square Kilometre Renewable Natural Resources Royal Society for Protection of Nature United Nations Environment Programme Wangchuck Centennial National Park Semi-nomadic Dried Cheese District Block or County Head of the Block Deputy Head of the Block Incense Traditional Medicine Health Worker Lake Head of the village Cordyceps River or water STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL

RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN TABLE OF CONTENTS ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS . II 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY . 1 2 BHUTAN’S HIGHLAND SOCIO-ECOLOGICAL PRODUCTIVE LANDSCAPE (SEPL) . 3 2.1 Selection of the Highland Landscape 3 2.2 Factors Considered for Selecting Highland Landscape Areas .3 2.3 Geographical Boundaries and Climate of the Highland Landscape Areas .4 2.4 Location of Highland Landscape Areas within Protected Areas .4 2.5 Dzongkhags, Gewogs and Demographics of the Highland Landscape Areas .5 2.6 Forests and Biodiversity of the Highland Landscape areas .7 2.7 Ecosystem Services of the Highland Landscape Areas .7 2.8 Water resources of the Highland Landscape Areas .8 2.9 Socio-Economic and Livelihood of the Highland Communities .9 2.10 Education and Health Services of the Highland Landscape Communities .9 2.11 How the Landscape Strategy supports the goals, objectives, and targets of the GEF SGP .10 3 SITUATION ANALYSIS (THREATS AND OPPORTUNITIES) . 12 3.1

Problems the proposed program aims to address .12 3.2 Overview of the Socio-Economic Development and Environmental Context .18 3.3 Stakeholders and Consultations18 4 LANDSCAPE STRATEGY (OUTCOMES AND INDICATORS) . 20 5 TOPOLOGY OF POTENTIAL COMMUNITYBASED PROJECTS AND CRITERIA FOR PROJECT SELECTION . 27 5.1 Improve natural resource base and its QEREKIQIRXIƾGMIRG] .27 5.2 Improve productivity in current livelihood activities.27 5.3 Introduction of alternative livelihood activities.28 5.4 Criteria to be used in evaluating projects28 6 LANDSCAPE-LEVEL MONITORING AND EVALUATION PLAN . 29 7 LANDSCAPE-LEVEL KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT PLAN . 30 8 COMDEKS INDICATORS . 31 9 APPENDIX A: LIST OF STAKEHOLDERS . 34 10 APPENDIX B: .36 10.1 Bumthang Dzongkhag - Chhoekhor and Ura Gewogs.36 10.2 Gasa Dzongkhag - Laya and Lunana Gewogs .41 10.3 Haa Dzongkhag - Bje, Katsho and Uesu Gewogs .47 10.4 Thimphu Dzongkhag - Soe, Naro, Lingzhi and Dagala Gewogs .53 10.5 Trashigang Dzongkhag - Merak and

Sakteng Gewogs .59 10.6 Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag - Phobjikha and Sephu Gewogs .66 11 APPENDIX C: SOME PHOTOS OF FIELD VISIT AND MEETINGS . 75 12 BIBLIOGRAPHY . 80 iii STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The National Steering Committee (NSC) of the United Nations Development Programme-Global Environment Facility-Small Grants Programme (UNDP-GEF-SGP) of BhuXERLEWMHIRXMƼIHXLI,MKLPERHPERHWGETIEWE priority for urgent interventions. This region is vital to the livelihoods of its inhabitants, who rely on livestock, non-wood forest products (NWFPs), and agricultural production. Ecologically, the Highland landscape is fragile, characterized by a sensitive ecosystem, limited arable land, and harsh climatic conditions. -XWYTTSVXWEVMGLHMZIVWMX]SJƽSVEERHJEYRE including endangered species. Historically, the highland communities have practiced sustainable land use and natural

resource management, with a strong emphasis on conservation. However, climate change presents WMKRMƼGERX XLVIEXW XS XLI PSGEP IGSW]WXIQW and the livelihoods of the people. This project aligns with the Community Development and Knowledge Management for the Satoyama Initiative (COMDEKS) and aims to leverage the social strengths of the highland communities to promote environmental conservation and improve livelihoods. It focuses on the sustainable use of natural resourcessuch as water, land, and biodiversityto ensure the feasibility and sustainability of the proposed interventions. With secured funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the project will implement these interventions. The primary objective of this initiative is to integrate resilient social, economic, ecological, and cultural elements into a framework that promotes adaptive, sustainable management of the Highland landscape. This includes empowering community organizations to take collective action to

achieve socio-ecological resilience in Bhutan’s sensitive highland regions. Assessments were conducted through interviews and workshops with key stakeholders, including local leaders, livestock communities, and representatives from the government and NGOs. These discussions helped identify critical issues related to livelihood improvements, alternative opportunities, and socio-economic and environmental conservation needs, focusing on biodiversity, land, water, and natural resources. The socio-economic and environmental conditions in the Highland landscape are shaped by challenges such as geographic isolation, dependence on natural resources, and vulnerability to external pressures like wildlife encroachment and climate change. These challenges are crucial considerations in understanding the community’s needs and are fundamental to the assessment and implementation phases of the project. 1 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 2 HIGHLAND

LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Through a situational analysis, 14 key chalPIRKIW[IVIMHIRXMƼIH 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Livestock depredation by wild animals Crop depredation by wildlife in highland communities Reduction in pastureland Lack of suitable storage and transport of livestock products Limited processing and packaging equipment for livestock and NWFP products Limited marketing and value addition for livestock and NWFP products Limited access to animal husbandry and health services Youth not interested in taking up livestock activities Loss of biodiversity due to unsustainable harvesting of NWFPs and medicinal plants Lack of effective waste management Limited ecotourism facilities and support Longer, drier seasons related to climate change Gender inequality Rural-to-urban migration in highland communities The overarching goal of the SGP Highland Landscape Strategy is to “enhance social, economic, and ecological resilience through sustainable

management of highland landscapes via community-based activities.” This strategy was developed through interviews, workshops, and meetings with local stakeLSPHIVW TVMSVMXM^MRK XLI OI] MWWYIW MHIRXMƼIH by the communities. This process facilitated XLI MHIRXMƼGEXMSR SJ TVMSVMX] MWWYIW XS FI EH- dressed by the SGP at the landscape level. The following sections outline the expected Landscape Outcomes based on the 14 identiƼIHGLEPPIRKIWEWHIZIPSTIHMRGSPPEFSVEXMSR with the Highland communities and stakeLSPHIVW EW HSGYQIRXIH MR 7IGXMSR  7MXYEtion Analysis. The landscape outcomes and associated indicators for tracking progress have been broadly categorized under four of XLIƼZI-RHMGEXSVWSJ6IWMPMIRGIMR7)407 7Scio-Ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes), which are the main outcomes of XLI,MKLPERH0ERHWGETI7XVEXIK] 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Landscape diversity, ecosystem integrity, and resilience Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture)

Livelihoods and well-being Knowledge and innovation Governance and social equity STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 2 BHUTAN’S HIGHLAND SOCIOECONOMICAL PRODUCTIVE LANDSCAPE (SEPL) 2.1 Selection of the Highland Landscape The National Steering Committee (NSC) of the United Nations Development Programme-Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (UNDP-GEF-SGP) in BhuXERLEWMHIRXMƼIHXLI,MKLPERHVIKMSREWETVMority for urgent interventions. This area is crucial to the livelihoods of its inhabitants, who rely on livestock, non-wood forest products (NWFPs), and agriculture. Ecologically, the Highland landscape is fragile, with a sensitive ecosystem, limited arable land, and harsh climatic conditions. It is home XSEVMGLHMZIVWMX]SJƽSVEERHJEYREMRGPYHMRK endangered species. Traditionally, Highland communities have practiced sustainable land use and natural resource management, with a strong

focus on conservation. However, cliQEXI GLERKI TSWIW WMKRMƼGERX VMWOW XS FSXL the local ecosystems and the people’s way of life. This project aims to leverage the social strengths of these communities to promote environmental conservation and improve livelihoods while considering the sustainable use of natural resources such as water, land, and biodiversity. With secured funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the project is ready to implement these interventions. 2.2 Factors Considered for Selecting Highland Landscape Areas In selecting the project implementation areas, the study team considered several key JEGXSVW 1. Unique Cultural Heritage,MKLPERH communities have a distinct and diverse cultural identity that sets them apart. 2. Low Population Density8LIWTEVWIP] populated areas allow for more focused and targeted interventions. 3. Location within Protected Areas These communities are located within protected zones where human-wildlife

GSRƽMGXMWEWMKRMƼGERXMWWYI 4. Livelihoods Dependent on Livestock The communities’ livelihoods are heavily reliant on livestock, which in turn depend on the natural pasturelands and non-wood forest products (NWFPs) of the Highland landscape. 3 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 4 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 5. Potential for Agricultural Sustainability(IWTMXIXLIPMQMXIH availability of arable land, the highland communities have the capacity to maintain agricultural production, providing an additional layer of support for their livelihoods. 6. Existing Infrastructure8LITVIWIRGI of infrastructure in each gewog (block) will facilitate the smooth implementation and monitoring of the project. By considering these factors, the study team LEW MHIRXMƼIH WTIGMƼG EVIEW [MXLMR XLI ,MKLland landscape that are critical to achieving the project’s objectives of environmental conservation and livelihood enhancement. 2.3

Geographical Boundaries and Climate of the Highland Landscape Areas The study’s selected Highland SEPL is located in the northern part of Bhutan, situated above 2,500 meters above mean sea level (m.asl), and spatially extending from 89°E, 28°N to 92°E, 27°N. The region is bounded by China to the north and west, India to the east, and the lower-altitude areas of Bhutan to the south. cold winters, with mountain peaks perpetually covered in snow. The minimum temperature in the highland landscape is -4°C in January, while the highest temperature is 32.90°C in July. The lower parts of the region remain cool in summer due to the high-altitude terrain. In terms of precipitation, the northern border region with China, which is part of the highland landscape, receives approximately 40 millimetres of precipitation per year, primarily in the form of snow. In contrast, the temperate central regions receive an annual average of around 1,000 millimetres of precipitation. 2.4 Location of

Highland Landscape Areas within Protected Areas Bhutan has nine protected areas, which include four National Parks, four Wildlife Sanctuaries, and one Strict Nature Reserve, all interconnected by biological corridors. The selected Highland landscapes for the project are situated within four of these protected areas. 1. 2. 3. 4. The highland climate in the far northern reaches of the Kingdom is characterized by Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP) Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve (JKSNR) Wangchuck Centennial National Park (WCNP) Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS) STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Map 1 Protected Areas and Biological Corridors of Bhutan 2.5 Dzongkhags, Gewogs and Demographics of the Highland Landscape Areas 60%. The population density within this region MWGEPGYPEXIHXSFIƼZIMRHMZMHYEPWTIVWUYEVI kilometer. The Highland landscape spans six Dzongkhags (Districts) and fourteen Gewogs

(blocks). The selected Highlands landscape is inhabited by a total of 4,747 households, encompassing a population of 35,683 individuals. This population consists of 14,107 females, constituting 40% of the population, and 21,576 males, making up the remaining Culturally some of the inhabitants in the highland of the western part of Bhutan are referred to as Bjop, while those residing in the Merak ERH 7EOXIRK EVIEW EVI WTIGMƼGEPP] ORS[R EW BrokpasEHIWMKREXMSRXLEXVIƽIGXWXLIMVWMKRMƼGERX VIPMERGI SR PMZIWXSGO JSV WYWXIRERGI and livelihood. 5 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 6 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Map 2: Selected districts for the study (shaded with green) Table 1 provides a summary of the Highland communities living in each Dzongkhag and Gewogs, the Highland land area of the Dz- ongkhag, the number of Highland households and the Protected Area where each Gewog is located. Table 1 Dzongkhags, Gewogs and

Demographics of the Highland landscape Dzongkha Household (Number) Land Area (Sq. Km) Highland Gewog in Dzongkha Protected Area (PA) in Gewog Thimphu 374 1,063.11 ¾ Soe ¾ Naro ¾ Lingzhi ¾ Dagala (not in PA) Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP) Haa 783 2,697.76 ¾ Bje ¾ Katsho ¾ Euse Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve (JKSNR). Gasa 866 2,697.76 ¾ Laya ¾ Lunana Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP) Bumthang 1171 1,798.6 ¾ Chhoekhor ¾ Ura (in biological corridor) Wangchuck Centennial National Park (WCNP). Wangduephodrang 759 1,253.71 ¾ Sephu ¾ Phobjikha (not in PA but in a Ramsar Site*) Wangchuck Centennial National Park (WCNP) Trashigang 794 1,778.6 ¾ Merak ¾ Sakteng Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS) Total Households 4747 6,805.48 Total Area *Phobjikha Gewog is in a designated Ramsar area and hosts a key biodiversity species, the migratory black-necked crane, which roosts in the valley during the winter season. STRATEGY FOR

BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 2.6 Forests and Biodiversity of the Highland Landscape areas Bhutan ranks in the top ten percent of the world’s countries with the greatest species diversity (species richness per unit area). It ranks in the top ten global ‘hotspots’ that include the ‘Himalayan’ hotspot. While estimates vary according to source, the general consensus is that at the species level, there are more than 5,500 species of vascular plants, more than 770 species of the avifauna of palearctic and oriental origin, and more than 165 species of mammals, with many species being endemic to Bhutan. (Gillison, 2012) The Highland landscape located mostly within Bhutan’s Protected areas supports unique biological diversity and ecosystems. The alpine zone contains more than 300 species, including NWFP that are used in traditional medicine, forming nearly 200 different traditional medicines. The Highland fauna

consists of globally endangered and threatened species. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), list of endangered species living in the Highland landscape includes the Royal Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) and Snow Leopard (Uncia uncia) (Nepal & Manita, 2021). Other WMKRMƼGERX WTIGMIW JSYRH MR XLMW VIKMSR MRclude the elusive Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens), the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin (Budorcas taxicolor white), the IUCN threatened Himalayan musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster leucogaster), Himalayan Serow (Capricornis sumatraensis) and migratory Black Necked Crane (Grus nigrocollis). 2.7 Ecosystem Services of the Highland Landscape Areas The Highland landscape has been inhabited for thousands of years, with visible and unique patterns of human adaptation and cultural QSHMƼGEXMSRSJXLIREXYVEPIRZMVSRQIRX The diverse ecosystems and high biological diversity provide the Highland communities with valuable ecosystem services, including

food, water, fuelwood, and nutrients, as well EW RSRQEXIVMEP FIRIƼXW PMOI VIGVIEXMSR ERH spiritual enrichment. These ecosystem services are essential to the livelihoods of the Highland communities and are key indicators of their sustainability. ;LMPI WSQI SJ &LYXERƅW PIEWX QSHMƼIH IGSsystems are found in the Highland landscapes, they are increasingly under threat due XSMRXIRWMƼIHLYQEREGXMZMXMIWMRGPYHMRK • Unsustainable Collection of NWFPs Overharvesting of non-wood forest products without proper management. • ;MPHPMJI0MZIWXSGO'SRƽMGX'SQQYRMXMIW JEGIWMKRMƼGERXGLEPPIRKIW[MXLPMZIWXSGO being attacked by predators such as big cats, wild dogs, and bears. • Crop Damage by Wildlife%KVMGYPXYVEP crops are frequently damaged by wildlife. • Climate Change Impact%PXLSYKL&LYXER is a carbon-negative country, it is not immune to global climate change, which poses a threat to its water resources and rich biodiversity. 7

STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 8 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN The increasing pollution from the transportation sector, construction industry, burning agricultural waste within the country, and transboundary pollution will affect Bhutan’s most substantial social and environmental health. Growing solid waste is also one of the pressing concerns in the selected landscape (Nepal, 2021). These challenges highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect the ecosystem services that sustain the Highland communities. 2.8 Water resources of the Highland Landscape Areas Bhutan’s water resources comprise major river basins that originate from snow-capped mountains and associated watershed fed by seasonal rain and snow and include numerous glacial lakes. According to a report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), 24 out of 2,674 glacial lakes in

Bhutan are considered “potentially dangerous,” meaning they could burst, including those in the highland landscape. Bumthang 8LI'LEQOLEV'LLYVMZIV[LMGLƽS[WXLVSYKL Bumthang, is joined by other tributaries and eventually meets the Mangde Chhu, Manas, and Brahmaputra rivers before reaching the Bay of Bengal. While it is primarily used for irrigation, it also adds aesthetic value to the Bumthang tourist valley and is designated as EJVIIƽS[MRKVMZIVTSWMRKRSWMKRMƼGERXVMWO Haa The high-altitude wetlands within the Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve (JKSNR) are integral components of the river basin system downstream, with 39 lakes of varying sizes recorded, forming the catchment area for several tributaries of the Amo-Chhu and HaaChhu-Wang-Chhu rivers. These lakes serve as critical water sources for river systems that support the livelihoods of residents within and along the basin, covering Haa, Paro, Chukha, and Samtse Dzongkhags. Thimphu and Gasa The Jigme

Dorji National Park (JDNP) is a vital water source for western Bhutan, with four major river basins - Phochhu, Mochhu, Pachhu, and Wangchhu - originating from its snowcapped mountains and watersheds. Further to this, two glacial lakes in the Lunana region, Raphstreng Tsho and Thorthormi (Thortomi) Tsho, are considered high-risk due to climate change, with the latter predicted to burst in 15-20 years. Additionally, two major lakes, Sethag Burge Tsho, and Simdong Goi Tsho, are also noteworthy in the Gasa region. Trashigang In Merak village, a rural water supply scheme provides water to residents through 50-60 water taps, each serving 4-5 households, ensuring a reliable water supply. The Jomo-ri river, which originates from Serkemla and Mount Jomo Kungkhar, is fed by numerous small and medium-sized lakes, streams, and seasonal rain/snow, eventually becoming Gamri STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Chhu when it

reaches Phongmey gewog. This VMZIVLEWWMKRMƼGERXTSXIRXMEPJSVL]HVSTS[IV generation, as it joins the Drangme Chhu and ƽS[WMRXSXLI&VELQETYXVE6MZIVMR-RHMEERH the Bay of Bengal. Wangduephodrang Notably, 970 hectares of the Phobjikha valley have been designated as a Ramsar site, a wetland of international importance. 2.9 Socio-Economic and Livelihood of the Highland Communities The sources of income for the highland community are multifaceted, encompassing livestock products, NWFP such as cordyceps, incense, and medicinal plants, and agricultural products, which are predominantly utilized for personal consumption. Additionally, vegetable production serves as a supplementary means of income generation for these highland communities. • The communities of Laya, Lunana, Lingzhi, Soe, Naro, Chhoekhor, and Sephu derive a substantial income from the cultivation and sale of cordyceps, with average annual earnings ranging from Nu. 30,000 to Nu 750,000. This income is further

augmented by the sale of medicinal plants • The communities of Merak and Sakteng generate an average annual income of Nu. 20,000 to Nu. 30,000 from livestock products However, it is worth noting that a sigRMƼGERXTSVXMSRSJXLIMVPMZIWXSGOTVSHYGXW are bartered for rice and other agricultural commodities, which are not factored into their overall income. • The communities of Bje, Katsho, and Eusu derive their income from a combination of livestock products, NWFPs, and vegetable products. • The communities of Phobjikha earn an average annual income of Nu. 100,000 to Nu 300,000 solely from potato cultivation, in addition to generating some income from cordyceps products. • The community of Dagala primarily earns its income from livestock products and the production of incense. While the sources of income may appear similar across the various highland communities, there is a notable disparity in the average annual income earned by each community. It MW RSXI[SVXL] XLEX E

WMKRMƼGERX TVSTSVXMSR approximately 90%, of the inhabitants of this region are highlanders who predominantly engage in the practice of livestock rearing. As a result, their livelihood is heavily reliant on the products derived from livestock, as well as NWFPs. Furthermore, agriculture plays a crucial role in supporting the livestock of these highland communities, underscoring its importance in their overall economic and subsistence activities. 2.10 Education and Health Services of the Highland Landscape Communities Despite a commendable student enrolment rate in the school, the student-to-teacher ratio 9 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 10 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN WXERHWEXETTVSMQEXIP][LMGLIGIIHW the internationally recognized standard ratio SJ  'SRWIUYIRXP] XLMW TVIWIRXW E WMKRMJicant challenge in terms of coverage. • To empower community organizations to take collective action towards achieving

socio-ecological resilience in the highland landscape. Basic health facilities are available in all the highland communities; however, they face a notable challenge due to the limited number of health staff. The health coverage ratio is approximately 500 to 650 individuals per health staff member, including village health workers, highlighting the need for increased healthcare personnel to adequately serve the community’s needs. • To design, implement, and evaluate grant projects that promote global environmenXEP FIRIƼXW ERH WYWXEMREFPI HIZIPSTQIRX in the highland landscape. 2.11 How the Landscape Strategy supports the goals, objectives, and targets of the GEF SGP The primary objective of this study is to identify a harmonious blend of resilient social, economic, ecological, and cultural elements that can foster adaptive sustainable highland landscape management. The project aims to empower community organizations to take collective action towards achieving

socio-ecological resilience in the ecologically sensitive highland landscape of Bhutan. The project’s objectives can be summarized EWJSPPS[W • To identify a suitable mix of resilient social, economic, ecological, and cultural elements that can support adaptive sustainable highland landscape management. • To enhance the capacity of community organizations to manage the highland landscape in a way that balances human well-being with environmental conservation. To achieve this objective, the project will focus on the design, implementation, and evaluation of grant projects that align with Global Environment Facility (GEF) goals, outcomes, and targets by promoting global environmenXEPFIRIƼXWERHWYWXEMREFPIHIZIPSTQIRX&] doing so, the project seeks to enhance the capacity of community organizations to manage the landscapes in a way that balances human well-being with environmental conservation, ultimately contributing to the long-term sustainability of the Highland

landscape of Bhutan. -HIRXMƼIHTVSNIGXW[MPPFIGEVVMIHSYXXLVSYKL participatory, community-driven, multi-stakeholder, landscape management using the '31()/7 ETTVSEGL WTIGMƼGEPP] EMQIH EX enhancing social and ecological resilience through, STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN • biodiversity conservation, • optimization of ecosystem services, • management of pastureland, (particularly agro ecosystems) • water sustainability, and • measures that will mitigate the effects of climate change. It is envisaged that co-ordinated community projects will generate ecological, economic, and social synergies that will produce greater and potentially longer-lasting global environQIRXEP FIRIƼXW EW [IPP EW MRGVIEWIH WSGMEP capital, local sustainable development benIƼXWERHGSRXVMFYXIXSXLI'31()/7/RS[Pedge Products for capacity building, replication and up-scaling within other

Highland areas of Bhutan and the world. 11 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 12 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 3 SITUATION ANALYSIS (THREATS AND OPPORTUNITIES) 3.1 Problems the proposed program aims to address The highland landscape is characterized by a unique social, economic, and ecological systems. Socially, the highland communities are predominantly comprised of people, who engage in livestock rearing and are reliant heavily on livestock products and NWFPs for their livelihood. The communities are scattered and remote, with limited access to basic educational and health services and amenities ERHELMKLWXYHIRXXSXIEGLIVVEXMSSJ Economically, the highland communities derive their income from a combination of sources, including livestock products, NWFPs such as cordyceps, incense, and medicinal plants, as well as agricultural products. Vegetable production also supplements income generation for these communities. However,

XLIEZIVEKIERRYEPMRGSQIZEVMIWWMKRMƼGERXP] across different highland communities, ranging from Nu. 20,000 to Nu 750,000 Ecologically, the highland landscape is characterized by a fragile and sensitive ecosystem, with limited arable land and a harsh climate. The region is home to a diverse range of ƽSVEERHJEYREMRGPYHMRKWIZIVEPIRHERKIVIH species. The highland communities have tra- ditionally practiced sustainable land use and natural resource management, with a strong emphasis on the conservation and preservation of the natural environment. Additionally, the region is vulnerable to climate change, [LMGL TSWIW E WMKRMƼGERX XLVIEX XS XLI PMZIPMhoods of the highland communities and the fragile ecosystem. The socio-economic and environmental conditions in the Highland landscapes, are shaped by the unique challenges faced by the local communities due primarily to their geographic isolation, dependence on natural resources, vulnerability to external pressures like

wildlife encroachment, and climate change. This forms the foundation for understanding the nature of the problems these communities face and should be carefully examined in the assessment and implementation phases of projects aimed at improving their livelihoods and the Highland landscape. In light of these discussions, the most pressing challenges for the communities have been MHIRXMƼIHMRGPYHMRKMWWYIWVIPEXIHXSPMZIPMLSSH improvement (major livelihood types, availability of alternative opportunities, socio-economic status) and sustainable environmental conservation needs (biodiversity, water, and natural resources). STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Problem 1: Livestock depredation by wild animals 8LI GSRƽMGX FIX[IIR LYQERW ERH [MPHPMJI is a global issue in the increasingly shared PERHWGETI ,YQERƁ;MPHPMJI 'SRƽMGX ,;'  is often viewed as a threat to most of the rural populace of

the world, as crop losses to wildlife remove the household’s food supply, and are an economic drain on the homestead (Wangchuk, 2023). Bhutan has been grappling [MXLLYQER[MPHPMJIGSRƽMGXJSVHIGEHIWERH MX VIQEMRW E WMKRMƼGERX MWWYI XSHE] %W VYVEP communities heavily depend on agriculture and livestock for their livelihoods, encounters with wildlife often result in crop damage, livestock predation, and threats to human safety. 8LMW SRKSMRK GSRƽMGX TSWIW GLEPPIRKIW JSV both conservation efforts and the well-being of local communities, as they seek to balance sustainable living with the protection of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity (RGoB, 2018). Addressing this issue requires comprehensive strateKMIW XLEX QMXMKEXI GSRƽMGXW [LMPI TVIWIVZMRK the country’s unique ecological heritage. Most of the population of highland depends on livestock and crop production for their livelihoods, with semi-nomadic highland communities particularly reliant on yak and cattle

rearing. Predation has led to the loss of 1,656 domestic animals (7.3%) in the past three years, according to the DoFPS in 2021. The total livestock population in the Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP) is recorded at 22,673. In the JKSNR, there have been reports of snow leopards targeting yaks, especially juveniles ERH GEPZIW 7TIGMƼGEPP] WRS[ PISTEVHW LEZI been documented to have killed 159 yaks and 3 horses in the Bje, Katsho, and Eusu gewogs. Additionally, dholes have accounted for the deaths of 11 yaks, 40 cattle, and one horse. Highlanders in Sakteng and Merak have been losing sheep and calves of yak to wild animals, especially at night. It is noted that all highland areas involved in this project are experiencing with livestock depredation. Key Stakeholders: Yak Herders, Cattle HerdIVW*SVIWXV]3ƾGMEPW Problem 2:Crop depredation by wildlife in highland communities 'VSTHITPIXMSRGEYWIHF][MPHPMJIMWEWMKRMƼcant issue faced by highland communities as many rely

heavily on subsistence agriculture for their food and income. In many cases, farmers lose entire seasons’ worth of crops to animal raids, severely impacting their ability to provide for their families. This problem is particularly prevalent in gewogs such as Bje, Katsho, and Eusu, where it has been reported that 34.52% of households identify crop depredation by wild animals as a major concern. The destruction of crops by wildlife can have a cascading effect on the livelihoods of highland communities. The loss of agricultural productivity not only diminishes household food supplies but also reduces the amount of surplus crops that can be sold at markets. This puts further strain on their already limitIH ƼRERGMEP VIWSYVGIW ERH HMWVYTXW XLI PSGEP economy. Highland farmers lack effective tools and techniques to protect their crops from wildlife. Traditional methods such as scarecrows, 13 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 14 HIGHLAND

LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN fencing, or night vigils may offer limited protection, but they are often not enough to prevent wildlife incursions. Moreover, building robust physical barriers or investing in modern technologies such as electric fencing is often cost-prohibitive for these small-scale farmers unless supported by the government. Alongside wildlife-related crop depredation, farmers in highland areas also face labor shortages (18.15%) and irrigation challenges (DoFPS, 2021). These factors further comTSYRHXLIHMƾGYPX]SJQEMRXEMRMRKTVSHYGXMZI farms, as there are fewer people available to tend the crops, and water supply for irrigation MW SJXIR MRWYƾGMIRX 'SQFMRIH [MXL [MPHPMJI damage, these challenges make agricultural WYWXEMREFMPMX] IZIR QSVI HMƾGYPX XS EGLMIZI ad should be addressed when addressing the problems of crop depletion. management plan to guide Yak Herders in sustainably management their rangelands, although such guidelines are stipulated in

the Land Act of Bhutan 2007 (DoFPS, 2021). It is also noted that highlanders in Bumthang Dzongkhag, in places like Dudrok, Thendrok, and Khangdrok in Choekhor Gewog, face communication problems during the summer and rainy seasons, as mule tracks, footpaths, and wooden/cantilever bridges get washed away. The herders cannot maintain these paths properly due to a lack of budget. These issues should be considered in any pastureland management plans. Key Stakeholders: Yak Herders, Cattle HerdIVW*SVIWXV]3ƾGMEPW Problem 4: Lack of suitable storage and transport of livestock products Key Stakeholders: All Highland Communities Problem 3: Reduction in pastureland Highland communities rely heavily on livestock products, and the reduction in pastureland LEWWMKRMƼGERXP]MQTEGXIHXLIMVPMZIPMLSSHW-R the 12th Five Year Plan, the Royal Government of Bhutan has programs to improve livestock productivity and enhance rangeland management, and these efforts are ongoing. However, despite these

initiatives, the reduction of pastureland remains a persistent issue for highland communities. Yak pastures are particularly susceptible to the regeneration and encroachment of Rhododendron. Yak herders maintain pasturelands by clearing and burning bushes and trees, often violating forestry VIKYPEXMSRW 'YVVIRXP] XLIVI MW RS WGMIRXMƼG Despite producing high-quality livestock products such as butter, cheese, chugu (dried cheese), and yak meat, storage and transport remain a persistent challenge for highland communities. Lingzhi Gewog, which boasts a substantial livestock population of 3,908 yaks and 914 equines, produced an impressive 183,041 liters of fresh milk, 7,931 kilograms of butter, 333 kilograms of cheese, 17,845 units of chugo, 3,550 kilograms of yak meat, and 61 kilograms of wool in 2021. However, the community struggles with the timely storage of these products. Similarly, Naro Gewog reported producing 116,405 liters of fresh milk, 5,626 kilograms STRATEGY

FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN of butter, 10,827 units of chugo, and 9,297 kilograms of yak meat in 2021, according to Thimphu Dzongkhag. Highlanders like Merak, which borders Arunachal Pradesh in northeastern India, trade dairy products and sheep’s woolen goods with their neighbours. However, the bottlenecks in their trade damage their butter and dairy produce due to a lack of refrigerated vans or reefer containers to transport their products to the VSEHTSMRXEXXLIFSVHIVɸ Currently, the people of Merak transport their goods using ponies and porters, and their products are often damaged on the way due to heat, which leaves herders disappointed. If such facilities were available, they could export tons of butter and cheese to the neighFSYVMRKWXEXISJ%VYREGLEP4VEHIWL-RHMEɸ Problem 5: Limited processing and packaging equipment for livestock and NWFP 8LIVIMWEWMKRMƼGERXPMQMXEXMSRSJIUYMTQIRX for proper

processing and packaging of livestock and NWFP resulting in many products being spoilt and damaged before sale. Traditional methods are used for processing butter ERHGLIIWIFYXXLIWIEVIMRIƾGMIRXERHXLI lack of proper storage described in Problem 4 further increases the risk of product deterioration. The nomadic lifestyle of highland livestock herders, who move their animals in search of pasture and are distant them from markets, inherently makes the processing, packaging, and transportation of their products in a time- P]ERHIƾGMIRXQERRIVEGLEPPIRKMRKIRZMVSRment. Key Stakeholders Yak Herders, Cattle Herders, Community members involved in the Livestock Product Supply chain. Problem 6:Limited marketing and value-addition for livestock and NWFP products Despite the high-quality livestock products and NWFPs produced by highland communities, there is a minimal value addition to these goods. Products like butter, cheese, and yak meat are not professionally packaged, limiting

their market appeal. Similarly, non-wood forest products (NWFP), such as those collected for incense and medicinal purposes, are not properly processed or packaged. Most NWFPs, including cordycepsone of the most ZEPYEFPI ERH TVSƼXEFPI TVSHYGXWƂEVI WSPH MR raw form. There is also a lack of proper techniques for collection, processing, and packaging, which further reduces their market potential Transport is also a challenge affecting all highland communities, limiting their ability to fully capitalize on their livestock production. Key Stakeholders: Yak Herders, Cattle Herders, and Community members involved in the Livestock Product Supply chain. Problem 7:Limited access to animal husbandry and health services Other challenges the highlanders face today include a lack of animal husbandry and hospital staff due to distance and remoteness. People have submitted requests through the 15 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 16 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE

AREA OF BHUTAN gewog administration to explore ways for liveWXSGOSƾGMEPWXSZEGGMREXIXLIMV]EOWEKEMRWX gid and lumpy skin diseases every six months. There is also a need for health personnel to conduct check-ups, as many people suffer from blood pressure issues or hypertension. Key Stakeholders: All Highland Communities and Government. Problem 8: Youth not interested in taking up livestock activities More and more youth are not interested in taking up livestock activities due to the hardship of rearing yak and cattle and the limited income from the products. Processing of livestock products, particularly butter and cheese, is undertaken with rudimentary methods and EVIRSXIƾGMIRX Key Stakeholders=SYXLERHEPP,MKLPERH Community members. Problem 9:Loss of biodiversity due to unsustainable harvesting of NWFPs and medicinal plants One of the primary livelihood activities in the Highland landscape is the collection of NWFPs. A 2019 socio-economic survey of JDNP revealed that

residents of Lingzhi, Soe, and Naro Gewogs earned a substantial Nu. 4778 million from the sale of cordyceps alone. Additional income came from the sale of medicinal plants such as 2EVHSWXEGL]W KVERHMƽSVE (Nu. 40 million) and Picrorhiza kurroa (Nu 15 million). This Protected Area is also rich in other medicinal plants, including Paris polyphylla, Gentiana sp., Pedicularis sp, Meconopsis sp, Delphinium sp., and Aconitum sp, all of which are in high demand in local, national, and international markets (DoFPS, 2021). The increasing demand for NWFPs critically requires sustainable management of this precious resource to prevent overharvesting and ensure long-term viability for both ecological health and community livelihoods. Key Stakeholders2*;4GSPPIGXSVWSVIWXV] 3ƾGMEPWERH'SQQYRMX]QIQFIVWMRZSPZIH in the NWFP Supply chain. #  98c'
 J 
 management The waste management system is rudimentary and inadequate with the construction of waste disposal

pits and the establishment of basic regulations. Several key challenges perWMWXXLIIMWXMRK[EWXITMXWEVIMRWYƾGMIRXXS handle the volume and variety of waste generated, especially in growing or remote commuRMXMIW8LITMXWSJXIRSZIVƽS[SVJEMPXSGSRXEMR waste properly, leading to environmental contamination. Waste is typically not segregated into categories like organic, recyclable, and LE^EVHSYW [EWXI QEOMRK MX HMƾGYPX XS VIG]cle or compost effectively. Many community members lack awareness of proper waste disposal methods, leading to improper practices. There is a shortage of training on sustainable waste management. Due to the remoteness of the highland communities, transporting waste to central treatment or recycling facilMXMIWMWHMƾGYPXERHGSWXP] 4SSV[EWXIQEREKIQIRXPIEHWXSWMKRMƼGERX hazards, including soil and water contamina- STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN tion, and negative

impacts on ecosystems and the health of the local Highland communities and is particularly concerning as it is occurring in the Protected Areas with ecologically sensitive. Key Stakeholders,MKLPERH'SQQYRMXMIW0Scal Governments, and Waste Disposal Committee members Problem 11:Limited ecotourism facilities and support Problem 13: Gender Inequality There is a limited participation of women at decision-making levels especially in community activities. This inequality has occurred through several factors, including traditional conventions and beliefs fostered by religion and culture and lack of formal recognition of their contribution to the economy as their roles have traditionally been in the informal non-income earning sectors. Key Stakeholders: Highland Communities There is a limited tourism infrastructure in the Highland communities. This unique environment, however, represents a highly desirable tourism destination and has the potential to provide supplementary income to

the highland communities through establishment of homestays. Key Stakeholders: Highland Communities, Tourism Board of Bhutan, and Tour Guides / Operators. Problem 12:Longer, drier seasons related to climate change It was reported the rainfall in the highland areas is erratic and less compared to a few years back. People of highland report that there are longer drier months starting from October to May. Key Stakeholders,MKLPERH'SQQYRMXMIW National and International Governments Problem 14:Rural-to-Urban Migration in Highland Communities Traditional Highland communities are increasingly facing the challenge of rural-to-urban migration, leading to empty households (HH). Several factors are contributing to this migration including livestock herding being physically demanding in the harsh Highland environment, extreme weather, rugged terrain, and limited access to grazing lands. These factors make livestock rearing less appealing to younger generations, who prefer less strenuous

occupations. Collecting NWFPs such as cordyceps, medicinal herbs, and other valuable resources from the wild is both physically demanding and time-consuming. It often requires long treks through remote and rugged landscapes, making it an unappealing occupation for younger generations Contributing to the migration issue is the expansion of schools and educational opportunities, giving rural youth the chance to leave their villages to pursue urban education and employment. Many young people view tradi- 17 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 18 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN tional practices, such as yak herding, butter and cheese making, or NWFP collection, as outdated or not viable career paths. They are more attracted to modern employment opportunities in urban centers, where conditions are less physically taxing and incomes more stable. While this is a positive development, it creates a gap in the traditional Highland workforce. As young

people migrate to urban areas, highland households are left empty or occupied only by the elderly, who struggle to maintain the family’s traditional livelihood. This migration trend weakens the social fabric of highland communities, leading to de-population, loss of traditional knowledge, and a declining labor force for key economic activities like livestock herding and NWFP harvesting. The combined effects of rural depopulation and a lack of interest in traditional livelihoods raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of highland communities. With fewer people willing or able to engage in livestock rearing and NWFP collection, there is a growing risk that these industries will decline, affecting both the local economy and cultural heritage. To address this issue, targeted policies and programs could be introduced to make highland livelihoods more attractive to younger generations. This might include providing incentives for staying in rural areas, improving infrastructure

and market access, or integrating modern technology and training into traditional practices. Additionally, promoting eco-tourism or value-added processing of NWFPs could create new opportunities for economic development within these communities. Key Stakeholders,MKLPERH'SQQYRMXMIW National and Local Governments, and Youth. 3.2 Overview of the SocioEconomic Development and Environmental Context The socio-economic and environmental context for each gewog is detailed separately (refer to Appendix B) to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by highland communities. This contextual analysis forms the foundation for identifying the key issues impacting these communities. -R VIWTSRWI XS XLI MHIRXMƼIH TVSFPIQW E WIX of strategic approaches has been proposed. These strategies will be implemented through capable Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to ensure effective execution of the respective projects aimed

at addressing both socio-economic and environmental challenges. 3.3 Stakeholders and Consultations Assessments were conducted through interviews and workshops with key stakeholders, including local leaders, livestock communities, and various government and NGO representatives. These discussions aimed to identify pressing issues related to livelihood improvement, alternative opportunities, socio-economic conditions, and environmental conservation needs, focusing on biodiversity, land, water, and natural resources in the highland landscape. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Local government leaders, as administrators and custodians of gewog (local) administrations, play a vital role in making informed deGMWMSRWERHGSSVHMREXMRKEGXMZMXMIWXLEXFIRIƼX their communities. More than the dzongkhag administrators, local leaders such as Gups, Mangmis, and Tshogpas serve as the crucial link between the people and the

central government. They raise community issues affecting livelihoods, including human-wildPMJI GSRƽMGXW PMZIWXSGO ERH [MPHPMJI GPEWLIW natural disasters, grazing challenges, water source depletion due to climate change, and waste management concerns. Additionally, these leaders promote civic engagement in local governance and are responsible for implementing policies, laws, and regulations relevant to their local jurisdictions. +MZIR XLIMV WMKRMƼGERX VSPI XLI '31()/7 KVERXIIMHIRXMƼIHPSGEPKSZIVRQIRXPIEHIVWƂ especially those from gewogs and communiXMIW[LIVILYQER[MPHPMJIGSRƽMGXMWETVIWWing issueas key stakeholders. These leaders were interviewed to share the challenges affecting their communities. Since these communities rely heavily on livestock, which in turn depends on natural pasturelands and non-wood forest products from the Highland landscape, their input is critical. 8LI KVERXII EPWS GSRWYPXIH SƾGMEPW JVSQ the Department of Forests and

Park Services (DoFPS) to collect information, data, ERHQETWSJXLILMKLPERHEVIEW/I]SƾGMEPW working in protected areas and environmental conservation, such as JDNP, WCNP, JKSNR, and SWS, were also interviewed. In addition, community members, including cooperative groups, participated in consultation meetings to share insights about the opportunities, challenges, and pressing issues affecting their livelihoods and conservation efforts (Appendix A). 19 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 20 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 4 LANDSCAPE STRATEGY (OUTCOMES AND INDICATORS) The overarching goal of the SGP Highland Landscape Strategy is to “enhance social, economic, and ecological resilience through the sustainable management of highland landscapes through community-based activities.” To identify the critical challenges faced by these communities, a series of interviews, community workshops, and meetings with PSGEP KI[SK SƾGMEPW [IVI

GSRHYGXIH 8LMW process helped prioritize the key issues to be addressed by the SGP at the landscape level. The following sections provide expected Landscape Outcomes based on the 14 idenXMƼIHƄ4VSFPIQWƅHIZIPSTIH[MXLXLI,MKLPERH communities and stakeholders as documented in Section 3 Situation Analysis. The landscape outcomes and associated indicators for tracking progress for each ‘Problem’ have been broadly categorized under 4 of the 5 Indicators of Resilience in SEPLS main outcomes of the Highland Landscape Strategy. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Landscape diversity, ecosystem integrity and resilience, Biodiversity and Sustainable Management (Agriculture) Livelihoods and well-being Knowledge and innovation Governance and social equity. Strategy Enhance co-existence between wildlife and livestock through materialising the compensation scheme Develop preventive and responsive measures to protect crops from wildlife damage using advanced technologies and crop insurance schemes

Problem 4VSFPIQ Livestock depredation by wild animals 4VSFPIQ'VST depredation by wildlife in highland communities Reduced crop loss caused by wildlife and safeguarded farmers’ livelihoods. 4VSZMHIHƼRERGMEP protection against wildliferelated losses, offering farmers a safety net and promoted economic stability. Introduced advanced technologies to protect crops . Reduced human[MPHPMJIGSRƽMGX improved livelihoods and strengthened conservation by implementing effective compensation / insurance scheme Landscape Outcomes Percentage decrease in crop damage due XS[MPHPMJI[MXLMREWTIGMƼGXMQIJVEQI (e.g, annual reduction in damaged crop areas). ii. Number of incidents of wildlife-related crop damage reported by farmers before and after intervention. iii. Increased crop yields in areas with preventive measures (eg, electric fencing) implemented. iv. Increase in the number of farms protected by electric fencing i. Percentage reduction in livestock losses.

Initiate and increased participation of livestock farmers in compensation / insurance programs. iii. Positive shift in community attitudes towards wildlife conservation, measured through surveys and engagement in conservation programs. iv. Increase in population of wildlife species v. Initiate innovative ideas and implement to protect livestock products from bear. i. ii. Indicators Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Chhoekhor, Ura, Sephu, Phobjikha Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Chhoekhor, Merak and Sakteng Applicable to Highland Landscape Gewogs Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Indicators of Resilience (SEPLS) STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 21 Strategy Develop an integrated approach to Highland pastureland management that balances ecological sustainability and livelihood enhancement Improve storage and

transport infrastructure for livestock products to ensure quality and market access Problem 4VSFPIQ Reduction in pastureland 4VSFPIQ Lack of suitable storage and transport of livestock products i. Developed pastureland management plan using local knowledge and management practices. ii. Percentage increase in quality and area of pastureland. iii. Increased production of livestock products iv. Fodder and grass available during the dry season i. Indicators Installation of cold storage units in strategic locations. ii. )WXEFPMWLIHIƾGMIRXXVERWTSVXEXMSR systems for livestock products, ensuring Trained programs on timely and safe delivery to markets. IƾGMIRXLERHPMRKWXSVEKI iii. Number of youth/farmers trained in and transport techniques handling the cold storage. and created employment Improved product quality and reduced spoilage and increased market access Conserved highland ecosystems, protecting ƽSVEJEYREERH[EXIV resources, and promoting overall

biodiversity. Strengthened the resilience of pasturelands to climate change. Improved livestock health, increased productivity and enhanced livelihood. Promoted ecologically sustainable practices and prevented overgrazing, land degradation, and loss of biodiversity, ensuring long-term availability of pasture for livestock. Landscape Outcomes Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Chhoekhor, Merak and Sakteng Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Chhoekhor, Merak and Sakteng Applicable to Highland Landscape Gewogs Livelihoods and well-being Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Indicators of Resilience (SEPLS) 22 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE Strategy Improve processing and packaging equipment to farmers reliant on livestock and NWFP products. Strengthen marketing and value-addition for livestock and NonWood Forest

Products (NWFPs) Problem Problem  0MQited processing and packaging equipment for livestock and NWFP 4VSFPIQ0MQited marketing and value-addition to livestock and NWFP products -RGVIEWIHTVSƼXQEVKMRW by transforming raw materials into premium goods, increasing their TVSƼXEFMPMX] Increased market access and consumer demand through branding, packaging, distribution network of livestock and NWFP products. Livestock farmers built their capacity on usage and maintenance of processing and packaging. Value added livestock and NWFPs products produced, and become more competitive in domestic and international markets. %GGIWWIHXSIƾGMIRX processing and packaging equipment and increased overall productivity Landscape Outcomes Increase percentage of livestock and NWFP products processed locally. ii. Increase income generated from value-added livestock and NWFP products iii. Introduce at least 3 new value-added livestock or NWFP products to the market annually. i.

Processing and packaging machine installed. ii. Percentage increase in the number of processed livestock and NWFP products (before and after equipment access). iii. Average increase in selling prices of processed and packaged products compared to raw products. iv. Percentage increase in community income from value-added livestock and NWFP product. v. Farmers trained in operation and maintenance of machine i. Indicators Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Chhoekhor, Merak and Sakteng Applicable to Highland Landscape Gewogs Knowledge and Innovation Livelihoods and well-being Indicators of Resilience (SEPLS) STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 23 Strategy Improve access to animal husbandry and health services for livestock farmers Promote livestock farming as an attractive and

viable career option for youth Sustainable management Practices for Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPs) and Medicinal Plants to Conserve Biodiversity Problem 4VSFPIQ Limited access to animal husbandry and health services 4VSFPIQ Youth not interested in taking up the livestock activities 4VSFPIQ0SWW of biodiversity due to unsustainable collection of NWFPs and medicinal plants Sustained supply of NWFP and medicinal plants products through sustainable management practices. Provide training programs ERHƼRERGMEPWYTTSVXXS help young livestock rearing farmers adopt modern technology. Increased youth participation in livestock farming through access XSƼRERGMEPWYTTSVXERH introduction of modern technologies. Improved livestock health and productivity through increased availability of animal husbandry services Improved and increased health services to the livestock farmers Landscape Outcomes Targeted training youth on mentorship, and skill-building programs in

modern livestock practices, entrepreneurship. 8VEMRMRKTVSKVEQWERHƼRERGMEPWYTTSVX to help young livestock rearing farmers adopt at least one modern technology TIVLSYWILSPHMRXLIƼVWX]IEV Develop management plan for each NWFP and medicinal plants. ii. Volume of NWFPs and medicinal plants harvested annually as per the management prescription. iii. -HIRXMƼGEXMSRERHVIWXSVEXMSRSJHITPIXIH plants species. i. ii. i. Easy access to veterinary care, vaccinations, and disease prevention programs for livestock farmers. ii. Annual mortality rate decreased iii. 7YƾGMIRX,IEPXL[SVOIVWMRIEGLLIEPXL unit. i. Indicators Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Laya, Chhoekhor, Merak and Sakteng Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Applicable to Highland Landscape Gewogs Biodiversity and

sustainable management (agriculture) Livelihoods and well-being Livelihoods and well-being Indicators of Resilience (SEPLS) 24 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE Strategy Enhance waste management practices to promote environmental sustainability Develop and enhance ecotourism facilities that support local communities, safeguard the environment, and draw in visitors. Enhance the resilience of highland communities and ecosystems posed by prolonged dry periods caused by climate change Problem Problem 0EGOSJ effective waste management Problem 0MQMXIH ecotourism facilities and support 4VSFPIQ Longer drier months related to climate change Livelihoods and well-being Introduced effective water conservation and management systems, PIEHMRKXSQSVIIƾGMIRX water use. Increased adoption of sustainable land management practices among local farmers, resulting in enhanced soil health and

reduced erosion. Improved ecotourism facilities in highland communities, promoting sustainable tourism that FIRIƼXWPSGEPIGSRSmies, conserves natural resources, and enriches cultural heritage. Created a comprehensive framework that promotes responsible waste practices, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. Landscape Outcomes Improved waste collection and disposal system place. Number of community awareness and education on waste management. Introduced and practices 3 Rs- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Local Regulations and Policies in place and enforcing waste management regulations. Increased in land management practices such as pastureland management, etc. ii. Develop and implement management TPERWJSVMHIRXMƼIH[EXIVWSYVGIW iii. ;EXIVMWWYƾGMIRXHYVMRKXLIHVMIV months. iv. Livestock producers adopt adaptive livestock management practices related to water usage. v. Increase in the average livestock productivity (measured in terms of milk production, etc.)

i. Improve and increase homestays and related facilities ii. Percentage of ecotourism facilities that implement sustainable practices (e.g, [EWXIQEREKIQIRXIRIVK]IƾGMIRG]  iii. Number of cultural events or festivals organized annually to promote local heritage. i. iv. iii. ii. i. Indicators Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Applicable to Highland Landscape Gewogs Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Knowledge and Innovation Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Indicators of Resilience (SEPLS) STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 25 Strategy Empowerment through

education and economic opportunities Promote small businesses related to livestock, NWFP and ecotourism and creating job opportunities. Problem 4VSFPIQ Gender inequality 4VSFPIQ Rural to Urban Migration in Highland Communities Increased job opportunities, enhanced local economies, and empowered communities while preserving their cultural and natural heritage. Promoted gender equality by enhancing access to education and economic resources for women and marginalized genders, thereby fostering their empowerment and participation in all sectors of society. Landscape Outcomes Increased number of new businesses established, and jobs created. ii. Enhanced income levels for community members engaged in these businesses, leading to improved living standards. iii. Increased implementation of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in livestock management, NWFP harvesting, and ecotourism operations. iv. Percentage of households with access to clean water and

sanitation facilities. v. Number of healthcare facilities established or improved in the community vi. Percentage of children enrolled in education vii. Greater demand for locally produced goods, including livestock and NWFP, as consumers become more aware of their value and quality. i. Percentage of girls and women enrolled in primary, secondary, and higher education compared to boys and men. ii. Number of women-owned businesses registered and operational in the community. iii. Number of women accessing microfinance services or loans for business ventures. iv. Percentage of women in leadership roles across various sectors (government, business, community organizations). i. Indicators Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Soe, Naro, Lingzhi, Dagala, Bje, Katsho, Eusu, Laya, Lunana, Sephu, Phobjikha, Chhoekhor, Ura, Merak and Sakteng Applicable to Highland Landscape Gewogs Governance and Social Equity

Governance and Social Equity Indicators of Resilience (SEPLS) 26 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 5. TOPOLOGY OF POTENTIAL COMMUNITYBASED PROJECTS AND CRITERIA FOR PROJECT SELECTION 5.1 Improve natural resource base and its management M  The Highland landscape project should aim to improve the natural resource base and its QEREKIQIRX IƾGMIRG] 8LMW VIUYMVIW E FEPance between the improvement of livelihood opportunities and the conservation, protection, and promotion of highland biodiversity. 8LIWITVSNIGXMRMXMEXMZIWGSYPHMRGPYHI • Establishing community-managed forests to conserve biodiversity, prevent deforestation, and manage forest resources sustainably. • Promotion of eco-friendly farming techniques that improve the livelihood of Highland communities. • Community-based

sustainable management and commercialization of NWFPs to diversify livelihood support. • Protection of natural spring sources to ensure water availability in drought-prone highland areas. • Building resilience against the effects of climate change such as erosion control and protection from drought/water scarcity. • Capacity building through training to increase knowledge and skills in natural resource management, and water conservation techniques. • Empowering local communities to take ownership of natural resource management through the establishment of community-level committees or cooperatives responsible for the management of water, forests, and pastureland. 5.2 Improve productivity in current livelihood activities Projects will focus on improving both the quality and quantity of existing livestock production and NWFP as well as their agriculture systems. Undertaking these improvements will, importantly, create additional and more attractive employment opportunities

for the younger generation. Integral to these projects will require the improvement of essential infrastructure and services. 27 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 28 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 8LIWITVSNIGXMRMXMEXMZIWGSYPHMRGPYHI • Introduction of advanced/ modern technologies into traditional production methods in livestock and NWFP production such as processing, packing, storage to MRGVIEWIIƾGMIRG]ERHGVIEXIZEPYIEHHIH products. 5.4 Criteria to be used in evaluating projects In assessing the viability of projects, the following criteria are provided to evaluate and guide the suitability and opportunity to have a meaningful impact and successful outcome. i. Highland communities are dependent on livestock and NWFP for their livelihood. ii. Coverage of the natural resources. iii. Level/diversity of community participation (ethnicity and gender). iv. Community-based governance. v. Clarity and achievability of

objectives. vi. Clear methodology for implementation. vii. The capability of the project propoRIRXWXSJYPƼPPTVSNIGXSFNIGXMZIWMRXLI time period. Expansion of the currently small ecotourism opportunities. viii. Use of appropriate technology and indigenous knowledge. ƍ 7MKRMƼGERX IRLERGIQIRX XLVSYKL XLI GVIation of new products for the livestock, agricultural and NWFPs. ix. Nature of education, skill development and the type of trainers/educators to be used. • x. Balance between the costs and beneƼXWXSFIEGLMIZIH xi. Clear requirements for measurement of outcomes. • Introduction of marketing and branding to the Livestock and NWFP products to increase the current market for the products. • Improvement to essential services such as healthcare facilities, roads, communication networks, animal husbandry, and market linkages. 5.3 Introduction of alternative livelihood activities 8LMW GEXIKSV] JSGYWIW SR XLI WMKRMƼGERX Ipansion and enhancement

of existing livelihood and new livelihood opportunities. 8LIWITVSNIGXMRMXMEXMZIWGSYPHMRGPYHI • Capacity building through training for the local communities to undertake alternative livelihood activities. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 6 LANDSCAPE-LEVEL MONITORING AND EVALUATION PLAN Guidelines provided in the Concept of COMDEKS (Satoyama Initiatives) and the “Indicators of Resilience in Socio-ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes (SEPLS)” tools are used as the framework for the Monitoring and Evaluation Plan. The indicators are used as a self-assessment tool to engage local communities in adaptive management of the landscapes in which they live. The Indicators of Resilience in SEPLS consist of a set of 20 indicators designed to capture HMWXMRGXEWTIGXWYRHIVƼZIOI]GEXIKSVMIWERH assessment is based on a given score. The key categories and different aspects (given within brackets)

that are assessed in SEPLS EVI 1 Landscape/seascape diversity and ecosystem protection (landscape/seascape diversity, ecosystem protection, ecological interactions between different components of the landscape/seascape, recovery and regeneration of the landscape/seascape), 2 Biodiversity -including agricultural diversity (diversity of local food system, maintenance and use of local crop varieties and animal breeds, sustainable management of common resources), 3 Knowledge and innovation (Innovation in agriculture and conservation prac- tices, Traditional knowledge related to biodiversity, documentation of biodiversity-associated knowledge, women’s knowledge), 4 Governance and social equity (rights in relation to land/water and other natural resource management, community-based landscape/seascape governance, social capital in the form of cooperation across the landscape/ seascape, social equity) 5 Livelihoods and well-being (socio-economic infrastructure, human health and

environmental conditions, income diversity, biodiversity-based livelihoods, socio-ecological mobility). By using the tested methods presented in SEPLS, communities can increase their capacity to respond to social, economic and environmental pressures and shocks, to improve their environmental and economic conditions, thus increasing the social and ecological resilience of their landscapes and seascapes, and ultimately progress towards realizing a society in harmony with nature. Progress of outcome and achievements at landscape/Seascape PIZIPJSVXLIMHIRXMƼIHMWWYIWGLEPPIRKIWPMWXIH in the previous sections will be assessed using a set of key performances as listed below for selected issues. 29 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 30 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 7 LANDSCAPE-LEVEL KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT PLAN Knowledge management is a vital aspect and a crucial element of community-based projects like SGP, as it helps project members

understand the best practices to implement. To evaluate the outcomes of project interventions, it is essential to gather comprehensive baseline data on physical structures, various natural resources, the wealth of the landscape, and the socio-economic, ecological, and cultural conditions. This can be achieved XLVSYKLEHIXEMPIHVIZMI[SJTEWXVIGSVHWƼIPH observations, information collected from key stakeholders, and conducting questionnaire surveys as the primary methods. It is crucial for stakeholders at all levels, from households within a community to policymakers, to be educated and fully aware of the project’s objectives, implementation mechanisms, expected support from all parties, and anticipated outcomes at both the landscape and seascape levels. This awareness is vital, as actions in one area of the landscape can WMKRMƼGERXP] MQTEGX TISTPI FMSHMZIVWMX] ERH livelihoods throughout the region. Lessons learned from project implementation are systematically captured

and analyzed using advanced methodologies outlined in COMDEKS. This information is then shared with key stakeholders to foster learning within and among communities in the landscape. Additionally, these insights are shared within countries, where relevant, to facilitate the replication and scaling of project outcomes and to inform policymakers about potential amendments or the development of new policies. Designating project sites as demonstration areas and training centers enables surrounding local communities to engage in peer-topeer knowledge exchanges and provides a platform for policymakers to observe effective methods and technologies developed by these communities. These demonstration sites and knowledge exchanges play a pivotal role in raising awareness and building the capacities of local communities regarding critical environmental and development issues at the landscape and seascape levels. During project execution, it is essential to establish productive multi-stakeholder

partnerships with local governments, national agencies, ministries, civil society organizations, the private sector, and other entities. These collaborations facilitate support for community organizations implementing project activities and allow for the periodic updating of project outcomes, which serves as an effective means of disseminating and sharing results. Such partnerships, along with long-standing collaborative arrangements around secXSVWTIGMƼG MRMXMEXMZIW MR VYVEP PERHWGETIW create a dynamic foundation of programs and relationships upon which future GEF efforts can build, linking with ongoing government projects and justifying budget allocations for new initiatives of this nature. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 8 COMDEKS indicators Landscape Outcomes Indicators Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) i. ii. 6IHYGIHLYQER[MPHPMJIGSRƽMGXMQTVSZIH livelihoods and

strengthened conservation by implementing effective compensation / insurance scheme Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Reduced crop loss caused by wildlife and safeguarded farmers’ livelihoods. 4VSZMHIHƼRERGMEPTVSXIGXMSREKEMRWX[MPHPMJIVIlated losses, offering farmers a safety net and promoted economic stability. Percentage reduction in livestock losses. Initiate and increased participation of livestock farmers in compensation /insurance programs. iii. Positive shift in community attitudes towards wildlife conservation, measured through surveys and engagement in conservation programs. iv. 2YQFIVSJWMKRMƼGERXWTIGMIW[MXLQEMRXEMRIHSVMQTVSZIH conservation status v. Increase in population of wildlife species vi. Initiate innovative ideas and implement to protect livestock products from bear. vii. Increased livestock production and increased income i. Percentage decrease in crop damage due to wildlife within a WTIGMƼGXMQIJVEQI

IKERRYEPVIHYGXMSRMRHEQEKIHGVST areas). ii. Number of incidents of wildlife-related crop damage reported by farmers before and after intervention. iii. Increased crop yields in areas with preventive measures (eg, electric fencing) implemented. iv. Increase in the number of farms protected by electric fencing v. Initiate crop insurance scheme Introduced advanced technologies to protect crops . Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Promoted ecologically sustainable practices and prevented overgrazing, land degradation, and loss of biodiversity, ensuring long-term availability of pasture for livestock. Improved livestock health, increased productivity and enhanced livelihood. Strengthened the resilience of pasturelands to climate change. 'SRWIVZIHLMKLPERHIGSW]WXIQWTVSXIGXMRKƽSra, fauna, and water resources, and promoting overall biodiversity. i. Developed pastureland management plan using local knowledge and management practices. ii. Percentage

increase in quality and area of pastureland iii. Increased production of livestock products iv. Fodder and grass available during the dry season 31 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 32 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Landscape Outcomes Indicators Livelihoods and well-being i. Improved product quality and reduced spoilage ii. and increased market access 8VEMRIHTVSKVEQWSRIƾGMIRXLERHPMRKWXSVEKI iii. and transport techniques and created employment Livelihoods and well-being %GGIWWIHXSIƾGMIRXTVSGIWWMRKERHTEGOEKMRK equipment and increased overall productivity Value added livestock and NWFPs products produced, and become more competitive in domestic and international markets. Livestock farmers built their capacity on usage and maintenance of processing and packaging. i. ii. Knowledge and Innovation Increased market access and consumer demand through branding, packaging, distribution network of livestock and NWFP products.

-RGVIEWIHTVSƼXQEVKMRWF]XVERWJSVQMRKVE[ materials into premium goods, increasing their TVSƼXEFMPMX] i. Livelihoods and well-being Improved livestock health and productivity through increased availability of animal husbandry services Improved and increased health services to the livestock farmers i. Livelihoods and well-being Increased youth participation in livestock farmMRKXLVSYKLEGGIWWXSƼRERGMEPWYTTSVXERH introduction of modern ttechnologies. i. Installation of cold storage units in strategic locations. )WXEFPMWLIHIƾGMIRXXVERWTSVXEXMSRW]WXIQWJSVPMZIWXSGO products, ensuring timely and safe delivery to markets. Number of youth/farmers trained in handling the cold storage. Processing and packaging machine installed. Percentage increase in the number of processed livestock and NWFP products (before and after equipment access). iii. Average increase in selling prices of processed and packaged products compared to raw products. iv. Percentage increase in

community income from value-added livestock and NWFP product. v. Farmers trained in operation and maintenance of machine Increase percentage of livestock and NWFP products processed locally. ii. Increase income generated from value-added livestock and NWFP products. iii. Introduce at least 3 new value-added livestock or NWFP products to the market annually. Easy access to veterinary care, vaccinations, and disease prevention programs for livestock farmers. ii. Annual mortality rate decreased iii. 7YƾGMIRX,IEPXL[SVOIVWMRIEGLLIEPXLYRMX ii. Targeted training youth on mentorship, and skill-building programs in modern livestock practices, entrepreneurship. 8VEMRMRKTVSKVEQWERHƼRERGMEPWYTTSVXXSLIPT]SYRKPMZIstock rearing farmers adopt at least one modern technology TIVLSYWILSPHMRXLIƼVWX]IEV 4VSZMHIXVEMRMRKTVSKVEQWERHƼRERGMEPWYTTSVX to help young livestock rearing farmers adopt modern technology. Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Sustained

supply of NWFP and medicinal plants products through sustainable management practices. Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Created a comprehensive framework that promotes responsible waste practices, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. i. Develop management plan for each NWFP and medicinal plants. ii. Volume of NWFPs and medicinal plants harvested annually as per the management prescription. iii. -HIRXMƼGEXMSRERHVIWXSVEXMSRSJHITPIXIHTPERXWWTIGMIW i. ii. Improved waste collection and disposal system place. Number of community awareness and education on waste management. iii. Introduced and practices 3 Rs- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle in the community. iv. Local Regulations and Policies in place and enforcing waste management regulations. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Landscape Outcomes Indicators Knowledge and Innovation i. Improved ecotourism facilities in

highland communities, promoting sustainable tourism that FIRIƼXWPSGEPIGSRSQMIWGSRWIVZIWREXYVEP resources, and enriches cultural heritage. Biodiversity and sustainable management (agriculture) Increased adoption of sustainable land management practices among local farmers, resulting in enhanced soil health and reduced erosion. Introduced effective water conservation and QEREKIQIRXW]WXIQWPIEHMRKXSQSVIIƾGMIRX water use. Improve and increase number of homestays and related facilities ii. Percentage of ecotourism facilities that implement sustainEFPITVEGXMGIW IK[EWXIQEREKIQIRXIRIVK]IƾGMIRG] etc.) iii. Number of cultural events or festivals organized annually to promote local heritage. i. Increased in land management practices such as pastureland management, etc. ii. (IZIPSTERHMQTPIQIRXQEREKIQIRXTPERWJSVMHIRXMƼIH water sources. iii. ;EXIVMWWYƾGMIRXHYVMRKXLIHVMIVQSRXLW iv. Livestock producers adopt adaptive livestock management practices related

to water usage. v. Increase in the average livestock productivity (measured in terms of milk production, etc.) Governance and Social Equity Promoted gender equality by enhancing access to education and economic resources for women and marginalized genders, thereby fostering their empowerment and participation in all sectors of society. i. Governance and Social Equity i. Increased job opportunities, enhanced local economies, and empowered communities while preserving their cultural and natural heritage. Percentage of girls and women enrolled in primary, secondary, and higher education compared to boys and men. ii. Number of women-owned businesses registered and operational in the community iii. 2YQFIVSJ[SQIREGGIWWMRKQMGVSƼRERGIWIVZMGIWSVPSERW for business ventures. iv. Percentage of women in leadership roles across various sectors (government, business, community organizations). Increased number of new businesses established, and jobs created. ii. Enhanced income levels

for community members engaged in these businesses, leading to improved living standards. iii. Increased implementation of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in livestock management, NWFP harvesting, and ecotourism operations. iv. Percentage of households with access to clean water and sanitation facilities. v. Number of healthcare facilities established or improved in the community. vi. Percentage of children enrolled in education vii. Greater demand for locally produced goods, including livestock and NWFP, as consumers become more aware of their value and quality. 33 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 Tshewang Tshering Nima 1 Gewog administrator Gewog administrator Wangdi Gewog administrator Gado Gewog administrator Kencho Dorji Gewog administrator Gyem Gewog Tshering administrator Tshewang Gewog administrator Kaka Gewog administrator Sangla Gewog administrator Passang Gewog administrator Dawa Tsher- Gewog ing administrator Bachu Phub Dzongdag Rinzin

Rinzin Dorji Chief Forestry 3ƾGIV Ugyen Chief Forestry Wangchuk 3ƾGIV Stakeholder Organisation / Name Group No. Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Local Government Dzongkhag Administration Jigme Dorji National Park Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve Category Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Rural Community Governmet Policy Government Policy Government Policy Sector Highland Community Engagement Region Type Dzongkhag (District) Gewogs (Sub- Districts) Sakteng, Trashigang Community Consultation Merak, Trashigang Comm Consultation Lingzhi, Thimphu Over the Telephone Dagala,Thimphu Over the Telephone Soe, Thimphu Over the Telephone Naro, Thimphu Over the Telephone Laya, Gasa Comm Consultation Lunana, Gasa Over the Telephone

Choekhor, Bumthang Over the Telephone Bji, Haa Over the Telephone Sephu, WangduephoOver the drang Telephone Wangduephodrang Over the Telephone Soe, Naro, Lingzhi Over the Telephone Haa and Samtse Communication consultation 9 APPENDIX A: LIST OF STAKEHOLDERS Key player in ƼIPH Key Player in ƼIPH Key Player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Key player in ƼIPH Meet their needs Key player in ƼIPH Key Player in XLIƼIH Stakeholder Analysis Group Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Initiation Phase Data Collection Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes M and E Phase Data Collection(future) 34 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE Sangay Wangchuk Tshewang Namgyel Tenizn Jampa Phuntsho Norbu Jamtsho Sonam Tobgay 15 16 17 18 19 20

Gewog Administrator Chief Forestry 3ƾGIV Gewog Administrator/ Chairperson, District Assembly Gewog Administration Ranger Ranger Local Government DoFPS Local Government Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve Local Government Rural Community Government Rural Community Rural Community Government Policy Government Policy Phobjikha, Wangduephodrang Thimphu Katsho, Haa Uesu, Haa Haa and Samtse Haa and Samtse Communication Consultation Over the Phone In person Communication consultation Communication Consultation Communication Consultation Key player in XLIƼIPH Key player Key Player in XLIƼIPH Key Player in XLIƼIPH Key Player in XLIƼIPH Key Player in XLIƼIPH Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 35 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 36 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA

OF BHUTAN 10 Appendix B: Information on physical setting, demography and culture, infrastructure and public facilities, climate, forest and biodiversity, Socio-economic status and main livelihood activities, issues and challenges, and opportunities od each dzongkhag selected for this study 10.1 Bumthang Dzongkhag Chhoekhor and Ura Gewogs The green shaded on Map No. 1 is showing the gewogs selected for this study. Somthrang, Tangsibi, Shingkhar, Ura-Doshi and Shingnyeer and 10 villages Tangsibi, Shingnyeer, Shingkhar, Pangkhar, Somthrang, Beteng, Trabi, Tarshong, Toepa and Chari. This beautiful valley, home to one of Bhutan’s largest clustered villages. Physical setting Chhoekhor GewogɸMWPSGEXIHMR2SVXLIVRTEVX of Bumthang Dzongkhag and is the biggest of the four gewogs in the Dzongkhag. The gewog borders Chumme Gewog to the southwest, Ura Gewog to the southeast, Trongsa Dzongkhag to the west, Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag to northwest, Tibet to the north, Lhuentse Dzongkhag to the

northeast, and Tang Gewog to the east. Total area coverage is approximately 1,533 square kilometres (Sq. km) Its altitude VERKIW JVSQɸ  QIXIVWɸ EFSZI WIE PIZIP-R'LLSIOLSV+I[SKXLIVIEVIɸZMPPEKIWɸ[MXLɸ8WLSKTEWEFSYXɸLSYWILSPHW Ura Gewog has an area of 265.6 sqkm and located in the southeastern part of Bumthang District with 48km distance from Dzongkhag. It is bordered by Chhoekhor and Chhumig gewog to the west, Tang gewog to the north, Zhemgang and Mongar District to the south and Lhuentse Distict to the east. The altitude of the gewog is 3100 meter above sea level. There are 5 chiwogs Beteng-Pangkhar- Map No. 1: Chhoekhor and Ura Gewogs selected for this study STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Demography and Culture Chhoekhor gewogs has 661 household with a population of 8756 (3800 female and 4956 male). There number of festivals in Chhoekhor Gewog are Pedseling,

Kuchoe, Kurje Tshechu, Tamzhing Phala, ChoepaThangbi, Mewang, Jakar Tsechu, Jampa Lhakhang DrupNgang Lhakhang Zhe. There are also local festivals celebrated annually in most of the Lhakhangs. Ura gewog has total household of 510 with a total population of 4951 with 2404 female and 2554 male. There are 9 community-owned lhakhang and 9 private lhakhang. There are 4 Gomdeys. The Ura Yakchoe is an annual festival observed by the Ura Dozhi village. A local village affair, it is said to have started as a commemoration of Guru Rinpoche’s arrival in the village to help residents overcome an epidemic. The main part of the festival is GSQTVMWIHSJƼZIHE]WSJTYFPMGTIVJSVQERGIW7EGVIHQEWOHERGIWJSPOHERGIWEɸXLSRKHVSPɸ HMWTPE] ERH E VIPMKMSYW GIVIQSR] XLEX forms the core part of the festival, as well as a tradition of making rounds to local homes for alcohol and food. ing opportunities for the community. The gewog is also equipped with various facilities that support

agriculture, livestock, and forestry, including the RNR Research Centre of the Central Region, Regional Veterinary Laboratory, Brown Swiss Breeding Farm, Territorial *SVIWX(MZMWMSR3ƾGI2EXMSREPSHHIV'IRXVI Veterinary Hospital, Livestock Extension Centre, and Agriculture Extension Centre. These facilities contribute to the gewog’s economic development and provide essential services to the community. In terms of infrastructure, Chhoekhor Gewog has achieved 100% coverage of telecommunication, internet, and electricity, ensuring that residents have access to modern amenities and connectivity. Similarly, Ura Gewog has a strong educational foundation, with three schools, including Tangsibi Primary School, Shingnyeer Extended Classroom, and Ura Central School. The gewog is also well-connected, with 100% elecXVMƼGEXMSR ERH EGGIWW XS XIPIGSQQYRMGEXMSR and internet services. Notably, the Prumshing National Park (PNP) Head Quarters is located within the gewog, highlighting the

region’s commitment to conservation and environmental protection. Infrastructure and Public Facilities Climate of the area Chhoekhor Gewog has array of educational institutions, including 7 schools, 4 Out Reach Clinics (ORCs), and 4 community schools, namely Zangtherpo, Dhur, Kharsat, and Chhoekotoe. Additionally, the gewog is home to Gangrithang Primary School, Wangdhicholing Lower Secondary School, and a higher school at Jakar. Furthermore, there are 7 non-formal education centers, providing alternative learn- Chhoekhor lies at the altitude more than 2800 masl and is colder than other gewogs. An average mean temperature across the gewog of around -2.4°C and highs of up to 5°C in March Minimum temperatures average around -9.8°C from north to south of the gewog, and with as much as 41mm of rain, the humidity is already starting to exceed 44 percent. In the summer months starting June average mean 37 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE

38 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN temperature of around 7.7°C, the rainfall also increases to as high as 78mm for the entire month. Humidity is high in June at around 68 percent on average, with high temperatures averaging up to 12.3°C and lows of just 39°C at night on average. Ura Gewog lies at the altitude of 3100 meter above sea level. Average rainfall annually is 7 mm and average low temperature is 5.20C and the lowest temperature recorded was -7.90C Table No 1 shows the monthly average precipitation and rainfall Table No. 1: Rainfall and Temperature of Ura (Source: (Weather and Climate - The Global Historical Weather and Climate Data, Access on 12/10/24) Month Record high °C (°F) Average high °C (°F) Daily mean °C (°F) Average low °C (°F) Record low °C (°F) Average precipitation mm (inches) Average precipitation days ƶQQ Average relative humidity (%) Mean monthly sunshine hours Jan 16.91 (62.44) 5.45 (41.81) 2.09 (35.76) -2.67 (27.19) -7.96

(17.67) 12.71 (0.5) 3.25 56.8 8.41 Feb 14.93 (58.87) 7.49 (45.48) 4.09 (39.36) -1.07 (30.07) -6.96 (19.47) 23.2 (0.91) 4.89 57.83 8.32 Mar 17.91 (64.24) 9.61 (49.3) 6.44 (43.59) 1.25 (34.25) -5.97 (21.25) 38.43 (1.51) 10.5 61.69 11.01 Apr 19.9 (67.82) 12.25 (54.05) 9.4 (48.92) 4.85 (40.73) 0.0 (0) 62.76 (2.47) 14.48 64.7 12.43 May 19.9 (67.82) 14.53 (58.15) 12.08 (53.74) 7.94 (46.29) 2.98( 37.36) 89.84 (3.54) 16.1 71.35 12.79 Jun 23.88 (74.98) 16.87 (62.37) 14.56 (58.21) 10.96 (51.73) 0.99 (33.78) 113.53 (4.47) 19.81 77.0 12.77 Jul 23.88 (74.98) 17.02 (62.64) 14.91 (58.84) 11.85 (53.33) 2.98 (37.36) 187.83 (7.39) 24.33 81.84 12.17 Aug 23.88 (74.98) 18.0 (64.4) 15.4 (59.72) 11.8 (53.24) 7.96 (46.33) 155.43 (6.12) 20.26 78.81 12.32 Sep 22.89 (73.2) 16.22 (61.2) 13.74 (56.73) 10.28 (50.5) 2.98 (37.36) 117.07 (4.61) 16.56 79.32 11.42 Oct 20.89 (69.6) 13.52 (56.34) 10.47 (50.85) 5.69 (42.24) -0.99

(30.22) 36.76 (1.45) 6.79 70.92 10.04 Nov 17.91 (64.24) 10.56 (51.01) 7.21 (44.98) 2.18 (35.92) -2.98 (26.64) 8.81 (0.35) 2.9 68.89 8.5 Dec 15.92 (60.66) 7.83 (46.09) 4.32 (39.78) -0.62 (30.88) -7.96 (17.67) 6.02 (0.24) 1.9 64.09 8.49 Year 23.88 (74.98)          (2.8)    STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Forests and biodiversity Chhoekhor +I[SK LEW E WMKRMƼGERX TSVXMSR of its land, approximately 33%, under forest cover, as reported by Global Forest Watch (accessed on 11/09/2024). The forests in this region, situated between 2700-2850m, serve as a transitional zone between the broadleaf forests of lower elevations and the temperate conifers of higher elevations. A notable feature of the Chokhor area is the dominance of Quercus semicarpifolia in the top canopy, accompanied by a diverse array of species such as Acer

campbelli, Rhododendron arboreum, 6LSHSHIRHVSR LSHKWSRMM )ROMERXLYW HIƽIus, Pieris formosa, and Sorbus cuspidate in the mid-canopy. The lower parts of the valley are characterized by bamboo thickets, primarily composed of Yushania microphylla, while the higher elevations feature tall growths of Borinda grossa and Dendrocalamus sp. Additionally, pockets of blue pine (Pinus wallichiana) form mono-species stand along the ridges. In the elevation range of 2700 to 3200m, the forests consist of mono-species stands of spruce (Picea spinulosa) or hemlock (Tsuga dumosa), often intermixed with blue pine in the lower elevations of Tang and Chokhor, and with larch (0EVM KVMƾXLMM in the higher elevations. The undergrowth is comprised of shrubby species such as Lindera heterophylPE)PEIEKRYWTEVZMƽSVE6SWEWIVMGIE&IVFIVMW aristata, and Daphne bhoula, as well as climber species like Clematis montana and Holbolia latifolia. However, intensive grazing has led to the creation of dwarf

bamboo thickets of Yushania microphylla, which dominate open areas. Ura Gewog has an impressive 79% of its land under forest cover, as reported by Global Forest Watch (accessed on 11/09/2024). As part of the Prumshingla National Park, Ura’s forests are characterized by a diverse range of WTIGMIWMRGPYHMRKFPYITMRIQMIHGSRMJIVƼV and rhododendron shrubs. The village is surVSYRHIH F] JSVIWXW SJ WTVYGI TMRI PEVGL ƼV juniper, bamboo, and rhododendrons, which provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, bears, boars, and red pandas. The Chamkhar Chu river, which originates near 1SRPE/EVGLYRKƽS[WXLVSYKLXLI&YQXLERK valley and is joined by various tributaries. After passing through the Chhoekhor valley, it converges with other major rivers in Bumthang before merging with the Mangde Chhu and eventually joining the Manas and BrahmapuXVE VMZIVW YPXMQEXIP] ƽS[MRK MRXS XLI &E] SJ Bengal. While the Chumkhar Chhu river is

utilized for some agricultural irrigation purposes, its primary value lies in its aesthetic appeal, contributing to the beauty of the Bumthang tourist valley. Notably, the river has been desMKREXIH EW E JVIIƽS[MRK VMZIV ERH XLIVI EVI no signs of risk associated with it. Socio-economic status and main livelihood activities The primary socio-economic activities in Chhoekhor Gewog are farming and livestock rearing. As the Dzongkhag headquarters, the gewog hosts the main urban center, where many residents operate small businesses and small-scale industries. The main food crops grown in Chhoekhor Gewog include wheat, barley, and oil seeds, while the primary cash 39 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 40 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN crops are potatoes and vegetables. According to the 2023 gewog information, Chhoekhor Gewog has reported the following production quantities of crops and livestock products in 8EFPI2S Table No. 2 :

Crops and Vegetable production of Chhoekhor Gewog in 2023 (Source: Gewog Information) as highland yaks, and many families also kept ƽSGOWSJWLIIT,SVWIW[IVI[MHIP]YWIHEW pack animals. Some of the main crops and ZIKIXEFPIKVS[RMR9VEEVIMR8EFPI2S Table No. 3 : Crops and Vegetable production of Ura Gewog in 2023 (Source: Gewog Information) Crops and vegetables Cultivation of land (acres) Quantity (Metric tons) Barley 76.19 41.92 Buckwheat 42.64 22.2 26.19 Wheat 42 22 79.95 Potato 7 980 56.65 26.19 Radish 10.48 16.48 11.89 610.45 Cabbage 7.47 17.12 Radish 5 8.59 Chili 2.83 8.52 Cabbage 5 10.42 Turnip 19 49.97 Chili 24.27 80.8 Turnip 49.98 215.95 Crops and vegetables Cultivation of land (acres) Quantity (Metric tons) Barley 44.29 21.38 Buckwheat 56.65 Paddy 47 Wheat Potato Chhoekhor gewog health coverage is about 132 HH per Health Assistance. However, the main district hospital is within Chhoekhor gewog, patients can

be easily be referred to that. Under the Chhoekhor gewog there are 2277 student in 2019 with 1115 boys (49%) and 1162 (51%). The student to teacher ratio MW  [LMGL MW JEMVP] KSSH GSZIVEKI FEWIH on gewog information of 2019) Ura people were generally farmers practicing agriculture and animal husbandry although many men in past also served as religious priests and government functionaries. People cultivated bitter buckwheat, sweet buckwheat, wheat, barley and many kinds of vegetables and fruits. They reared lowland cattle as well Ura people also collect mushroom for income generation. Matsutake (tricholoma matsutake) mushroom is one of the main sources for cash generation. Ura people begin Matsutake collection in July every year. Ura is also considered the hotspot for the mushroom and celebrates Matsutake festival every August every year. Ura has over 30 specimens of edible mushrooms. Matsutake is one of the chief sources of income. The communities use income from sale of

Matsutake to meet children’s expenses, basic essentials and to conduct annual rituals, among others. Under Ura gewog, there is total of 476 students with 229 (48%) boys and 247 (52%) girls MR8LIWXYHIRXXSXIEGLIVVEXMSMW which is very good. The health coverage of the gewog is 63 HH per health worker. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Issues / Challenges • ,YQER[MPHPMJIGSRƽMGX'VSTPSWWERHPMZIstock predation by wild animals is a growing issue. Free range grazing is a driving factor for loss of livestock to predations. For the crop loss and damage by the wild animals, the only intervention adopted so far is solar-electric fencing. • Drinking water shortage • Grazing/ pasture land destroyed by wild boar and destruction of pastureland by ƽEWLƽSSHWSRILETTIRIHMR • Extreme weather such as too much rain and snow, long dry season • These various group of

communities, apart from the commuters, are assumed to be a major source of garbage and waste Opportunities • Improve livestock products through using advance machineries for value addition and capacity building • Improve water supply for sanitation and drinking • Improve incense making by introducing advance technologies for processing and packaging • 6IHYGI LYQER[MPHPMJI GSRƽMGX 6IZMI[ existing crop protection measures and initiate innovative crop loss mitigation strategies. Establish alternative enterprise development for employment and income generation like ecotourism. Promote alternative source of income through establishment of ecotourism products • Enhancing proper waste management and environmental education through development and placing signages along the main high ways and roads and interpretation boards. Environmental education and awareness in the schools, road workers and local communities. Strengthen community involvement for waste management

and routine cleaning in their vicinity 10.2 Gasa Dzongkhag - Laya and Lunana Gewogs Two gewogs, Laya and Lunana, under Gasa (^SRKOLEKLEZIFIIRMHIRXMƼIHJSVXLMWWXYH] as they are considered highland areas. Physical setting Under Gasa Dzongkhags, Laya and Lunana Gewogs are selected for this study (Map No. 1) 41 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 42 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Map No. 1: Laya and Lunana Map under Gasa Dzongkhag (shaded) Laya Gewog is situated in the northwestern region of Gasa Dzongkhag, with Lunana being the largest and Laya the second-largest among the four gewogs in the dzongkhag. Notably, Laya shares an international border with Tibet to the north. The gewog spans an approximate area of 981.5 square kilometers (242,52865 acres) Laya is distinguished by the presence of several religious centers, including Yongzog Lhakhang, Jangchhub Chhoeling Lhakhang, Jagchhey Lhakhang, Trashi Lhakhang, Lungo Dhongo Lhakhang,

Lungo Lhakhang, and Zogchhen Chhoeling Lhakhang. Laya are falls inside the Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP). Laya community settlement is above 3,800 meter above mean sea level. Lunana Gewog is situated in the far northwest of the country, spanning an area of 1,716.26 square kilometers at an elevation of 3,400 meters above sea level. It shares borders with Laya Gewog to the west, Goen Shari in Punakha Dzongkhag to the southwest, Sephu Gewog in Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag to the southwest, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north. Approximately half of the gewog is within the Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP), while the remaining half lies within Wangchuck Centennial National Park (WCNP). Demography and Culture Laya +I[SK EGGSVHMRK XS XLI +I[SK TVSƼPI from the National Statistical Bureau (NSB) in 2023 and local leaders, Laya has 304 households and a population of 1,075, consisting of 579 males and 496 females. The population has remained stable between 2018 and 2023,

WLS[MRKRSWMKRMƼGERXKVS[XLSVHIGPMRI8LI Layap people, who are semi-nomadic, have STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN their own distinct language, customs, and traditional dress. With a population of about 1,000, they migrate between yak camps, their village, and lower-altitude towns during winter, where they stay with host families, exchanging labor and yak products for shelter. The Layap also celebrate Auley, an annual festival aimed at promoting communal peace, prosperity, and harmonious coexistence. Lunana Gewog is home to 233 households, with a population of over 810 individuals, comprising 341 females and 399 males, as per the 2023 NSB report. This region is renowned for its distinctive culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and traditional way of life, which sets it apart from the rest of Bhutan. The local populace practices a unique blend of Buddhism and Animism, paying homage to local deities and

spirits. Throughout the year, they celebrate numerous festivals, including the highly popular Yak and Snowman Trek, which EXXVEGXWEWMKRMƼGERXRYQFIVSJXSYVMWXW Trekking is a prevalent activity in the area, with the Snowman Trek being one of the most challenging routes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the village’s culture and traditions by participating in local festivals and visiting traditional homes and monasteries. The residents of Lunana predominantly speak Dzongkha with a distinctive accent, as well as their own local dialect. The gewog is home to several notable religious sites, including Tshojong Dzong, Lhondrel Lhakhang, Dzongridrag Lhakhang, and Ramina Lhakhang. In terms of infrastructure, approximately 68.72% of the area is covered by telecommunication facilities, with mobile networks available, and the gewog boasts 100% solar lighting coverage. The people of Laya and Lunana are yak herding communities with traditional grazing rights over pasturelands, locally

known as Tsamdro, inherited from their ancestors (DoFPS, 2021). Polygamy is practiced in these highland communities, primarily to pool manpower and retain family properties (DoFPS, 2021). Rice is the staple food of most highland communities. The barter system is still prevalent in Laya (n = 105) and Naro (n = 1) gewogs. Naro gewog falls under Thimphu Dzongkhag. Highlanders typically exchange incense for rice and chili, followed by butter, cheese, and “Chugo” (Dendup et al., 2021a) Infrastructure and public facilities It appears that you have provided information about the infrastructure and facilities available in two gewogs (sub-districts) in Bhutan, namely Laya and Lunana. Here is a summary SJXLIMRJSVQEXMSR Laya Gewog: Laya Lower Secondary School Lungo Early Childhood Center Basic Health Unit 6IRI[EFPI 2EXYVEP 6IWSYVGIW SƾGIW JSV agriculture and livestock • 100% electricity connectivity • 90% telecommunication facilities coverage • • • • Lunana Gewog:

• Primary school in Lhedi • Extended classroom in Tshojong • Basic Health Unit in Lhedi 43 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 44 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN • 6IRI[EFPI2EXYVEP6IWSYVGIWSƾGI[MXL E0MZIWXSGO)XIRWMSR3ƾGIV • +I[SK%HQMRMWXVEXMSR3ƾGIMR8LERKS tricts across all three scenarios (National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology, 2024). Forests and Biodiversity Climate of the area Laya Gewog experiences a temperate climate, GLEVEGXIVM^IH F] JSYV HMWXMRGX WIEWSRW WYQmer, autumn, winter, and spring. The summer months are marked by cool temperatures, while winters are cold, dry, and snowy. According to data from the Department of Forests and Park Services (2021), the average temperature in Laya ranges from a minimum of -0.7°C to a maximum of 2093°C, with average rainfall varying from 0.1 mm to 97 mm Lunana Gewog has a climate that ranges from temperate to alpine, with extremely cold winters and

short, pleasant summers. The area experiences heavy snowfall during the winter months, rendering it snowbound and making mountain passes inaccessible to neighboring gewogs and dzongkhags. Lunana receives an average annual rainfall of 2,000 mm. Gasa Gewog experiences the highest number SJVEMR]HE]W[MXLHE]WSJVEMRJEPP HIƼRIH as rainfall greater than or equal to 1 mm) per year. However, it is important to note that a greater number of rainy days does not necessarily translate to more accumulated rainfall (National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology, 2023). Projections indicate that the region is expected to experience an increase in rainy days under higher emission scenarios by 2100. Furthermore, Wangduephodrang, Gasa, Punakha, Thimphu, Paro, Dagana, Chukha, Trongsa, and Samtse are expected to receive comparatively higher rainfall than other dis- The forest area of Gasa Dzongkhag spans 65,468.32 hectares, accounting for 2056% of the total forest cover (Department of Forests

and Park Services, 2023). Laya Gewog is characterized by a minimal conifer zone and approximately 90% alpine area, where Rhododendron plants are the primary vegetation. Notably, Laya is situated within the Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP), which is renowned as the conservation jewel of the eastern Himalayas. JDNP is distinguished from other protected areas in Bhutan by its unique feature of harFSVMRK XLVII REXMSREP W]QFSPW XLI REXMSREP animal (takin, Budorcas taxicolor whitei), the national bird (raven, Corvus corax), and the national tree (cypress, Cupressus corneyana). Furthermore, it is the only park where endangered species such as the Royal Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), Asiatic wild dogs (Cuon alpinus), and the vulnerable snow leopard (Panthera uncia) coexist (Department of Forests and Park Services, 2021). Lunana Gewog boasts approximately 80% forest cover and is home to a diverse array of bird and animal species, including takin, musk deer, blue sheep, snow

leopard, red pandas, raven, wild pheasants, snow pigeons, redbilled chough, Himalayan black bear, tiger, and black-necked crane. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Both Laya and Lunana are situated within the highland areas of JDNP, which also encompasses Soe, Naro, and Lingzhi of Thimphu. The park is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, featuring 1,434 species of vascular plants (including over 200 medicinal species), 50 mammals, 407 birds, four wild bees, 184 FYXXIVƽMIWEQTLMFMERWVITXMPIWERH WTIGMIW SJ HVEKSRƽMIW ERH HEQWIPƽMIW (Ipartment of Forests and Park Services, 2021). In terms of conservation status, the park is LSQIXSƼZIIRHERKIVIH )2 WMZYPRIVEFPI (VU), and nine near-threatened (NT) species of mammals, as well as one critically endangered (CR), two EN, three VU, and seven NT species of birds (Department of Forests and Park Services, 2021). Regarding the glacial lakes

in the Lunana region, while most do not pose an immediate threat, two lakes, Raphstreng Tsho and Thorthormi (Thortomi) Tsho, located at the source of the Pho Chhu, are considered risky. The latter is predicted to burst in 15 to 20 years, as reported by numerous expeditions in the LuREREEVIEJSPPS[MRKXLIƽSSH8LIƽSSH from the Luggye Tsho had damaged the dams of the Raphstreng Tsho, prompting mitigation work by an Indo-Bhutan team in 1996 to reduce the “hydrostatic pressure” on the weakened dam (LXXTW[[[VESRPMRIGLTEKIW story/bt/btbg glacier02a.html, accessed on 20/9/24). Additionally, two major lakes, Sethag Burge Tsho and Simdong Goi Tsho, are located in the region, with the former situated below the Tshenda Gang range and the latter between Wochey and the Wagye La pass, the oldest route to Lhasa (LXXTW[[[VESRPMRI ch/pages/story/bt/btbg glacier02a.html, accessed on 20/9/24) Socio-economic status and main Livelihood Activities The primary sources of

livelihood for the communities in Laya and Lunana Gewogs are livestock farming, harvesting non-wood forest products (NWFPs), and cultivating agricultural crops. The highlanders in these alpine regions rely heavily on yaks and their products, adopting semi-nomadic lifestyles. In addition to livestock, they collect and sell NWFPs, such EW'SVH]GITWERHMRGIRWI[LMGLWMKRMƼGERXP] contribute to their income. Laya is renowned for its yak herding and breeding, with yaks being the main source of income. The yaks provide essential products like yak butter, cheese, meat, and wool, which is used to create fabrics, ropes, blankets, and tents. The community also cultivates barley, wheat, and other crops, with notable producXMSRƼKYVIWMRMRGPYHMRKQIXVMGXSRW of barley, 5.82 metric tons of wheat, and 582 metric tons of buckwheat. Lunana faces harsh climate and prolonged winters limit agricultural production, with a focus on dryland crops like wheat, buckwheat, and small-scale

horticulture. The community relies heavily on Cordyceps and livestock products, which they barter with neighboring gewogs and dzongkhags. Some residents migrate to lower valleys during the winter months. Both gewogs collect NWFPs, including Cordyceps, 4MGVSVLM^EWGVSTLYPEVMMƽSVE, and incense QEXIVMEPW [LMGL LEZI WMKRMƼGERXP] GSRXVMFYXed to their livelihood. Cordyceps, in particular, is a lucrative source of income, with a recent 45 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 46 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN socio-economic survey revealing that park residents earned Nu. 4778 million from its sale in 2019. Other medicinal plants, such as 2EVHSWXEGL]W KVERHMƽSVE and Picrorhiza kurroa, have also generated substantial income. The collection and sale of these medicinal plants have improved household income and living standards in the highland communities. For instance, in Laya, many households can now afford multiple homes, and the trend of

splitting large family units into smaller households is on the rise In terms of education, there are 242 students in both gewogs, with a student-to-teacher VEXMS SJ  MRHMGEXMRK IGIPPIRX GSZIVEKI However, the health coverage per staff is 58 households, which may be challenging given the terrain and high mountains. Issues and Challenges Several issues and challenges have been MHIRXMƼIHFEWIHSRPMXIVEXYVIVIZMI[WERH MRXIVZMI[W[MXLWXEOILSPHIVWMRGPYHMRK · Similarly, Laya attracts tourists, especially during the Highland Festival held annually in October, and many Layaps own eco-lodges and home-stays, but these are not up to the standards expected by tourists. Footpaths and trekking routes in other areas need to be constructed or improved, as many have been damaged by rain and landslides. To attract tourists, it is crucial to provide basic facilities, including toilets, along the trekking routes and footpaths. · Occasional disputes between communities over grazing

territory and encroachment. · Yak herders maintain pasturelands by clearing and burning bushes and trees, often violating forestry regulations. Currently, XLIVIMWRSWGMIRXMƼGQEREKIQIRXTPERXS guide yak herders in sustainably managing their rangelands, although such guidelines are stipulated in the Land Act of Bhutan 2007 (DoFPS, 2021) on contrary, invading pastureland with Rhodo species is an issue. · The collection of NWFPs has been rampant, indiscriminate, and unsustainable (DoFPS, 2021). · Water sources are drying up, attributed to reduced snowfall, frequent earthquakes, intensive grazing, and deforestation in catchment areas (DoFPS, 2021). · ;MPHPMJILYQER GSRƽMGX .(24 LEW E PMZIstock population of 22,673 Over the last three years, 1,656 (7.3%) domestic animals, including 1,157 yaks, were reported killed by predators (DoFPS, 2021). · Waste management remains a pressing issue. Opportunities Based on literature reviews and interviews with key

stakeholders, potential opportunities LEZIFIIRMHIRXMƼIH STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN · Although a Highland Festival is held annually in Laya and the Snowman Trekking Race has been introduced in Lunana, there MW WMKRMƼGERX TSXIRXMEP XS JYVXLIV HIZIPST community-based ecotourism due to the unique landscape and culture. Opportunities exist to diversify ecotourism products, such as organizing Takin-watching events during the Takin migration. The Auley festival, celebrated annually in Laya to promote harmonious coexistence and communal peace, could also be marketed as a tourism product. Map No. 1: Selected Bje, Katsho and Uesu Gewogs (Shaded) · There is already a practice of collecting and processing incense materials for sale. However, there is great potential to scale up incense production by improving processing methods with advanced machinery. At the same time, it is critical to practice

sustainable harvesting of NWFPs, including medicinal plants. 10.3 Haa Dzongkhag - Bje, Katsho and Uesu Gewogs Out of the six gewogs in Haa Dzongkhag, three gewogs, namely Bje, Katsho, and Uesu, were selected for this study due to their geographical location at high altitudes (Map No. 1) Physical Setting Bje Gewog is one of the largest among the six gewogs under Haa Dzongkhag, with a total of ƼZI GLM[SKW 8EPSSRK =ERKXLERK 'LYQTE Gyensa, and Chempa. The total area of the gewog is 802.2 sq km, and it is bordered by China to the north and Katsho Gewog to the south. The gewog consists of 23 villages Katsho Gewog is located at an altitude ranging from 2,850 to 3,100 meters above sea level, with an area of 42.8 square kilometers, making it the smallest of the six gewogs in Haa Dzongkhag (Dzongkhag Administration ,EE 8LIVIEVIƼZIGLM[SKWERHIPIZIR 47 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 48 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN

villages, namely Wangtsa, Bali (Bali & Mombitshokha), Yatam (Yatam & Katsho Goenpa), Ingo (Ingo & Pharakha), and Kajana-Drading (Kajana, Namchu, Naktshang & Gangkha) (Dzongkhag Administration Haa, 2024). Uesu Gewog is located 5 km away from the Dzongkhag headquarters at an altitude rang- ing from 2,521 to 4,076 meters above sea level, with an area of 66.459 sq km The gewog shares a border with Paro Dzongkhag to the east, Bji Gewog to the west, Katsho Gewog to the north, and Samar Gewog to the south. The gewog comprises 5 chiwogs and 11 villages, with 255 households. Demography and Culture Table No 1. Demography of the three highland gewogs Name of Gewog Total (hh) Bje Households Female population Male population Total Population 278 1762 1468 3230 Katsho 250 609 776 1385 Uesu 255 901 1006 1907 Total 788 3,272 3,250 6,522 Culturally, high-altitude wetlands (alpine lakes) are considered and revered as sacred sites, and their conservation is

important for preserving the myths and traditional beliefs of the local people of Haa Dzongkhag. Katsho Gewog people observe Chungdu Soelkha, popularly known as Chundu’s Birthday, and celebrate Lomba every year. The Meri-Puensum (the three small mountains that rise sharply to the west from the ƽSSVSJ,EE:EPPI] XLIQERMJIWXEXMSRSJXLI three principal deitiesJampelyang (Manjushri), Chana Dorji (Vajrapani), and Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara)and the two sacred temples, Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, are also located in Uesu Gewog. Infrastructure and Public Facilities Bje gewog - Almost all villages are accessible and well-connected by farm roads, and numerous pedestrian wooden bridges have been constructed to improve inter-village accessibility. Nearly all households have full access to safe drinking water and improved sanitation facilities The gewog is located about seven kilometers from the Dzongkhag center, and all the villages are well-served by both B-Mobile and T-Cell

network services. Bje Gewog has one Basic Health Unit (BHU) located EX =ERKXLERK ERH XLVII WGLSSPW (EQXLERK Primary School, Chundu Armed Forces Public School, and Jampel Higher Secondary School (Private). The gewog also has a community center located at Gyensa, near the gewog GIRXIV SƾGI ERH E JEVQ WLST EX =ERKXLERK (Dzongkhag Administration Haa, 2024). STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Katsho gewog- Haa town is located in close proximity to Katsho Gewog. Facilities such as Bali BHU (Grade I), Katsho Lower SecondEV] 7GLSSP XLI *SVIWX 6ERKI 3ƾGI ERH XLI Community Center provide a wide range of basic services to the people. Additionally, six Lhakhangs/GoenpasWangtsa Lhakhang (monastery), Bali Lhakhang, Katsho Goenpa, Lungkha Lhakhang, Jung Nay Drag, and Dradhing Lhakhangoffer spiritual services to the community (Dzongkhag Administration Haa, 2024). Uesu gewog has an Renewable Natural

ReWSYVGIW 626 3ƾGIERHE'SQQYRMX]'IRXIV ''  SƾGI8LI KI[SK EPWS LEW E 0S[IV Secondary School and a veterinary hospital. Residents of Uesu Gewog access healthcare services from Bali BHU, located 5 km away in Katsho Gewog. The gewog has six government-owned Lhakhangs, three community Lhakhangs, and one private Lhakhang. The +I[SK %HQMRMWXVEXMSR 3ƾGI ERH XLI '' EVI connected with internet, offering both online ERH SƿMRI WIVZMGIW (^SRKOLEK %HQMRMWtration Haa, 2024). The gewog is covered by B-Mobile and T-Cell network services, with 3G internet available in some areas. All houseLSPHWEVIIPIGXVMƼIHERHLEZIEGGIWWXSWEJI drinking water through the Rural Water Supply Scheme. Additionally, there are six forest groups, as well as poultry and dairy groups. All villages are connected by farm roads. Bji, Katsho and Uesu Gewogs experiences cold, dry winters and warm, wet summers. In winter, temperatures drop as low as minus -70C, with

snowfall occurring several times a year, starting from late October and continuing until April. Forests and biodiversity The total forest cover of each gewog is shown in table No. 2 Table No. 2: Forest cover of the three highland gewogs Name of Gewog Forest cover in % of its land Bje 80 Katsho 69 Uesu 73 Climate of the area The forest areas of Bji, Katsho, and Uesu gewogs consist of loose rocks with sparse vegetation, including grasses, herbs, and stunted shrubs. Many rocks are covered by mosses and lichens. This rocky terrain provides a suitable habitat for the snow leopard and its prey, the blue sheep. The rugged nature of the landscape serves as an ideal hunting ground for snow leopards while providing a good refuge for their prey from predators. Alpine scrub and meadows also serve as major habitats for the alpine musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), and various bird species, such as the Tibetan snowcock (Tetraogallus tibetanus) and snow partridge

(Lerwa lerwa). Geographically, the northern parts, particularly Bje, Katsho, and Uesu gewogs, consist mostly of rugged mountain terrain, rocky peaks, and screes, harboring numerous sacred alpine lakes and a few plains. Encroachment by unpalatable shrubs like rhododendrons and junipers is observed in the area. Depending on soil types and moisture content, different types of alpine grasslands occur In many alpine meadows, diverse 49 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 50 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN high-value medicinal plants can be found. Chinese caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), Neopicrorhiza kurroa, and NardoWXEGL]W KVERHMƽSVE grow in such areas. Important alpine grazing areas like Kampula, Tshona, Chuzomtse, Hala-Jula, Chala, and Jasoten are primarily grazed by yaks in summer. Fir forests are abundant in the nature reserve, [MXL TVIGMSYW SPHKVS[XL ƼV JSVIWXW JSYRH EX altitudes between 3,000 and 3,900 meters.

8LIWI ƼV JSVIWXW EVI GLEVEGXIVM^IH F] Picea WTMRSPEWE 0EVM KVMƾXLMERE .YRMTIVYW WTT bamboo, and rhododendron undergrowth. Common plant species include Rhododendron campanulatum, R. hodgsonii, R kesangiae, R falconeri, and Betula utilis Red pandas are commonly found in stands of bamboo undergrowth. This forest is wetter than the evergreen oak forest and is dominated by species such as Acer spp., Betula spp, Rhododendron spp., Quercus spp, Sorbus spp, Castanopsis spp., Lithocarpus spp, Exbucklandia sp, Salix spp., Viburnum spp, Lyonia sp, Michelia sp, Magnolia spp., along with profuse growth of Symplocos spp. and bamboo species These forests are important and integral parts of the habitat for tigers, red pandas, and other cat species in the nature reserve (DoFPS, 2021). The high-altitude wetlands (alpine lakes) within Bje, Katsho, and Uesu represent the freshwater and wetland ecosystems of JKSNR, which are integral components of the river basin system downstream. Based

on a preliminary study, 39 lakes of different sizes were recorded, scattered throughout the nature reserve, forming the catchment area for several tributaries of the Amo-Chhu and HaaChhu-Wang-Chhu rivers. There are no permanent snow-capped mountains in JKSNR, par- ticularly within Bje, Katsho, and Uesu gewogs. The alpine lakes and their tributaries serve as water sources for river systems that are critical to the livelihoods of residents within and along the basin, covering Haa, Paro, Chukha, and Samtse Dzongkhags. Among these lakes, Nub-Tshonapata, Rigona, Ngatsho, Dungtsho, Ngetotsho, Chundu Lhatsho, Hala, and Jula lakes are considered the most sacred and are important water sources for many downstream areas in Haa Dzongkhag (DoFPS, 2021). Socio-economic status and main livelihood activities For all three gewogs, the main source of income for the farmers is livestock. Most of the population in these gewogs consists of farmers who rely on livestock, cereal crops, and yak rearing.

The farmers also cultivate wheat, potatoes, and other vegetables for their own consumption, selling the surplus in nearby markets to generate income, which they use to purchase basic necessities for their households (Dzongkhag Administration Haa, 2024). In Katsho Gewog, people grow barley, buckwheat, and wheat as staple crops. Some also cultivate apples, potatoes, peas, and vegetables for both household revenue generation and domestic consumption (Dzongkhag Administration Haa, 2024). The table No 3 below shows the crops and vegetables grown in the XLVIIKI[SKW STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Table No.3 : Crops and vegetables production of three highland gewogs in 2023 (Source: Gewog Information) Crops and vegetables Name of the gewog Barley Buckwheat Potato Cabbage Radish Turnip Area in Acres Production ( MT) Bji 5.86 2.85 Katsho 0.39 0.14 Uesu 0 0 Bji 107.15 51.52 Katsho 68.77 28.51

Uesu 31.28 12.68 Bji 2.86 37.75 Katsho 1.86 157.55 Uesu 5.18 436.22 Bji 0.9 1.04 Katsho 1.62 6.32 Uesu 1.08 2.44 Bji 0.99 1.29 Katsho 1.41 2.57 Uesu 11.16 23.03 Bji 44.79 94.47 Katsho 39.95 143.35 Uesu 31.9 91.54 Yaks form an integral part of the pastoral system, and yak husbandry is a major aspect of the livelihoods and economy for the pastoral communities in the three gewogs. Recent social surveys have shown a 15% decrease in yak-herding households in Bje, Uesu, and Katsho gewogs (DoFPS, 2021). These yak herders, comprising 53 households with 217 residents, have traditional customary grazing rights over the area and rely on income from yak husbandry, which is supplemented by agricultural activities. The socio-economic reTSVXGSRƼVQWXLMWHIGVIEWIMRHMGEXMRKE  reduction in yak-herding households, with the current 53 households (217 residents) compared to the previous plan data of 71 households (315 residents) (DoFPS, 2021). The chart No. 1

shows the type of livestock and its population status) Chart No. 1:Types of cattle and its population in three gewogs (Source: JKSNR plan) Bji Katsho Uesu 51 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 52 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPs) are considered to be an important resource for sustaining rural livelihood, reducing rural poverty, biodiversity conservation and facilitating rural economic of three gewogs. JKSNR harbors high medicinal value plants both in lower elevation and alpine areas. However, these plants are not allowed to be collected for commercial purpose other than self-consumptions by the herders. Mushrooms such as Rangpai kam (Ganoderma lucidum), Sangay shamu (Tricholoma matsutake), Black brain fungus (Exidia glandulosa) and Sisi shamu (Cantharellus cf. cibarius) found in the nature reserve area are collected by the communities of Bje, Katsho and Uesu gewogs. Individual herders collect around 5-10

kgs of Matsutake (local name - Sangay shamu) for a period of one month (July), which are sold at Haa market for Nu. 800-1500 per kg Matsutake fetches more money than Sisi Shamu (DoFPS, 2021). Cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps sinensis) also grows in few and scattered areas of Lana, Shatey and Jasoten. The herders from Bji gewog also collect Cordyceps from this growing area. They collect around 100-600 pieces per year which fetches Nu. 100-200 per piece Incense/medicinal plants like Rhododendron spp., Nardostachys jatamannsi, Panex TWIYHSKIRWMRK2ISTMGVSVLM^EOYVVSE.YRMTIrus spp, etc are collected for self-consumption or local use only However, illegal collection and trading of above species were also recorded in the past years (DoFPS, 2021). There are 1957 students with 934 girls (48%) and 1023 boys (52%). The student to teachIV VEXMS MW  [LMGL MW ZIV] KSSH GSZIVEKI In total there are 783 hh with 14 health staff which means 1 health staff has to cover about 60 HH. It seems

that health coverage could a huge challenge. Issues / Challenges · According to the Conservation Management Plan of JKSNR, there have been reported instances of snow leopards preying on yaks, particularly juveniles and calves. It is documented that snow leopards have caused the deaths of 159 yaks and 3 horses within Bje, Katsho, and Uesu gewogs. In addition, dholes have been responsible for the deaths of 11 yaks, 40 cattle, and one LSVWI 8LMW LMKLPMKLXW XLI WMKRMƼGERX LYQER[MPHPMJI GSRƽMGX EW XLI PMZIPMLSSHW SJ residents in these gewogs heavily depend on livestock. · The major issue among households in all the gewogs is crop depredation by wild animals which is about 34.52% This is followed by labor shortages (18.15%) and QEVOIXMRKGLEPPIRKIW  WTIGMƼGEPly in Bji, Katsho, and Uesu gewogs. AnothIV WMKRMƼGERX MWWYI EJJIGXMRK EKVMGYPXYVEP TVSHYGXMSRMWMRWYƾGMIRXMVVMKEXMSREQSRK others (DoFPS, 2021). · Climate change is one of the greatest

challenges humanity is currently facing. Moreover, there is a lack of information regarding its effects on local communities and the natural environment (DoFPS, 2021). · The increasing population has led to indiscriminate littering. Despite repeated sensitization, advocacy, and awareness campaigns, large amounts of garbage STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN are recklessly disposed of along trekking routes, public places in alpine meadows, pilgrimage sites, roadsides, and water bodies. Highland mountains are especially littered by trekkers, pilgrims, and collectors of medicinal plants and NWFPs Poor waste management practices threaten both public health and the natural environment, as well as pollute water sources in the pristine mountain landscape (DoFPS, 2021). among yak-herding communities and conduct regular awareness programs on proper waste management. · Promoting Nature-Based Ecotourism)Rhance the

livelihoods of transhumant communities by promoting ecotourism. Develop climate-smart eco-trails and campsites, and improve migration trails and bridges to support the program. Conduct a study on the economic valuation and visitor carrying capacity of Nub-Tshonapata Lake. · There is competition for grazing land from Tibetan herders across the border. · The yak population is decreasing as people sell yaks to Luanna, Soe, and Tibet. Youth are not interested to take up the yak herding due to harsh conditions and hardship. Younger generations show less interest in yak herding. Opportunities · Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation 'SRXVMFYXI XS GPMQEXI GLERKI EHETtation by conducting Climate Vulnerability and Capacity Analysis (CVCA) and proposing sustainable actions to reduce the vulnerabilities of transhumant communities. Organize awareness and advocacy programs to sensitize local communities on the impacts of climate change based on CVCA results. ·

1MXMKEXMRK,YQER;MPHPMJI'SRƽMGX-QTPI- · Encouraging Youth Employment in Yak ment innovative measures and communiX]HVMZIR ETTVSEGLIW XS VIHYGI GSRƽMGXW Initiate incentive or insurance scheme to compensate for losses due to predation. Herding -QTVSZI XLI PMZMRK GSRHMXMSRW SJ herders, value additions to livestock and NWFP products and make essential facilities like mobile connections and solar lighting accessible to encourage youth to take up yak herding. · Effective Waste Management-RWXEPP WMKnage and information boards at strategic locations along eco-trails, campsites, research sites, and plots. Enhance advocacy and awareness programs on waste management for school children and key stakeholders. Organize regular cleaning campaigns and environmental education (EE) programs by engaging school groups and local communities as leaders and stewards. Institutionalize waste collection 10.4 Thimphu Dzongkhag - Soe, Naro, Lingzhi and Dagala Gewogs Physical

setting Thimphu Dzongkhag has one Drungkhag at 0MRK^LM ERH IMKLX +I[SKW 'LERK /E[ERK Dagala, Genekha, Mewang, Lingzhi, Soe, and 53 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 54 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Naro. The Drungkhag administration at Lingzhi oversees the three Gewogs of Soe, Lingzhi, and Naro. The Dzongkhag has 40 chiwogs and 198 villages, comprising 2,204 households. The population of the Dzongkhag is 24,185, as per the Population & Housing Census of Bhutan, 2017. Chang Gewog is the most populated, while Soe Gewog is the least populated (Thimphu Dzongkhag, 2021) Soe, Lingzhi, Naro and Dagala gewogs are selected for this study ( Map No. 1) Map No. 1: Gewogs selected for the study (shaded) Soe Gewog comprises 5 chiwogs and 9 villages, located approximately 82 kilometers from Thimphu to Shana, with an additional 3-day trek from Shana to Soe. The gewog’s altitude ranges from 3,720 meters to 5,640 meters above mean sea

level. Lingzhi Gewog is located 88 kilometers from Paro Shana, accessible via a feeder road folPS[IH F] E HE] [EPO XS XLI KI[SK SƾGI Alternatively, it can be reached from Dodeyna, which is 19 kilometers from Thimphu, followed by a 23-kilometer journey to Tsebgang, and then a 4-day walk to Lingzhi Gewog. The KI[SKSƾGIMWWMXYEXIHMR>EQMXLERKERHXLI gewog consists of 5 chiwogs and 12 villages. Naro Gewog is accessible via an 18-kilometer motorable road from the dzongkhag to Dodeyna, followed by a 2-day walk to Barshong Gewog. The gewog comprises 5 chiwogs and 21 villages. Dagala Gewog is situated at an altitude range of 2,240 meters to 4,720 meters above sea level and consists of 5 chiwogs and 37 villages.Table No 1 shows the area coverage of each gewog of the study area. Table No. 1: Area of the gewogs Name of the Gewog Area ( sq.km) Soe 190.72 Lingzhi 386.789 Naro 281.368 Dagala 204.242 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE

OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Demography and Culture In Soe, the Jhomolhari Mountain Festival is organized annually by the Gewog Administration and Jigme Dorji National Park. There is one community Lhakhang in Soe. Lingzhi has a few festivals celebrated annually. Tandro Datse is played annually with traditional bows and arrows The festival called Towgen is celebrated to worship the local deity, Drolathey. There is one community-owned Lhakhang. Naro celebrates Barshong Tshokhor annually, an offering to the local deity for well-being, followed by a 2-day archery match. Dagala Gewog hosts a few festivals, such as Wang of Taktsekha, which is celebrated every three years as an offering to the local deity. There are also two .SQ celebrations held every year as offerings to the local deity There is one community-owned Lhakhang in Dagala. The detail of HH and population segregated into gender is provided in the Table No.2 Table No.2: Demography of the three highland gewogs Name

of Gewog Total Households (hh) Female population Male population Total Population Soe 29 101 81 182 Lingzhi 97 214 276 490 Naro 71 87 163 250 Dagala 177 707 1387 2094 Total 374 1109 1907 2496 Infrastructure and Public Facilities Soe Gewog has 100% mobile service coverage, ensuring smooth communication for its residents. The gewog is well-equipped with educational facilities, including an extended classroom, and healthcare services are provided through a Basic Health Unit II. Additionally, the gewog has an Agriculture Extension Centre and a Livestock Extension Centre, catering to the needs of local farmers and herders. Every household in the gewog has access to a 100% water supply and a waste disposal pit. However, as of 2020, there was no road connection to the gewog. Lingzhi Gewog also enjoys 100% mobile service coverage, facilitating communication for its residents. The gewog is home to a post

ofƼGIERHEGSQQYRMX]QEMPSƾGIIRWYVMRKIJƼGMIRXTSWXEPWIVZMGIW-RXIVQWSJIHYGEXMSR there are two Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) centers, one primary school, and approximately 53 students were enrolled in 2021. Healthcare services are provided through a Basic Health Unit II and an Outreach Clinic (ORC) shed. Over 90% of households in the gewog have access to a water supply. The gewog also features an Agriculture Extension Centre and a Livestock Extension Centre. Similar to Soe Gewog, Lingzhi Gewog lacked road connectivity. 55 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 56 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Naro Gewog has limited mobile network accessibility, with only 40% of the area coverage. The gewog has a non-formal education center, providing alternative educational opportunities. Additionally, there is one government-owned Lhakhang (Buddhist temple) in the gewog. Dagala Gewog has 60% mobile network connectivity, allowing

for moderate communication access. The gewog has Yangchen Gasthel Lower Secondary School, providing educational opportunities for local students. A Basic Health Unit II is also present in the gewog, catering to the healthcare needs of residents. All households in the gewog have access to a water supply, and every household has a waste disposal pit. Climate of the area In Lingzhi, as well as in Soe and Naro Gewogs, summers are short, hot, humid, wet, and mostly cloudy, while winters are very cold and partly cloudy. Throughout the year, temperatures generally range from 35°F to 92°F, rarely dipping below 28°F or rising above 99°F. The hot season lasts about 2.8 months, from June to September, with average daily highs exceeding 83°F. July is the hottest month, with an average high of 91°F and a low of 78°F. The cool season spans 3 months, from December to March, with daily highs averaging below 55°F. January is the coldest month, with an average low of 35°F and a high of 47°F .

Forests and biodiversity The forest cover of the selected gewogs of the study is provided in Table No. 3 Table No. 3: Forest cover of the three highland gewogs (Source: (Thimphu Dzongkhag, 2021) Name of Gewog Forest cover in % of its land Soe 8.54 Lingzhi 42.3 Naro 0.48 Dagala 65.78 More than 4,374 sq km of JDNP fall within the three Gewogs of Soe, Naro, and Lingzhi. JDNP is undoubtedly the conservation jewel of the eastern Himalayas. The salient feature that distinguishes JDNP from the rest of Bhutan’s Protected Areas is that it harbors three nationEPW]QFSPWSJXLIGSYRXV]XLIREXMSREPERMQEP the takin (Budorcas taxicolor whitei); the national bird, the raven (Corvus corax); and the national tree, the cypress (Cupressus corneyana -XMWEPWSXLISRP]TEVO[LIVISRIGERƼRH thriving populations of the endangered Royal Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), Asiatic wild dogs (Cuon alpinus), and the vulnerable snow leopard (Panthera uncia) sharing their habitats. The

park embraces an incredible wealth of biodiversity, including 1,434 species of vascular plants (with more than 200 species of medicinal plants), 50 mammals, 407 birds, JSYV[MPHFIIWFYXXIVƽMIWEQTLMFMERW VITXMPIWERHHVEKSRƽMIWERHHEQWIPƽMIW (DoFPS, 2021). JDNP is also a treasure trove of medicinal plants, natural hot springs, and QEKRMƼGIRX WGIRIV]8LI 'LMRIWI GEXIVTMPPEV Ophiocordyceps sinensis (commonly known as cordyceps), which grows in the higher elevations of the park, is one of the main sources of income for highlanders in Soe, Naro, and Lingzhi. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Hydrologically, four major river basinsnamely the Phochu, Mochu, Pachu, and Wangchu originate from the snow-capped mountains and other watersheds of the park, making it the water tower of western Bhutan. There is also a non-wood forest management group formed in the four gewogs.

Socio-economic status and main livelihood activities Soe Gewog is renowned for its livestock, boasting a substantial population of 1,704 yaks, 297 equines, and approximately 87 poultry. The primary products derived from these livestock include fresh milk, butter, dried cheese, and yak meat. In 2020, the gewog achieved production outputs of 83,210 liters of fresh milk, 4,127 kilograms of butter, 7,425 units of dried cheese, and 4,220 kilograms of yak meat. Additionally, Soe Gewog has 883 acres of agricultural land dedicated to wheat production. The gewog also cultivates a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, radishes, turnips, and leafy greens. Potatoes is the main agricultural crop in the gewog, with a production yield of approximately 2.8 metric tons in 2020, as reported by Thimphu Dzongkhag in 2021. Lingzhi Gewog has 64.77 acres of dryland, with 19.24 acres dedicated to crop and vegetable production In 2021, the gewog produced 1,180 kilograms of barley and 300 kilograms

of quinoa. Additionally, the gewog cultivated a diverse range of vegetables, including cabbage, GEYPMƽS[IVVEHMWLIWXYVRMTWFIERWERHFVSGcoli, as reported by Thimphu Dzongkhag in 2021. Furthermore, Lingzhi Gewog is home to a substantial livestock population consisting of 3,908 yaks and 914 equines, which yielded 183,041 liters of fresh milk, 7,931 kilograms of butter, 333 kilograms of cheese, 17,845 units of chugu, 3,550 kilograms of yak meat, and 61 kilograms of wool in 2021. Naro Gewog has a total cultivation area of 7.57 acres, where a variety of vegetables are KVS[RMRGPYHMRKGEFFEKIGEYPMƽS[IVVEHMWLes, turnips, beans, and leafy greens. Notably, potato is a primary crop in the gewog, with a production yield of 3.7 metric tons in 2020 8LIKI[SKLEWEWMKRMƼGERXPMZIWXSGOTSTYPEtion, comprising 2,450 yaks and 477 equines, which produced 116,405 liters of fresh milk, 5,626 kilograms of butter, 10,827 units of chugu, and 9,297 kilograms of yak meat in 2021, as reported by

Thimphu Dzongkhag. According to a recent socio-economic survey of JDNP, residents of Lingzhi, Soe, and Naro Gewogs within the park generated a substantial total income of Nu. 4778 million from the sale of cordyceps in 2019 (DoFPS, 2021). This was followed by important earnings from the sale of 2EVHSWXEGL]WKVERHMƽSVE and Picrorhiza kurroa, which generated incomes of approximately Nu. 40 million and Nu 15 million, respectively. Furthermore, the park is home to a diverse array of medicinal plants, including Paris polyphylla, Gentiana sp., Pedicularis sp, Meconopsis sp., Delphinium sp, and Aconitum sp., which are in high demand in local, national, and international markets, as stated by the Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS) in 2021. In Lingzhi Dungkhag (soe, Naro and Lingzhi gewogs), according to the Dungkhag’s data from 2021, a total of 68 students were en- 57 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 58 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF

BHUTAN rolled in these schools, with 40% boys and 60% girls. The schools are staffed by a team of 9 dedicated teachers, resulting in a stuHIRXXSXIEGLIVVEXMSSJ[LMGLMWZIV]KSSH student teacher ratio. Additionally, the gewog is equipped with two healthcare centers, which are supported by 4 health Assistance, 4 village health worker and one Sowai Menpa (traditional medical doctor). So, 1 health staff could cover 115 people of the community. Basic health facilities are in place Dagala Gewog areas fall within biological corridor of JDNP and JKSNR, it encompasses 31.93 acres of dryland, with a strong reliance on livestock products and agricultural crops, including wheat and quinoa. The gewog also cultivates a diverse range of vegetables, such EW GEFFEKI  18  GEYPMƽS[IV  18  carrots (1.1 MT), radishes (65 MT), turnips (8.9 MT), beans (22 MT), peas (1 MT), and leafy greens, as reported in 2020. Potato is a primary source of income for the villages, with a

production yield of 30 MT in 2020. Additionally, the gewog produced 18 MT of apples in 2020. The gewog is also renowned for its livestock, with a population of 2,809 yaks, 52 local cattle, 159 equines, and 1,371 poultry in 2020. This livestock yielded an impressive output, comprising 195,910 liters of fresh milk, 9,319 kilograms of butter, 1,645 kilograms of cheese, 15,143 units of chugu, 357,136 dozen eggs, and 2,980 kilograms of yak meat in 2020, as documented by Thimphu Dzongkhag in 2021. Dagala gewog has one Basic health unit with 4 staff. The health coverage 523 people to 1 health staff. However, communities of Dagala being near to the Capital city of Thimphu, most of the health issues are referred to Thimphu Jigme Dorji Wangchuk Referral Hospital. There is a one middle secondary school with 517 students with 47% boys and 53% girls. 8LIWXYHIRXXSXIEGLIVVEXMSMW[LMGLMW good. Issues / Challenges · Unsustainable Harvesting of Non-Wood Forest Products (NWFPs) 8LI

PEGO SJ E WGMIRXMƼGLEVZIWXMRKQIXLSHLEWPIHXSXLI decline of NWFP resources, threatening their long-term sustainability. · No waste management+EVFEKIMWMRHMWcriminately discarded along roads, trails, meadows, jungles, and water bodies, contributing to environmental degradation. · Climate Change ,MKLPERH RSQEHMG GSQmunities have observed reduced snowfall, rapid snowmelt, and the presence of mosquitoes, indicating warming in the alpine region. Some bridges get washed away every monsoon, creating communication problems · ,YQER;MPHPMJI 'SRƽMGX 8LI QENSVMX] of the population relies on livestock and crop production for their livelihood, with highland semi-nomadic people particularly dependent on yak rearing. However, the presence of predators has resulted in the loss of 1,656 (7.3%) domestic animals over the past three years, as reported by the Department of Forests and Park Services (DoFPS) in 2021. The total livestock population in JDNP stands at 22,673

heads STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN · No good access with road: No motorable road as the gewog center is located near the northern border · Value addition to medicinal herbs and explore international markets · Facilitate and provide solar lights where · No coverage of health services: BHU Grade II cannot cater to patients who require referral to the district hospital during emergencies, people rely on helicopter services, but they are not available when needed · Degradation of pastureland: Degradation of pastureland due to overgrazing by wild blue sheep and Increasing pressure on the limited pastureland as tour guides keep their horses and mules for two to three days while transporting goods for tourists Opportunities · Improve dairy processing unit to make yak and livestock products more marketable and sustainable there is no electricity in the villages · Make more accessible with motorable

road to connect Panglikachu to the Barshong roadhead, reducing the walking distance from three days to two. The gewog has proposed the construction of a 7-kilometer road from Barshong to Panglikachu. · Accessibility will improve with the construction of 37 kilometers of mule trails and 12 cantilever and steel-truss bridges between Panglikachu and Lingzhi gewog center. The gewog will construct 30 kilometers of mule trails and 15 wooden bridges, steel-truss bridges, suspension bridges, and culverts between Shana and Jangothang · Income generation from eco-tourism · Since Dagala is one of the most popular treks in Bhutan, known for its Thousand Lakes, the gewog has prioritized improving existing infrastructure to attract more tourists and trekkers. This includes constructing campsites and establishing eco-lodges. The trek passes through various shimmering high-altitude lakes, collectively known as the Thousand Lakes Trek While trekking amidst these picturesque lakes, one can enjoy

views of some of the world’s highest Himalayan ranges, including Mount Everest in Nepal, Jumolhari, Masanggang, Jichu Drake, Tiger Mountain in Bhutan, and many more. through support and establishment homestays or eco-lodges for tourists 10.5 Trashigang Dzongkhag Merak and Sakteng Gewogs There are 15 gewogs under Trashigang Dzongkhag. The two gewogs, Merak and Sakteng (both semi-nomadic communities), are selected for this study because they are situated MRLMKLPERHEVIEW8LIVIMWE(VYRKOLEK3ƾGI (sub-district) located in Sakteng, responsible for the administration of both gewogs (Map No.1) 59 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 60 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Map No. 1: Map of Merak and Saketeng of Trashigang District Physical Setting Merak, one of the remotest gewogs under the Merak-Sakteng Drungkhag in Trashigang Dzongkhag, covers an area of 867.70 km² It is located in the eastern part of the Dzongkhag and shares boundaries with

Shongphu gewog to the west, Sakteng gewog to the north, Kangpara gewog to the south, and the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh to the east. Merak lies in the valley of Nyera Ama ri (river) at an altitude of about 3,400–3,500 meters above sea level. Nyakchung La, which is about 4,100 meters above sea level, is the pass between Merak and Sakteng gewogs. It stretches from latitude 27°17.84’N to 27°1851’N and from longitude 91°50.76’E to 91°5212’E (Trashigang Dzongkhag Information, 2024) The 1IVEOKI[SKSƾGI[EWGSRWXVYGXIHMR ERH XLI KI[SK LEW  GLM[SKW 1IVEO /LEtoed, Merak Khamed, Gyengo, Khelephu, and Khasheteng. Sakteng gewog is also a semi-nomadic community located in the remotest and easternmost part of Bhutan. It is bordered by Phongmey and Merak gewogs of Trashigang Dzongkhag and the Arunachal Pradesh state STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN of India. It covers an area of 9109

km² and is situated 68 km from Trashigang Dzongkhag. 8LI7EOXIRKKI[SKSƾGI[EWEPWSGSRWXVYGXIH MR  ERH XLI KI[SK LEW  GLM[SKW Pusa-Tengma, Sakteng, Borangma-Borangtse, Thrakthri, and Joenkhar chiwog. Most of Sakteng gewog lies within the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS), which is the only reserve in the world dedicated to protecting the habitat of the Yeti, or abominable snowman. The mountainous and rugged sanctuary is also home to the rare Blue Poppies. Merak and Sakteng are the two most remote gewogs (blocks) in Trashigang District where Brokpas, the nomadic yak herders, showcase unique culture and traditions. The houses in both gewogs are clustered, which poses E WMKRMƼGERX VMWO SJ ƼVI -X XEOIW X[S HE]W XS reach Merak on foot from Chaling, the nearest road-head (29 km from Trashigang town), and two days to reach Sakteng from Phongmey, the nearest road-head (33 km from Trashigang town). The journey between Merak and Sakteng takes one day. Both

highland gewogs are now connected by motorable roads. Demography and Culture Merak Gewog has 345 households with a total population of 2,429 (1,054 females and 1,375 males) (Trashigang Dzongkhag Information, 2024). The Merak tribe is well-known for their “Lugoi” costumes, which feature a red woolen skirt, a black woolen top with intricate red and white embroidery, and a woven belt with long tassels. The “Kongmol” headgear is a conical hat made from bamboo or cane and adorned with multicolored beads and animal fur, such as that of the Himalayan black bear. The Mer- ak people also wear jewelry, including bracelets, earrings, and necklaces made from silver, coral, and turquoise. In Merak culture, the Lugoi costume symbolizes grace and pride and is worn during festivals, weddings, and other important events. Annual rituals celebrate the founding of the Merak settlement and seek blessings from Aum Jomo, the local deity, for the community’s prosperity and health. Other religious

rituals like Ngungnye, Sumdi, Mangku-rim, and Chokhor are also performed. Sakteng Gewog has 449 households with a population of 2,560 (1,316 females and 1,244 males), and its people are recognized for their distinctive “Sakteng Gho” attire. The Sakteng Gho is a knee-length garment made from handwoven cotton, silk, or raw silk, often featuring vivid red and yellow designs. It is paired with the traditional “Kera” belt, made from woven fabric with complex thread patterns. The Sakteng people’s headgear, the “Khamar,” is a conical hat made from bamboo or cane and decorated with colorful tassels and ribbons. The Sakteng Gho is a formal garment worn by both men and women in Sakteng society. Both Merak and Sakteng have unique dialects, traditional attire, lifestyles, songs, and dances that distinguish them from the rest of Bhutan. People in these communities maintain a long-standing tradition of elaborate dressing, [LMGLVIƽIGXWXLIMVVMGLGYPXYVEPLIVMXEKIERH values. Their

customs, language, and way of life are distinct from other Bhutanese communities. Notably, “Terchham,” the sacred Naked Dance, is a unique cultural performance held every three years, alongside other annual festivals where exclusive dances like Achey Lhamo and the Yak Chham (Yak Dance) can be witnessed. 61 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 62 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Similar to most villages in Bhutan, the population of Merak and Sakteng is primarily made up of the elderly and young children. Many adults and younger generations have migrated to other places in search of better education and employment opportunities. Infrastructure and Public Facilities Merak Gewog has a Gewog Administration 3ƾGIE6IRI[EFPI2EXYVEP6IWSYVGIW 626  'IRXVI E *SVIWX 6ERKI 3ƾGI SRI &EWMG Health Unit, and a primary school. The gewog also has a Non-Formal Education Center (NFEC) and an Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC).

Merak offers homestay services and basic toilet facilities for tourists Sakteng Gewog has a Gewog Administration 3ƾGI X[S 626 'IRXVIW X[S *SVIWX 6ERKI 3ƾGIW SRI QMPO TVSGIWWMRK YRMX X[S &EWMG Health Units (BHUs) - II, and one lower secondary school. The gewog also has two Non-Formal Education Centers (NFECs) and one Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC). Like Merak, Sakteng provides homestay services and basic toilet facilities for tourists. Merak and Sakteng remained isolated from the rest of the country for many decades and are considered among the poorest gewogs, with a poverty rate of 46.9% (DoFPS, 2019) Road access to Merak was established only in 2015, while Sakteng Gewog’s road construction was completed in 2022. Both gewogs now have good telecommunication connectivity and basic tourism facilities such as toiPIXW ERH GEQTKVSYRHW8LI] LSPH WMKRMƼGERX potential for developing ecotourism products to attract tourists. Climate of the Area

Trashigang district’s average annual temperature is 26.64ºC (7995ºF), which is 1104% higher than Bhutan’s national average. In Merak, temperatures drop below freezing for 3 to 4 months each year. The mean minimum temperature remains below freezing for 4 to 5 months, and the mean maximum temperature ranges between 0 to 3 degrees Celsius in January and February. During the monsoon season (June to September), temperatures rise to around 15–18 degrees Celsius. Occasional frosts occur as late as April and as early as November (Department of Human Settlement, 2015). Sakteng experiences a temperate highland tropical climate with dry conditions. It typically receives about 151.56 millimeters (597 inches) of precipitation annually and experiences 175.3 rainy days (4803% of the year) (Weather and Climate - The Global Historical Weather and Climate Data, accessed on 12/10/24) Similar to Merak, temperatures drop below freezing for 3 to 4 months a year. The mean minimum temperature is below

freezing for 4 to 5 months, while the mean maximum temperature ranges between 0 to 3 degrees Celsius in January and February. During the monsoon season (June to September), temperatures rise to around 15–18 degrees Celsius. Occasional frosts occur as late as April and as early as November. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Table No. : Monthly Temperature of Sakteng Gewog, Trashigang ( Source: (Weather and Climate - The Global Historical Weather and Climate Data, Access on 12/10/24) Month Record high °C (°F) Average high °C (°F) Daily mean °C (°F) Average low °C (°F) Record low °C (°F) Average precipitation mm (inches) Average precipitation days ƶQQ Average relative humidity (%) Mean monthly sunshine hours Jan 29.73 (85.51) 24.18 (75.52) 19.54 (67.17) 12.54 (54.57) 8.2 (46.76) 5.96 (0.23) 1.87 69.19 8.75 Feb 33.83 (92.89) 28.09 (82.56) 22.98 (73.36) 14.64 (58.35) 7.18

(44.92) 12.14 (0.48) 2.42 57.48 8.75 Mar 37.93 (100.27) 32.49 (90.48) 27.56 (81.61) 18.44 (65.19) 12.3 (54.14) 17.41 (0.69) 4.1 48.82 11.27 Apr 41.0 (105.8) 34.18 (93.52) 29.51 (85.12) 21.56 (70.81) 17.43 (63.37) 79.06 (3.11) 13.98 60.42 12.81 May 41.0 (105.8) 34.6 (94.28) 30.44 (86.79) 23.24 (73.83) 19.48 (67.06) 188.83 (7.43) 23.58 71.72 13.02 Jun 39.98 (103.96) 33.57 (92.43) 30.49 (86.88) 25.18 (77.32) 21.53 (70.75) 347.96 (13.7) 28.7 82.85 12.89 Jul 37.93 (100.27) 32.29 (90.12) 29.64 (85.35) 25.36 (77.65) 19.48 (67.06) 469.36 (18.48) 30.0 88.31 12.28 Aug 38.95 (102.11) 33.28 (91.9) 30.28 (86.5) 25.57 (78.03) 22.55 (72.59) 337.21 (13.28) 30.1 85.32 12.39 Sep 36.9 (98.42) 32.21 (89.98) 29.08 (84.34) 24.56 (76.21) 20.5 (68.9) 266.66 (10.5) 25.35 85.78 11.28 Oct 35.88 (96.58) 30.6 (87.08) 26.72 (80.1) 21.08 (69.94) 15.38 (59.68) 81.27 (3.2) 10.91 82.04 10.68 Nov 31.78 (89.2) 27.37 (81.27) 23.16

(73.69) 16.83 (62.29) 11.28 (52.3) 7.2 (0.28) 2.71 78.48 8.71 Dec 27.68 (81.82) 24.49 (76.08) 20.35 (68.63) 14.19 (57.54) 8.2 (46.76) 5.75 (0.23) 1.59 75.78 8.64 Year 41.0 (105.8) 30.61 (87.1) 26.64 (79.95) 20.27 (68.49) 7.18 (44.92) 151.56 (5.97) 14.61 73.85 10.96 Forests and biodiversity Merak has about 66% and Sakteng has 64% of their land under forest cover (DoFPS, 2021). The people of Merak and Sakteng reside within the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary (SWS), a protected area. Approximately 852% of Sakteng, 67.3% of Merak under Trashigang Dzongkhag, and 94% of Lauri Gewog in Samdrupjongkhar Dzongkhag fall within the SWS. The communities of both gewogs have relied on the forest for various purposes for decades. Timber used for house construction, renovations, shingles, and other needs has traditionally been harvested from the forest, and this practice continues, although shingles JSVVSSƼRKLEZIFIIRVITPEGIHF]'+-WLIIXW (DoFPS, 2019). A majority of

SWS is covered by the Merak and Sakteng gewog areas. A terrestrial biodiversity survey recorded 858 plant species from 141 families under 35 orders. Of these, 57% are herbs (including climbers), 63 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 64 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 17% are trees, 14% are shrubs, and 12% are orchids. About 65% of the SWS is dominated by coniferous forest, featuring 12 species of conifers under seven genera, including Fir (Abies densa), Hemlock (Tsuga dumosa), Larch (0EVM KVMƾXLMM), Himalayan Yew (Taxus sp.), Bhutan pine (Pinus bhutanica), Chir pine (Pinus roxburghii), Spruce (Picea spinulosa), and ƼZI WTIGMIW SJ .YRMTIV YRMTIVYW VIGYVZE  GSQQYRMW . GJ MRHMGE  WUYEQEXE ERH  pseudosabina). Dry Alpine Scrub begins be]SRHQEPXMXYHI[MXLEZEVMIX]SJƽS[IVing plants such as Rhododendron setosum, R anthopogon, R. bhutanense, Primula spp, Potentilla spp, and Gentiana spp (DoFPS, 2021) Due to its

remoteness and protection under the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, the undisturbed ecosystems of Merak and Sakteng are home to around 18 mammals, 119 bird species, and 203 plant species. These gewogs host diverse fauna, including two species each of wild dog and weasel, one species each of red panda, bear, and civet, and eight species of cats, including the Royal Bengal tiger. There are eight species of rodents under four families, including squirrels, porcupines, voles, and mice. Ungulates in the area include species such as antelope, deer, musk deer, takin, and pig. The communities maintain a traditional lifestyle and live in harmony with their rich biodiversity. Both gewogs experience human-wildlife conƽMGXW QEMRP] HYI XS ]EOW ERH GEXXPI FIMRK preyed upon by snow leopards. Jomo-ri in Sakteng originates from Serkemla and Mount Jomo Kungkhar, joined by several small and large streams (Department of Human Settlement, 2015). Jomo-ri is fed by numerous small and medium-sized

lakes, streams, and seasonal rain/snow. There are no permanent snow-capped mountains in the area. The Merak village receives water through a rural water supply scheme, with about 5060 water taps installed at various locations, each serving 4 to 5 households. At present, water supply is not an issue for Merak residents. Gamri Chhu originates from Sakteng of Trashigang joins the Drangme Chhu having potential to generate hydropower. The Gamri Watershed main tributaries of the Drangme Chhu River, which drains into the BrahmapuXVE6MZIVMR-RHMEERHƼREPP]ƽS[WMRXSXLI&E] of Bengal. Economic Status and main Livelihood Activities More than 85% of the people in Merak and Sakteng practice a semi-nomadic lifestyle, with only a few households engaged in subsistence agriculture. Livestock farming is the primary occupation, followed by civil service and other jobs (DoFPS, 2019). The main sources of income for these communities are the sale of livestock products such as butter, cheese,

fermented cheese (yoshu), meat, and wool to nearby towns (DoFPS, 2021). Recently, they have also started collecting NWFPs such as mushrooms, wild vegetables, tubers, incense-making herbs, and medicinal plants to supplement their income. These products are either sold for cash or bartered for grains and other essentials not locally available. However, value addition to NWFPs remains a challenge. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN The people of Merak and Sakteng are highly dependent on livestock and livestock products. They rear yaks, sheep, cows, horses, goats, mithun, and mules. In 2015, the average livestock per household was 61 Pasture, known locally as tsadrong, is a crucial livelihood component for the Brokpa people. Their pastures are located across different climatic zones, ranging from 2,500 to 4,500 meters in altitude. Based on the season, herders migrate with their cattle. The size of pastureland varies

from 10 to 810 acres in the summer pastures, 8 to 180 acres in the autumn pastures, and 13 to 400 acres in the winter pastures (Department of Human Settlement, 2015). While some vegetables are grown in Merak and Sakteng, no cereal crops can be cultivated at such high altitudes. Maize, barley, potatoes, and vegetables are grown in lower areas like Khasheteng and Khelephu chiwogs in Merak, while bitter buckwheat and vegetables are grown in the lower areas of Joenkhar, Murbi, and Thrakthri villages in Sakteng. According to the RNR journal of 2006, Merak produces 15-29 metric tons of butter and cheese, with 80% of the cheese and 75% of the butter being sold or bartered with people downstream and in towns like Trashigang (Department of Human Settlement, 2015). Sakteng produces about 1.64 MT of barley, 93 MT of maize, and 0.73 MT of millet, mainly from the lower areas, while Merak produces about 1095 MT of maize and 0.09 MT of barley A few projects have been initiated to improve yak breeding

bulls, and milk skimming equipment has been provided through donor-supTSVXIH MRMXMEXMZIW 1SVI XLER ƼZI GSSTIVEXMZI groups have been formed to manage products ranging from dairy to NWFPs in both gewogs. Both gewogs have the potential to enhance dairy production and sustainably use NWFPs, contributing to local livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. In both the gewogs, there is a total of 696 students with 343 boys (49%) and 353 girls (51%). 7XYHIRXXSXLIXIEGLIVVEXMSMW[LMGLPMXXPI LMKLIVXLERWXERHEVHGSZIVEKISJ8LIVI are about 844 hh in two gewogs with 29 health staff. The health coverage is 281hh by 1 staff which is a huge challenge and communities will have limited health services. Issues and Challenges · A rudimentary waste management pit has been constructed, and waste disposal regulations have been established, but effective waste management remains a challenge that requires further improvement. · The village’s densely clustered layout of

houses, along with the extensive use of [SSH MRGVIEWIW XLI VMWO SJ ƼVI QEOMRK ƼVI WEJIX] E TVIWWMRK GSRGIVR XLEX RIIHW attention. · 0MZIWXSGO PSWW XS [MPH TVIHEXSVW WMKRMƼcantly affects herders’ livelihoods. According to social surveys, yaks are the most frequent victims of wild predator attacks, followed by sheep and Dzo/Dzoms, highlighting the need for effective measures to mitigate these losses. · The potential for value addition in NWFP production remains largely untapped, representing an opportunity for economic and social development. 65 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 66 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Opportunities Map No. 1: Selected Gewogs of Wangduephodrang are shaded · Merak and Sakteng unique location, rich cultural heritage, and unspoiled environment, combined with its accessibility via a motorable road and basic amenities, position it as a prime location for development into a premier

tourist destination. This offers a viable alternative livelihood for the local community. However, it is crucial to provide appropriate guidance and support to ensure the long-term sustainability of tourism in the area. · Enhancing revenue generation from NWFPs to supplement local livelihoods presIRXWEWMKRMƼGERXSTTSVXYRMX]XSEHHZEPYI to these products and ensure their sustainable management. 10.6 Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag - Phobjikha and Sephu Gewogs There are 15 gewogs under Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag. The three gewogs, namely Sephu and Phobjikha ( Map No. 1) are identiƼIH JSV XLMW WXYH] FIGEYWI XLI] EVI WMXYEXIH in highland areas and dependent on livestock and NWFP. The two gewogs are described separately each under. Physical Setting Phobjikha Gewog spans an area of 145.71 square kilometers, with an elevation range of 2,800 to 4,000 meters above sea level. Located in the east-central region of the country, it is approximately 68 kilometers from the Dzongkhag

Administration in Wangduephodrang. The gewog shares borders with Athang Gewog to the south, Gangtey Gewog and Sephu Gewog to the northeast, and is connected to Chendebji Gewog of Trongsa Dzongkhag by a footpath, which takes roughly three hours to traverse on foot, although it is not frequent- STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN P]YWIH4LSFNMOLE+I[SKGSQTVMWIWƼZIGLMwogs and a total of 29 villages. The region is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and picturesque scenery, stretching across a vast valley. Notably, the gewog’s landscape adjoins the northwestern boundary of Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, thereby strengthening the forest corridors between Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park and Jigme (SVNM2EXMSREP4EVO 7SYVGI6S]EP7SGMIX]JSV Protection of Nature, 2014). Sephu has estimated area of 1108 sq.km located at an altitude ranging from 2,600 to 3,500 meters above sea level, Sephu Gewog is

situated route to Trongsa, in the northeastern part of Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag. The Sephu gewog center can be reached after a three-hour drive from Wangdue Dzongkhag. 8LIKI[SKGSQTVMWIWƼZIGLM[SKW&YWS>IVM Rukubjee, Longtoed, Bumilog, and Nakha. The chiwogs are scattered, but the households within each chiwog are nucleated. Sephu Gewog falls within the protected areas of Wangchuck Centennial National Park (WCNP) Demography and Culture Phobjikha consists of 426 households with a total population of approximately 4,642 individuals, including 2,345 females and 2,297 QEPIW8LIVIKMSRMWHMZMHIHMRXSƼZIGLM[SKW each with a varying number of villages and LSYWILSPHW7TIGMƼGEPP] · Gangphel Chiwog encompasses six villages with 95 households. · Tawa Chiwog comprises eight villages with 137 households. · /LIQHVS'LM[SKLEWƼZIZMPPEKIW[MXL 113 households. · Drangha Chiwog consists of three villages with 39 households. · Dogselna Chiwog includes

seven villages with 42 households (Dzongkhag Administration, Wangdue, accessed on September 14, 2024). The valley is home to one of Bhutan’s most impressive ancient Buddhist monasteries, the Gangteng Monastery, which belongs to the Nyingma sect in central Bhutan. The graceful black-necked cranes (Grus nigricollis) from the Tibetan Plateau visit the valley during the winter season to roost. This broad valley, known for having the most renowned marshland in Bhutan, is famous for its scenic splendor and cultural uniqueness. Every year, the Tshechu (the colorful Mask Dance Festival of Bhutan) and the Crane Festival, welcoming the blacknecked cranes in the winter months, are held in the precincts of the Phobjikha Valley at Gangtey Monastery. Sephu Gewog has a total of 331 households, and the population consists of 1505 people with 675 males and 830 females. The literacy rate in the gewog is 40%, including 29 non-formal educators, and 70-80% of the population is economically active. There

are around 8 people in the gewog who are physically or mentally disabled (MEA, 2022). Sephu Gewog has seven community-owned and one privately-owned Lhakhang (Buddhist temple). Phobjikha is the second and Sephu is the third most populated gewogs in the dzongkhag (Chart No. 1) 67 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 68 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Chart No. 1 : Comparison of population among gewog under Wangdue Dzongkhag ( 5c*#K q Infrastructure and public facilities Phobjikha gewog has good road accessibility, with over 82.98 kilometers of farm roads constructed over the past plan periods, connecting every village All the farm roads remain STIR XS XVEƾG HYVMRK XLI [MRXIV QSRXLW EPthough they may close for a few months in the summer due to heavy, incessant downpours and sometime with snow. Telecommunication networks have 100% coverage Electricity also reaches 100% of households, although power cuts occur frequently,

about 2-3 times a day. The road connectivity throughout the gewog is 100%. Phobjikha has one central school, two primary schools, one extended classroom, healthcare centers, a renewable natural resources center, a nature/environQIRXGSRWIVZEXMSRGIRXIVEJSVIWXSƾGIERH a black-necked crane education center. Sephu gewog has basic amenities such as electricity, rural water supply, farm roads, and telecommunication. To date, 5303 km of farm roads have been built, making it easier for farmers to transport their products to the nearest market (Dzongkhag Administration, Wangdue, Accessed 14/9/2024). Government infrastructure, such as schools, RNR centers, and a basic health unit, has been established to provide services. Community banking services, including cash transactions, are available Wangdue Goenpa Lhakhang also has a monastic education center. About 99% of households have access to improved drinking water sources, while 1% do not. All households have individual toilets,

although there is no sewage system or sewage treatment plant. All households have septic tanks (MEA, 2022). Climate of the area Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag experiences highly varied climatic conditions, ranging from subtropical forests in the south to cool and snowy regions in the north. Climatically, Phobjikha valley falls within the temperate regions STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN of the inner Bhutan Himalayas. Phobjikha valley has cold, relatively dry, clear winters and wet, cloudy summers. The valley is surrounded by mountain ranges that experience snowfall, and the valley itself also gets covered in snow during the winter months. The climate station in Phobjikha has recorded a mean QMRMQYQ XIQTIVEXYVI SJ Ưq' q*  MR December and a mean maximum temperature of 19.9°C (678°F) in August The annual rainfall varies from 1,472 to 2,189 millimeters (Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag, accessed on

16/9/2024). Sephu gets heavy rain and snowfall. The area is a large catchment during the monsoon seaWSRTSWMRKELMKLVMWOSJƽEWLƽSSHW,IEZ] VEMRJEPPERHMRWYƾGMIRXHVEMREKIHYVMRKQSRsoon may cause slope instability, triggering landslides. According to the Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas, Bhutan has low water stress, but 7ITLYMWEXIXVIQIP]LMKLVMWOSJƽSSHWERH moderate drought risk. The risk of cyclone hazards in the area is low, with only a 1% chance of damaging wind speeds in the next 10 years (MEA, 2022). cially the black-necked cranesmakes it an attractive destination for recreational visitors, both Bhutanese and international. Phobjikha valley, adjoining Jigme Dorji National Park (JDNP) across the Black Mountains, includes the crane wintering area at Bumdeling, which has been declared a protected area. The valley is rich in faunal biodiversity. In addition to the globally threatened black-necked cranes (Grus nigricollis), there are 13 other globally threatened species in

the region. The marshy valley and grassy pasturelands serve as grazing areas for cattle and horses. Bamboo (Yushania microphylla) and grasses (Carex, Eragrostis, and Agrostis) dominate the area, with perennial herbs growing throughout. A special kind of dwarf bamboo grows here, which attracts the black-necked cranes for roosting and feeding during the winter season. As of May 2, 2014, about 970 hectares (3.7 sq mi) of the valley have been declared a Ramsar site, a wetland of international importance managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN). Forests and biodiversity Phobjikha Gewog is approximately 69.19% of the gewog is covered by forests, consisting mainly of mixed conifers such as Pinus walliGLMERE8WYKEHYQSWE%FMIWHIRWE.YRMTIVYW VIGYVZE 0EVM KVMƾXLMERE and Taxus baccata. The forested areas are covered in fertile, sandy loam soil, high in humus content. These forests serve as important water sources for the wetlands, with humid conifer forests

recharging groundwater and giving rise to several springs. The natural beauty of the valley, GSQFMRIH[MXLMXWVMGLƽSVEERHJEYREƂIWTI- Recorded fauna in the area include barking deer, wild boar, sambar, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan serow, leopards, and foxes. Recorded avifauna include the chestnut-breasted partridge (Arborophila mandellii), wood snipe (Gallinago nemoricola), Blyth’s tragopan (Tragopan blythii), greater spotted eagle (%UYMPE GPERKE), imperial eagle (%UYMPE LIPMEca), Baer’s pochard (Aythya baeri), Hodgson’s bushchat (Saxicola insignis), dark-rumped swift (Apus acuticauda), and grey-crowned prinia (Prinia cinereocapilla). 69 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 70 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN The valley also serves as a water source for drinking and irrigation for the people living in and downstream of the area. Water drains through the open grasslands into the Nakeychhu, Khewang Chu, Chhukap rivers, and other

small annual and perennial streams. Most of the areas along the streams are marshy, covered with grasses, bamboo, shrubs, herbs, and thick sphagnum moss (Royal Society for the Protection of Nature, 2014). Predator species in the area include tigers, snow leopards, common leopards, Himalayan black bears, dholes, Tibetan wolves, and smaller predators like yellow-throated martens, red foxes, and small wild cats. There are seven community forest management groups managing 1,789 hectares of WXEXI JSVIWX 8LIWI KVSYTW EVI SƾGMEPP] VIKistered as forestry groups in accordance with the Forest and Nature Conservation Rules and Regulations of 2023. Bird species recorded in the gewog include the Satyr tragopan, river lapwing, wood snipe, bearded vulture, and Himalayan griffon. All are globally near-threatened, except for the wood snipe, which is vulnerable. Data from eBird also reported six red-listed species within 5 km of 7ITLYXLIFPEGORIGOIHGVERIcinereous vulture, Rufous-bellied

eagle, Ward’s trogon, yellow-rumped honeyguide, and Rufous-throated wren-babbler. All are near-threatened except for the endangered steppe eagle. Sephu Gewog has forest area lies within the Wangchuck Centennial National Park, and XLIVIEVIƼZIGSQQYRMX]JSVIWXW[LIVIPSGEP residents manage the resources sustainably. The Gangtey-Phobji Ramsar site (300m away) and the Phobjikha and Khatekha valleys are designated primarily to protect the wintering black-necked crane population (MEA, 2022). The forest in the upper hills of Sephu and Dhur MWTVMQEVMP]ƼV+VE^MRKF]PMZIWXSGOLMRHIVWVIgeneration. Fir dominates large portions of the area, with some juniper species (.VIGYVZEERH . TWIYHSWEFMRE) at higher elevations Hemlock occasionally reaches the top canopy The mid-canopy includes species such as Betula utilis, Sorbus micorphylla, Prunus, and several Rhododendrons. Drier slopes with closed canSTMIWLEZIWTEVWIKVSYRHƽSVE[LMPIQSMWXIV slopes support a variety of herbaceous

plants like Oxalis, Thalictrum, and bamboo thickets. Usnea longissima lichens drape JVSQ XLI ƼV trees (DoFPS, 2022). Residents depend on the JSVIWXJSVXMQFIVƼVI[SSHJIRGMRKTSWXWERH ƽEKTSPIW Socio-economic status and main livelihood activities In Phobjikha, there are three primary level schools that cater to the educational needs of the local community. According to the gewog’s data from 2017, a total of 254 students were enrolled in these schools, with an impressive 98% of them successfully passing their exams and advancing to the next level. The schools are staffed by a team of 9 dedicated teachers, VIWYPXMRKMREWXYHIRXXSXIEGLIVVEXMSSJ Additionally, the gewog is equipped with two healthcare centers, which are supported by 4 village health workers and no professional-level health staff. Community has access to basic healthcare service. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN The

gewog’s terrain is rugged, much of the agricultural land is situated on gentle slopes, with vast stretches of fertile land in the valley. The valley is highly suitable for potato cultivation, which is the most dominant cash crop grown on a large scale for commercial purposes. Potato farming contributes to near- ly 90% of the people’s cash income, which is YWIHXSTYVGLEWIRIGIWWMXMIWWYƾGMIRXXSPEWX JSVE]IEV8LMWLEWTPE]IHEWMKRMƼGERXVSPIMR improving the livelihoods of the people, thereby reducing poverty incidences at the individual level across the gewog. The main crops TVSHYGIHEVI Table No.1 : Main crops grown and average production annually ( Source: Gewog Information sheet) Crop Areas in Acres Production in kg Kg Sold for Income Barley 3 1494 490 Buckwheat 47 10,637 7450 Potato 906 5,948,497 4,758,797 Turnip 266 2,127,997 0 Cattle rearing is also another livelihood activity of the valley. Type of livestock and its production in 2023 were

provided in table No 2 FIPS[ Table No. 2: Types of livestock ( Source: gewog information) Types of livestock Numbers Local cattle 2784 Jersey cross 632 Brown Swiss Cross 68 Mithun Cross 62 Yak 104 Sheep 657 Local Poultry 744 Improved poultry 107 The main products are butter, cheese, chugo and fresh milk and its average annual production and contribution to average annual income is shown in table No. 3 Table No. 3 : Livestock products and average quantity produced annually Products Total Production average Annually (kgs) Contribution to Average Income (kgs) Butter 13,324 4122 Cheese 23,880 7283 Chugo 264 194 Milk 25,867 11,601 Moreover, the introduction of the Home-Stay program in the villages adds value for foreign visitors by allowing them to experience the living styles, food habits, and culture of the people in these remote areas. However, not much LEW FIIR WMKRMƼGERXP] KEMRIH F] XLI TVSTVMetors of the few Home-Stays in the gewog, as most

tourists tend to opt for larger hotels. Yet, the program holds great potential for ecotourism, provided proper initiatives are implemented, and the community shows willingness for necessary changes moving forward. 71 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 72 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN In Sephu, there are two primary level schools that cater to the educational needs of the local community. According to the gewog’s data from 2016, a total of 233 students were enrolled in these schools, with an 97% of them successfully passing their exams and advancing to the next level. The schools are staffed by a team of 12 teachers, resulting in a stuHIRXXSXIEGLIVVEXMSSJ%HHMXMSREPP]XLI gewog is equipped with two healthcare centers, which are supported by 4 village health workers and no professional-level health staff. The community has access to basic healthcare services. The main livelihood activities are livestock products, NWFP such as

cordyceps, and potato farming. The gewog holds 63069 acres of dry land, with potato cultivation being the dominant agricultural activity. Most of the produce is sold to the Punatshangchu project through farmers’ groups (MEA, 2022). Sephu produces various products for livelihood and income generation (Table No. 3) Table No. 4: Livelihood activities and its production of Sephu Gewog Sl. No Livelihood products Quantity produced in 2023 1. Yak/Cattle products (butter, cheese and milk 233.44 MT 2 Cordyceps 78.84 Kilograms 3 Potato 913.34 MT 4 Vegetables 179.18 MT 7SYVGI (^SRKOLEK%HQMRMWXVEXMSR Wangdu, Accessed 14/9/2024) The gewog has high potential for livestock farming and has established a milk processing unit at Rukubji. The types of cattle include Jersey crossbreeds, Brown Swiss cross- breeds, local cattle, and yaks. Table No 5 shows the livestock population in the gewog. Table No. 5: Types of cattle and population of Sephu Gewog (Source: Gewog information sheet)

Sl. No Type of Cattle Number 1. Yak 2136 2 Brown Swiss Cross 157 3 Jersey Cross 477 4 Local cattle 958 Total 3728 Since the legalization of Cordyceps harvesting in 2004, the livelihoods of highlanders have MQTVSZIH WMKRMƼGERXP] 8LI 'SVH]GITW LEVZIWXFIRIƼXWXLVIIKI[SKWƂ7ITLYMR;ERKdue, Chokhor and Tang in Bumthangout of the nine gewogs located within the park. With the recent boom in the Cordyceps business, semi-nomadic communities have been earning substantial income from Cordyceps sales. As a result, many highlanders can now afford decent houses for their families, and a majority of households own motor vehicles (DoFPS, 2022). During the Cordyceps season in May and June, villagers migrate to the highlands for Cordyceps collection, leaving behind those unable to make the journey. Although the site itself is not located in a Cordyceps harvesting area, the gewog administration issues three permits per household for one month to allow Cordyceps

collection. This has become one of the primary sources of income for the population of Sephu Gewog. The average monthly household income in the village ranges from Nu 20,000 to 30,000. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Issues / Challenges · Despite agriculture being one of the backbones of farmers’ livelihoods, several limiting factors affect its growth. Among the QER] HMƾGYPXMIW JEGIH F] JEVQIVW GVST damage caused by wild animals is the major constraint, highlighting the ongoing and KVS[MRKMWWYISJLYQER[MPHPMJIGSRƽMGXMR the park area. · Livestock depredation has increased over the years because Wangchuck Centennial 2EXMSREP 4EVO ;'24  LEVFSVW E WMKRMƼcant number of predator species, including tigers, snow leopards, common leopards, Himalayan black bears, dholes, Tibetan wolves, and other small predators like yellow-throated martens, red foxes, and small wild cats. Livestock

killings have been attributed to dholes, tigers, common leopards, Himalayan black bears, and snow leopards (DoFPS, 2022), exacerbated by ERMRIƾGMIRXGSQTIRWEXMSRWGLIQI · Waste management is a major challenge. There is no proper waste disposal site near Sephu and Phobjikha, and the nearest PERHƼPPMWMR8VSRKWE · The yak population is declining due to various factors such as security threats, a low level of interest in yak herding among younger generations, changing lifestyles, ERH XLI TVSƼXEFMPMX] SJ 'SVH]GITW GSPPIGtion. · There is rapid degradation of pastureland. · =EO QMKVEXMSR LEW FIGSQI QSVI HMƾGYPX due to the destruction of trails and bridges, with little to no support from the gewog for trail maintenance. · Climate change is causing extreme weather events, including excessive rain and snow, as well as prolonged dry seasons · Inadequate potato storage facilities and marketing have a huge challenge for Phobjikha Gewog (low prices,

transportation issues, damage due to extreme heat in Phuntsholing, time-consuming manual grading) · Low-quality cattle breeds, with very few Jersey breeds and a high number of crossbreeds · Low capacity within the community for effective livestock management Opportunities · Initiate livestock and crop insurance scheme to compensate the losses of crop and livestock to wildlife · Increasing livestock product production through value addition using advance technologies · Improvement of pasturelands and the living conditions of yak herders · Facilitate with cold storage facility and marketing of the livestock products and potato particularly to Sephu communities such as Milk Processing Unit (MPU) for the upper valley of Sephu and Phobjikha 73 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 74 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN · %VXMƼGMEP-RWIQMREXMSR %- JEGMPMX]XSMQprove cattle breeds · Capacity-building programs for the community on

processing, packaging and marketing. STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 11 Appendix C: 5 K   
   4LSXS0E]E'SQQYRMX]+EWE(MWXVMGX 4LSXS.SYVREPMWXWƅ%WWSGMEXMSRSJ &LYXERMR0E]EZMPPEKI+EWE(MWXVMGX 4LSXS&EVPI][MRRS[MRKEX7EOXIRK Trashigang District 75 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 76 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 4LSXS'SQQYRMX]SJ7EOXIRK +EXLIVMRK8VEWLMKERK(MWXVMGX 4LSXS:MPPEKISJ7EOXIRK Trashigang District 4LSXS1IVEO:MPPEKI Trashigang District STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 4LSXS=EOWMR0YRERE+I[SK +EWE(MWXVMGX 4LSXS1IIXMRK[MXL./726'LMIJ *SVIWXV]3ƾGIVERHWXEJJ,EE 77 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 78 HIGHLAND

LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 4LSXS1IIXMRK[MXL)YWY+YTERH 1ERKQMSJ)YWY+I[SK,EE(MWXVMGX 4LSXS/EXWLS+YT[MXL')3 SJ+&'0ERH)IGYXMZI(MVIGXSV .SYVREPMWXWƅ%WWSGMEXMSRSJ&LYXER 4LSXS0MRK^LM:MPPEKI 8LMQTLY(^SRKOLEK 4LSXS0MRK^LM(^SRKYRHIV 8LMQTLY(^SRKOLEK STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN 4LSX4EWXYVIPERHEX7IS +I[SKMR8LMQTLY(MWXVMGX 4LSXS;EXIVWSYVGIJVSQ 0MRK^LM8LMQTLY(MWXVMGX 4LSXS+VE^MRKPERHYRHIV 2EVS+I[SK8LMQTLY(MWXVMGX 79 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 80 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN  &-&0-3+6%4,= Gillison, A. N (2012) Biodiversity in Bhutan: A preliminary synthesis. Queensland Nepal, T. K (2021) Sustainability of Biodiversity in Bhutan India Nepal & Manita, T. K (2021) An updated Checklist of Globally Threatened Species in Bhutan as Listed ion IUCN Red

List of Threatened Species. Internastional Journal of Science and Research, March 2021 Tschentscher & Mock, G. T (2016) A COMMUNITY-BASED APPROACH TO RESILIENT AND SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPES Lessons from Phase II of the COMDEKS Programme. United Nations Development Programme, 304 East 45th Street New York, NY 10017. LXXTW[[[VESRPMRIGLTEKIWWXSV] bt/btbg glacier02a.html accessed on 20/9/24). Weather and Climate - The Global Historical Weather and Climate Data. (Access on 12/10/24). DoFPS. (2021) Conservation Management 40ER.MKQI/LIWEV7XVMGX2EXYVI6IWIVZI Dzongkhag Administration, Wangdu. (Accessed 14/9/2024) Dzongkhag Information UNU-IAS, Biodiversity International. (2014) IGES and UNDP(2014) Toolkit for the indicators of Resilience in Socio-ecological Production Landscapes and Seasscapes. Aryal, S. M (2014) Sustainability of trasnhumance grazing system under socio-econmic threats in Langtang, Nepal Journal of Mountain Science 11(4);1023-1034. Dorji, T. e (2023)

Understanding the impact of climate change and resilience among highlanders in northern parts of Bhutan: A case study in Gasa district.LXXTWHSM org/10.1371/journalpclm0000079 Moktan, M. R (2008) Ecological and Social Aspects of Transhumant Herding in Bhutan.-RXIVREXMSREP1SYRXEMR7SGMIX]960 LXXTWHSMSVKQVH Department of Forests and Park Services. (2021). Conservation Management Plan of .(248LMQTLY(S*47 National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology. (2023) State of the Climate 8LMQTLY NCHM. National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology. (2024) Climate Change Project Report of Bhutan.8LMQTLY2',1 DoFPS. (2023) National Forestry Inventory - State of Forest Report - Vol I.8LMQTLY DoFPS. DoFPS. (2021) Consevation Management 4PERSJ.MKQI(SVNM2EXMSREP4EVO ThimTLY(S*47 Gasa Dzongkhag Administration. (2023) Geogrpahical Information and Distinctive Features. Trashigang Dzongkhag Information. (2024) Gewog Information. Department of Human

Settlement. (2015) Report on the study of Merak. MOWHS Global Forest Watch. (access 11/09/2024) LXXTW[[[KPSFEPJSVIWX[EXGLSVKHEWLboards/country/BTN/15/7/?category=summary&map=eyJjYW5Cb3VuZCI6dHJ1ZSwiZGF0YXNldHMiOlt7ImRhdGFzZXQiOiJwb2xpdGljYWwtYm91bmRhcmllcyIsImxheWVycyI6WyJkaXNwdXRlZC1wb2xpdGljYWwtYm91bmRhcmllcyIsInBvb- STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN Gl0aWNhbC1ib3VuZGFyaWVzIl0. DoFPS. (2019) Conservation Management Plan of Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary. DoFPS DoFPS. (2022) Conservation Management 4PER .ERYEV](IGIQFIV  Wangchuck Centennial National Park. MEA. (2022) Initial Environment Examination - Renewable Energy for Climate Resilience. Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag. (Accessed on 16/9/24)). Dzongkhag Infromation Royal Soceity for Protection of Nature. (2014). Study on climate change impact on Wetland ecosystem Phobjikha, West Central Bhutan. Bumthang Dzongkhag . (Accessed on 17/9/2024).

Gewog Infromation Wangchuk, S. B (2023) Exploring HuQER;MPHPMJI'SRƽMGXERH-QTPMGEXMSRJSV JSSHWIPJWYƾGMIRG]MR&LYXER www.comdeksprojectcom LXXTWEXS]EQEMRMXMEXMZISVK 81 STRATEGY FOR BUILDING SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF THE 82 HIGHLAND LANDSCAPE AREA OF BHUTAN GEF- Small Grants Programs UNDP United Nations House, Peling Lam, Kawangjasa, Thimphu, Bhutan Contact #p Mqc>?@<::;:;p"/a<<8ê<<9q