Wildlife Conservation Plan
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Overview of Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP)
A Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP), also called a Wildlife Management Plan, is essential for biodiversity management and wildlife protection within and around project areas. Its primary goal is to maintain a stress-free habitat that supports resident wildlife and meets their basic needs, even amid development activities. WCPs rely on sustainable and scientific management of natural resources to safeguard wildlife from harmful human impacts while allowing for responsible development.
Importance of Wildlife Conservation Planning
- Human-wildlife conflicts arise due to habitat fragmentation and degradation caused by unregulated development.
- Conservation of flora and fauna is mandatory in ecologically sensitive zones near project sites (buffer zones).
- Wildlife Conservation Plans are required as part of Environmental Clearance (EC) compliance under MoEF&CC.
- Necessary when project areas fall near protected areas such as Wildlife Sanctuaries, National Parks, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, and Tiger and Elephant Reserves (existing or proposed).
Key Indian Wildlife Conservation Initiatives
- Project Tiger
- Project Elephant
- Sea Turtle Conservation Project
- Project Vulture
- Crocodile Conservation Project
- Project Dolphin
- SAWEN (South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network)
- Captive Breeding Programs
Importance of Wildlife Conservation Planning
- The WCP primarily assesses the current status of flora, fauna, and habitat within the project area and a 10 km buffer zone.
- Conservation of flora and fauna is mandatory in ecologically sensitive zones near project sites (buffer zones).
- Wildlife Conservation Plans are required as part of Environmental Clearance (EC) compliance under MoEF&CC.
- The WCP forms a vital part of the Environmental Clearance (EC) process and forest diversion approvals, ensuring projects do not harm wildlife and their habitats.
Key Aspects of Wildlife Conservation Plan (WCP)
- Introduction: Includes background, objectives, scope, project area’s topography, wildlife movement, infrastructure, and relevant laws.
- Project Impact and Conservation Plan: Includes an environmental impact assessment covering soil, vegetation, water regimes, and wildlife.
- Mitigation Strategies: Includes compensatory afforestation, prevention of faunal mortality, green shelterbelts, muck-dump management, habitat restoration, and noise control.
- Management and Implementation Plan: Outlines conservation measures, environmental management, monitoring, and interim reviews.
Application Process for WCP Approval
- The project proponent must submit the WCP to the Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF) with required documents.
- Documents include project proponent details, location, cost, buffer zone, activities, list of ecologically sensitive areas, species involved, and flora/fauna lists from field surveys.
- After authentication by DCF, documents are forwarded to the Chief Wildlife Warden (CWLW) for final approval.
Significance of WCP in Environmental Clearance
- Under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, and MoEF&CC notifications (14th September 2006), obtaining a WCP is mandatory for projects near protected areas.
- The WCP ensures the project does not harm wildlife and habitats, making it essential for obtaining environmental clearance.