Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape need management plan in urgent

By Ly Samphors

On September 17, 2026, NatureLife Cambodia participated in a provincial consultation meeting on the development of the Management Plan for the Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape, held at the Takeo Provincial Department of Environment.

The meeting was presided over by H.E. Thai Chantha, Deputy Director General of the General Directorate of Natural Protected Areas of the Ministry of Environment; H.E. Ngin Ninda, Deputy Governor of Takeo Province; and Mr. Hong Chamnan, Director of the Freshwater Wetland Conservation Department of the Ministry of Environment. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Takeo Provincial Department of Environment, relevant provincial departments, two deputy district governors, commune chiefs and council members, partner organization WWT, and other relevant stakeholders, with approximately 35 participants in total.

The presidium emphasized the importance of management and conserving this protected area’s zoning plan especially core zone, which covers approximately 935 hectares and serves as a key area for biodiversity conservation. The core zone provides important breeding and feeding habitats for birds, particularly critically endangered and vulnerable species including Sarus Cranes and Yellow-breasted Buntings. The presidium also encouraged relevant stakeholders to strengthen local community livelihoods through ecotourism and other appropriate development and conservation initiatives.

During the meeting, several important presentations were delivered to gather inputs for the development of the Management Plan, including:

• NatureLife Cambodia: A presentation on the biodiversity and socio-economic values of the Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape.

• WWT: A presentation on the progress of projects being implemented within the protected landscape.

• Ministry of Environment Technical Officers: A presentation on the results of data collection and local-level consultations, as well as the general characteristics, importance, and methodology for preparing the Management Plan.

As result, participants engaged in active discussions on the vision, mission, objectives, and strategic programs of the Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape Management Plan, with the aim of ensuring the long-term conservation of biodiversity while supporting sustainable local development.​ After received inputs from provincial stakeholders, the draft management plan of Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape will be improved for national consultation meeting.