I'm just getting ready in the pre-dawn for the long trek ahead into Asa's territory and back down. It's a food drop, camera trap check and of course time monitoring the young leopard. It's important to move quickly and get back before the temperature plummets.
More disagreement between political parties has meant outbreaks of violence and uncertainty. It is imperative the constitution is written and approved soon. It is a process that has continued too long. From a conservation standpoint it means staying strong at a local level, calm is needed.
Thanks to those people who have read my posts from yesterday. Support and new developments are heartening. I'll blog again in a few days with news how WildTiger is instigating a proposal to have this area recognized by UNESCO most likely in the form of a Biosphere Reserve. This is something I have been researching and working on for around four years now. The news a few days ago that the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has a five year extension certainly aids this vision.
This area is a stronghold of the Gurung, a proud mountain people. My good friend Najar Man Gurung has been a most helpful colleague in my study. Najar has also been a driving force in the approval of the new Health Post in Chhomrong, a positive development again showing how strong community action can still make gain while the uncertainty at national level continues.
The Gurung have long been the mainstay of the Gurka regiment, world renowned soldiers. These tough men have served with loyalty for many years and I have found that in these mountain communities they have a strength I can rely on during testing project work. There is also heart and kindness and at this point I also want to thank Bel Bahadur Gurung, his family and team for their support in Ghandruk especially when I return from long stints with Asa. The remarkable Jagan Gurung is another who has provided great support over the years. Jagan has done incredible work for women's empowerment as well as environmental issues with her efforts being recognized by the Nobel Peace Prize Commitee.
I'll be talking more about the Gurung and conservation at ground level but it's important to note that while political infighting continues and unfortunate consequences such as continual strikes and violent outbreaks result there is at the local level the resolve to keep things going in as peaceful manner as possible.
I briefly attended a Gurung wedding a few nights ago. Most of us were in down jackets to ward off the cold but warm spirit was reflected in the way that the father of the bride, Man Prasad Gurung, had invited people of all castes to be there. This is the type of thing that gives hope for a one day unified Nepal and bright hopes for this beautiful country dominated by the mighty Himalaya.
