In 2023-24, a key focus was on building the capacity of members of the Naga Conservation Association (N-Ca) through workshops and training sessions on wetland ecology, management techniques, and the importance of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) principles. This investment in human capital equipped N-Ca with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead conservation initiatives.
FoW and N-Ca also brought together 35 participants from 21 villages, including local leaders, community members, and representatives from diverse backgrounds. These workshops provided a platform for open dialogue, allowing community members to share their perspectives, concerns, and traditional knowledge about the wetlands. This participatory approach fostered a sense of ownership and ensured that local voices were central to the decision-making process.
Finally, FoW and N-Ca collected baseline data, including climate change vulnerability assessments, to inform conservation strategies. This comprehensive data gathering provided valuable insights into the ecological health of the wetlands and the socio-economic conditions of the surrounding communities. This information will be instrumental in developing and implementing effective conservation strategies that address the unique challenges faced by these ecosystems. These collective efforts, involving 800 individuals across 21 villages, laid a strong foundation for the long-term sustainability of these vital ecosystems.
Despite facing challenges such as travel restrictions and logistical hurdles, the project witnessed significant progress with community-led conservation actions. Local communities actively participated in:
- Tree planting initiatives: Restoring degraded areas around the lakeshores with native tree seedlings.
- Community clean-up campaigns: Removing approximately 1,500 kilograms of garbage and debris from the lake ecosystems.
- Boundary demarcation: Defining clear boundaries for the lakes to ensure their protection, engaging 6 village-level conservation groups in the process.
