Status of Wetland in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal

Abstract

Wetland means the surface of the earth that is permanently or seasonally or partially covered with water. Wetlands are most productive areas for biodiversity and local livelihood support. Nepal ra-tified Ramsar convention in 1987 and started to include the wetland in Ramsar site and till now nine wetland sites are included in Ramsar site. There are still lacking systematic research and con-servation approach for these wetlands; therefore, our study attempted to assess the status of wet-lands in the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal; and explored threats and conservation chal-lenges. We prepared list of streams and lakes and collected detail information regarding area, district, block, elevation and cultural as well as ecological importance of lakes. We recorded total 11 lakes with total 304477 m 2 areas. The Sundaha lake is largest lake of the reserve having signif-icant religious importance. We also recorded 7 streams in the reserve. Wetlands of the reserve were facing problem of sedimentation, pollution, and change in climate has also effects on these wetland ecosystem and their importance.