Worldwide Nepalese Students' Organisation Sri Lanka
Ghoda-Ghodi Tal
Over 200 species of birds have been identified in Kailali's Ghoda-Ghodi Tal area, and the Ghoda-Ghodi Tal is considered to be an internationally significant wetland as it is used by a variety of migratory birds. The intake area of the Ghoda-ghodi was once covered with Ratan that is reflected in its name Beteni. The influx of people from the hills has lead to deforestation of this area, which has in turn led to siltation and encroachment problems in the lakes. Three VDCs (Ramsikharjhala, Sandepani and Darakh) around the lake have initiated activities to help protect this wetland's resources. SCDP together with the Global Environment Facilityfs Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP) has made efforts to make the local population more aware of their natural assets. CBOs from the surrounding VDCs have gradually come together to address the problems encountered. SCDP has made a map and information board to inform the visitors about the lake. The Janasewa CBO of Sandepani VDC has planted 10 800 Ratan plants on 6.8 Ha of land around Budhiya Lake (one of the lakes near the headwaters of the Ghoda-Ghodi) in an effort to reestablish the Beteni. Furthermore, issues pertaining to conserving and preserving the lakes are continuously raised during CBO meetings.
In these three areas SCDP has helped raise local awareness about the importance of wetlands and lakes. The Signboards have been placed at each site by concerned CBOs that emphasize the need of conservation of these wetlands.