Study of the Ecotourism Management Option for Improved Waterbird Conservation in the Core Areas of Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve

Objectives

• To study the population, species diversity, behaviour, and ecological needs of rare waterbirds
• To assess the impact of the ecotourism on waterbird ecology and its carrying capacity
• To study ecotourism potential and economic benefit
• To develop management policy for ecotourism promotion
  

Research Theme Biological Uses and Values

Activities

• Compilation of existing data on populations, species diversity, ecology of waterbirds
• Collection of additional primary data on waterbird population and species, and human disturbance
• Mapping of nesting sites and feeding areas of rare waterbirds using GPS and topographic map
• Conducting impact assessment of ecotourism on waterbird ecology and its habitat, including constraints and opportunities
• Conducting interview for estimation of potential number of visitors and economic value using travel cost (local travel and entrance fee) and willingness to pay methods
• Conducting socio-economic study and economic benefits of ecotourism using PRA method in combination with survey questionnaires
• Development of management policy for sustainable ecotourism promotion and equitable benefit sharing.
  

Expected Outputs

• Improved understanding of the ecology of rare waterbirds and habitats
• Estimated potential and economic value of ecotourism
• Harmonization of ecotourism and waterbird conservation
• Management policy is put in place to ensure sustainable ecotourism.

Project cost 15,000 EURO

Project Duration 12 months

Project Site Tonle Sap Reserve