Conservation planning for biodiversity of Askot landscape using minimum opportunity cost

Student name: Ms Debasmita Lahiri
Guide: Dr Neeti
Year of completion: 2021
Host Organisation: Wildlife Institute of India
Supervisor (Host Organisation): Dr Gautam Talukdar

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Abstract:

Using systematic conservation planning, this study identifies priority conservation area of Askot Landscape which conserves biodiversity of the landscape and also not impair the prospect of livelihood development of the inhabitants. This study identified 13 conservation features and used MARXAN optimisation algorithm to achieve conservation goals at least possible cost. The solutions produced, marked possibility of well connected, compact reserve system that meets all conservation targets. Along with that, the solutions suggest an available area on west of Askot landscape which can be managed for sustainable development of human population of the region. Although this analysis is based on Askot landscape of Uttarakhand, similar approach in deriving practical solutions can be used in other regions too.

Keywords: Askot Landscape, Conservation goals, Development, MARXAN, Systematic Conservation Planning.