Controlling Giant Mimosa (Mimosa pigra) to Restore Wetland Habitat in Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape

Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape is an important seasonal wetland ecosystem in southeastern Cambodia, providing valuable habitats for biodiversity, aquatic species, and important waterbirds, while also supporting local communities through essential ecosystem services.

However, the rapid spread of Giant Mimosa (Mimosa pigra), an invasive alien plant species, has become a major threat to this ecosystem. The dense growth of Mimosa has transformed natural grasslands and wetland habitats into shrublands, reducing habitat quality and limiting suitable feeding areas for important species, especially the Sarus Crane.

To address this challenge, NatureLife Cambodia, in collaboration with Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT), Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape management team, and local communities, has been implementing a long-term Giant Mimosa control program under the 2026–2030 Plan. The control activities focus on priority wetland habitats covering about 150 hectares, aiming to reduce Mimosa density, prevent further spread, and restore suitable wetland habitats for wildlife. Activities include cutting mature plants before and after the flood season, collecting mature fruits and safely disposing of them to prevent seed dispersal and reduce the regeneration.

From 28 June to 5 July 2026, a total of 35 participants from NatureLife Cambodia, WWT, Boeng Prek Lpov Protected Landscape Management team, and local communities from Kdol Chrum, Samkum Meang Chey, Deilerk, and Tarakum villages joined the Mimosa control activities.

As a result, the team successfully cleared approximately 150 hectares of priority habitat and collected 205 bags (5 kg) of Mimosa seed-bearing fruits, helping to reduce future seed dispersal and support wetland habitat recovery.