Handa Island

Handa Island () or simply Handa is an island off the west coast of Sutherland, Scotland. It is and at its highest point.
The island is of national importance for its birdlife and maritime vegetation, and is a Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and a Special Protection Area (SPA). Handa also forms part of the North-West Sutherland national scenic area, one of 40 such areas in Scotland.
A small ferry sails to Handa from Tarbet on the mainland and boat trips operate to it from Fanagmore. The island receives five thousand visitors per annum.
Geography and geology.
Handa is composed of Torridonian red sandstone and surrounded by cliffs covered with birds. In the north is a hill with two peaks, with the south and east being lower lying. The north and west have cliffs, and there are beaches in the south and east. The Sound of Handa separates it from the mainland and smaller islands around Handa include Glas-Leac to the south, Eilean an Aigeach to the north east and Stac an t-Sealbhaig to the north.
Flora and fauna.
Handa is noted for its birdlife, which includes puffins, razorbills and guillemots. The SPA designation lists six priority species: fulmar, great skua, guillemot, kittiwake, and razorbill. The breeding colonies of razorbills and guillemots on Handa are the largest in the UK, representing 11% and 9% of the total British population respectively. The arctic skua and kittiwake populations are also of national importance, representing >1% and 2% of the British population respectively. Other birds at Handa include eider ducks and oystercatchers, and seals and otters can often be seen at Boulder Bay on the island's southern coast. Dolphins, basking sharks and several species of whale regularly visit the seas surrounding Handa.
Handa is also of national importance for its maritime vegetation. The exposed cliff tops are home to maritime grassland species that can tolerate salt, such as thrift, sea plantain and "Festuca rubra". In less exposed areas can be found herb-rich grasslands which support species such as Yorkshire fog, bluebell and Scots lovage. Heather and crowberry are also widespread across the island.
History.
The island's name is of mixed Gaelic and Norse origin and means "island at the sandy river".
Anciently the island was used as a burial place, and there are still the remains of a chapel in the south east, commemorated in the name Tràigh an Teampaill (Beach of the Temple). The use of Handa as burial place is thought to be due to the fact that wolves would dig up graves on the mainland so frequently that the inhabitants of Eddrachillis resorted to burying their dead on the island:
It had a population of 65 in 1841, but following the 1847 potato famine the inhabitants emigrated to Nova Scotia. In some ways this is surprising, since it is recorded that the islanders had a fairly varied diet including oats, fish and seabirds, rather than depending heavily on a potato crop. The islanders had a parliament, similar to that of St Kilda, which met daily, and the oldest widow on the island was considered its "Queen".
The Great Stack of Handa was first climbed from the sea on 1 August 1969 by Graeme Hunter, Hamish MacInnes & Douglas Lang.
The island is now part of the Scourie Estate, owned by Dr Jean Balfour and J.C. Balfour. The Balfours leased Handa to the RSPB for 25 years, however this lease was not renewed, because the Balfours wished a Scottish-based body to run the island; as a result the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) took it over. Under the SWT the island is managed by one warden and a handful of volunteers during the summer months.


St. Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve

St. Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve is a Voluntary Marine Reserve—the first established in the United Kingdom. Located in the Scottish Borders, it covers 8 km of the Berwickshire coast, from Eyemouth in the south to St. Abb's Head in the north. At its centre is the fishing village of St. Abbs.
The reserve is one of the most popular scuba diving locations in the United Kingdom. The water of the reserve is unusually clear, in contrast to the more silt-laden coastal waters further to the north or south. The reserve was opened on 18 August 1984 by David Bellamy.


List of giant pandas

This is a list of giant pandas, both alive and deceased. The giant panda is a conservation-reliant vulnerable species. Wild population estimates vary; one estimate shows that there are about 1,590 individuals living in the wild, while a 2006 study via DNA analysis estimated that this figure could be as high as 2,000 to 3,000.
In zoos.
Asia
Many zoos and breeding centers in China house giant pandas. These include:
Australia
Europe
North America
North American-born pandas


Environment Conservation Group

Environment Conservation Group (ECG) is a non-governmental organization based in Coimbatore, India. The group is active since 2009 and works towards conservation of the environment and wildlife. ECG was formed by a group of wildlife and environmental enthusiasts headed by environmental activist Mohammed Saleem.
The group is also involved in monitoring the wetlands of Coimbatore against dumping of debris and encroachments. ECG is also involved in wildlife conservation and rescuing birds from the wildlife trade. The group is involved in stopping the felling of trees and conducting awareness programmes.
A group of five wildlife conservationist from ECG led by its president R. Mohammed Saleem traveled about 20,000 Kilometers across 22states of India to study roadkill and spread awareness on the impact of roads on wildlife, in February 2016. The team traveled through major wildlife sanctuaries and visited major institutions like IIT Guwahati, University of Jammu, American College, Madurai and University of Calicut to spread awareness among students.
A second international expedition named Save Endangered, Endemic and Key Species (SEEK) was headed by R. Mohammed Saleem, President and Managing Trustee of the organisation. The expedition was sponsored by WULF pro and WWF, they visited various wildlife sanctuaries across India. They spread awareness in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Tribhuvan University and Golden Gate International CollegeKathmandu Nepal, IIT Guwahati and many other educational Institutions. The four members traveled for 60 days across India and the neighbouring countries of Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. The expedition was sponsored by WWF, Mahindra Scorpio, Wulf Pro, MapmyIndia and CRI Pumps.
The third expedition SEEK2019 was organised to document the threatened birds of India as well as to spread awareness on the importance of birds. The four member SEEK2019 team consisted of Dr. P.A. Azeez, former director - Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, Dr. Ravi Rishi - a physician, Mr. Makathan, headed by Mr. R. Mohammed Saleem. The team travelled across India for 79 days in search of elusive and rare birds. The team were successful in spotting the whinchat for the first time in India.
 During the expedition the team visited various educational institutions and NGOs. The expedition was sponsored by Zeiss, Coimbatore City Roun Table 31, NM & Co., Wulf Pro, MapmyIndia, Pricol, Sulochana Mills and Twin Birds


Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary

The Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary () is a protected area at the western extremities of the Cardamom Mountains in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand. Founded in 1977, it is an IUCN Category IV wildlife sanctuary, measuring over 1,000 km2 (67,400 rai; 10,784 ha) in area. South-east of, and connected with, the wildlife sanctuary is the Khao Sip Ha Chan National Park. South-west of the protection is the Khao Chamao–Khao Wong National Park.
The sanctuary is partly covered by lowland evergreen forest, along with dry and moist evergreens, mixed deciduous, deciduous dipterocarp, as well as grassland.
Human-elephant conflict.
The Thai Department of National Parks (DNP) has estimated that in 2008 the elephant population of Khao Ang Rue Nai was just 219 animals. In recent years this number has grown by 9.83 percent per year, meaning that the reserve now has 275 or so elephants. The twenty new animals born every year exceed the death rate. Their expanding population has meant that they travel further afield in search of food. Thus the villages that border the sanctuary are subject to about 25 raids on crops per month. Due to the average crop damage of six rai per year per household, crop damage costs each household nearly 35,000 baht or 19 percent of average household income. Affected households spend an average of 212 nights awake per year guarding their fields. The DNP has resorted to various measures to reduce the conflict, including growing food crops in the forest for the animals. A spokesman for the DNP noted, on behalf of the elephants, that, "We are also encroaching into forest, making it harder for elephants, which already face limited food sources...it is our task not to invade their homes."


Hexagon pool

The Hexagon Pool (, "Breichat HaMeshushim") is a natural pool in the Meshushim Reserve, part of the Yehudiya Forest Nature Reserve, in the central Golan Heights.
The pool, at the bottom of a canyon, is named after the shape of the hexagonal basalt columns that make up its walls. This geological formation was created by the slow cooling of layers of lava flows over a long period. When the lava solidified and cooled, it was split into polygonal shapes due to its contraction.
Geology.
A cascade of water, such as a waterfall, created the pool. The walls are columns of basalt in angular formations that appear man-made. The columns reach a height of approximately , and most have five or six sides. The diameter of each column is between . Walls of basalt columns exist in other places in the Golan Heights, along the Meshushim (Hexagons) and Zavitan Rivers.
Hiking.
The easiest access is north of the community settlement of Had Nes on Route 888 where a junction leads to the Nature Reserve. From there a 30-minute downhill walk leads to the pool.
Access to the pool is normally allowed. The water temperature rarely exceeds , even in summer.


United States National System of Marine Protected Areas

The National System of Marine Protected Areas of the United States is a national initiative designed to strengthen the protection of U.S. ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources through the coordination of existing marine protected areas (MPAs). The national system of MPAs consists of the group of MPA sites, networks, and systems established and managed by federal, state, territorial, tribal and/or local governments that collectively enhance conservation of the nation's marine heritage and represent its diverse ecosystems and resources. Although managed independently, national system MPAs work together at the regional and national levels to achieve common objectives for conserving the nation's important natural and cultural resources. The national system does not bring state, territorial or local sites under federal authority, nor does it restrict or change the management of any MPA.
Background.
Over the past century, MPAs have been created by a mix of federal, state, and local legislation, voter initiatives, and regulations, each established for its own specific purpose. As a result, the nation's collection of MPAs (e.g., reserves, refuges, preserves, sanctuaries, areas of special biological significance, and others) is fragmented, complex, confusing, and potentially missing opportunities for broader regional conservation through coordinated planning and management. In 2000, a broad coalition of scientists petitioned the White House to create a national system of MPAs to improve conservation of the nation's marine ecosystems, cultural resources, and fisheries. Presidential Executive Order 13158 was signed by President Bill Clinton on May 26, 2000, directing the Department of Commerce to work with the Department of the Interior, other federal agencies, states, territories, tribes and stakeholders to establish a national system of MPAs to integrate and enhance the nation's MPAs, bringing these diverse sites and programs together to work on common conservation objectives.
MPAs protect ecosystems and resources such as coral reefs, kelp forests, shipwrecks, and those areas frequented by whales and other marine life. They also can provide protection to economically valuable coastal and marine resources including commercial and recreational fisheries. The national system includes MPAs throughout the marine environment of the U.S. and its territories, including coastal areas, estuaries, oceans and the Great Lakes. As a first step in developing the national system of MPAs, the MPA Center compiled an MPA Inventory of all MPAs in U.S. waters. The U.S. has over 1,600 MPAs, ranging from typically small fully protected marine reserves where extractive uses are prohibited to large, multiple-use areas where fishing, diving and other uses are permitted. Most MPAs in U.S. waters allow some type of extractive use, with less than 1% of U.S. waters fully protected marine reserves where extractive activities are not permitted.
The national system is described in detail in the for a National System of Marine Protected Areas of the United States of America".
In April 2009 the National System of Marine Protected Areas was officially established with the acceptance of the first 225 charter sites. A second nomination process was held in Fall 2009, and additional sites will be admitted to the system in 2010 on an annual basis thereafter. The nomination process is transparent, science-based, and provides an opportunity for public comment.
The national system of MPAs provides the first comprehensive mechanism for coordinating MPAs managed by diverse federal, state, territorial, tribal and local agencies to work toward national conservation objectives. The system will benefit the nation's collective conservation efforts and participating MPAs, providing those sites with a means to address issues beyond their boundaries. Examples of some of these benefits include:


Sai Kung East Country Park

Sai Kung East Country Park () is a country park on the Sai Kung Peninsula in Hong Kong. It opened in 1978 and has features including:


McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy (The Conservancy) is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) conservation organization. Its published mission is to “champion the sustainability of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve (The Preserve) for the benefit of this and future generations. As stewards, we connect the community to the Preserve through education, research, advocacy, partnerships and safe, respectful access.” The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the largest urban preserve in the U.S. (List of urban parks by size), located within the city limits of Scottsdale, Arizona. It encompasses more than of upper Sonoran Desert, including large portions of the McDowell Mountains.
The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, in partnership with the City of Scottsdale, provides for stewardship of the land within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. A small paid staff works with volunteers, known as stewards, from the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy to assist the city staff. These services and activities include a volunteer stewardship program (see below), scientific and historical research, advocacy, and other activities that promote the use, protection, and enhancement of the Preserve.
History.
In 1990, with the combined population of the nearby communities of Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Rio Verde and Carefree approaching 150,000, housing and commercial developments were beginning to encroach upon the McDowell Mountains. Local citizens who for years enjoyed unobstructed mountain views and unfettered recreation within the mountain range increasingly came to the realization that the mountains were unprotected.
On November 17, 1990, thirteen concerned preservationists and outdoor enthusiasts met at Scottsdale's Mustang Library to discuss preservation of the McDowell Mountains and adjacent Sonoran Desert lands. On January 21, 1991, the group incorporated as the McDowell Sonoran Land Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the McDowell Mountain area. Signers of the incorporation documents were Jane Rau and Karen Bertiger. The McDowell Sonoran Land Conservancy initially did business using the name McDowell Sonoran Land Trust (MSLT). In August 2005, it adopted a new dba name: McDowell Sonoran Conservancy.
The MSLT board quickly realized that a reliance on private donations would not provide effective funding for the purchase and preservation of sufficiently large parcels of land. The board decided to turn to the citizens of Scottsdale for support. In 1992, they approached the Scottsdale city council with a request to develop a preservation plan for the McDowell Mountains and surrounding Sonoran Desert lands. The council created a task force to study preservation the following year. During this same period, MSLT directors began leading informal educational hikes into the future Preserve and writing numerous articles for local periodicals in order to build support among influential citizens.
The initiatives of 1992 and 1993 bore fruit in 1994, when the city council, acting on task force recommendations, created a permanent McDowell Sonoran Preserve Commission (Preserve Commission), and endorsed a plan to acquire 25 square miles of land. Public support came the following year when 64% of Scottsdale's voters approved a 0.2% sales tax to fund land acquisition.
Land desired for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve was selected based on:
In 1998, the city's Preserve Commission recommended expanding the target size of the Preserve to 57 square miles. Mindful of public concern regarding maintenance expenses associated with a large preserve, the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy developed the concept of Preserve Stewardship, created a formal steward educational program, and graduated the first steward class. The stewardship concept as a partnership with city staff was purpose-built for the Scottsdale environment and remains a unique model among land trusts in the United States. Its value was particularly demonstrated in 2002 and 2005, when the Preserve was closed for weeks at a time due to fire danger, with stewards patrolling the Preserve perimeter and educating the public.
As Scottsdale continued to acquire private and state land for preservation, it became obvious that additional funds would be needed to complete the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. To that end, a city initiative was proposed and passed in 2004 to increase the sales tax by 0.15%, providing a total Preserve-dedicated tax of 0.35%. The passage of the increased tax was unusual at the time as the general attitude in the state favored tax reductions. Two bond issues supporting the creation of the Preserve were also passed, in 1996 and 1999, each with a voter approval exceeding 70%.
Acquisition of land for the proposed boundaries of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is within 4,000 acres of completion. Currently, over 500 specially-trained stewards support Preserve operations.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a permanently protected 30,000-acre sustainable Sonoran Desert habitat open for non-motorized trail use. The Preserve provides critical refuge for native plants and animals living near urban environments. The Preserve connects in the north with the three-million-acre Tonto National Forest and in the southeast with the 21,000 acre McDowell Mountain Regional Park, providing an uninterrupted wildlife corridor.
Geologically, the Preserve is diverse. The southern portion, consisting mainly of the McDowell Mountain range, is largely composed of erosion-resistant metamorphic rocks formed about 1.7 billion years ago. By contrast, the northeastern and southeastern corners of the McDowell Mountains are composed of granite. An unusual feature of the northern Preserve is the appearance of geologically young (15 to 25 million years old) volcanic deposits from the nearby Superstition Mountains. Humans have inhabited and used the lands within the Preserve for about 7,000 years. The Archaic people (5,000 BCE – 500 CE) and the Hohokam (100 CE – 1450 CE) established many seasonal and temporary sites.
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve currently offers approximately 120 miles of non-motorized, multi-use trails (hike/bike/horse) accessed from multiple trailheads. The Preserve's temperature ranges from 17 °F to 118 °F, with an average annual rainfall of 8.7 inches. Elevation ranges from 1,690 feet to 4,059 feet. The Preserve is open every day between sunrise and sunset. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Smoking, alcohol and fires are prohibited within the Preserve.
Public/private partnership.
The Preserve is maintained by a public-private partnership between Scottsdale and the Conservancy. Historically, Scottsdale took the lead on acquiring land for the Preserve and works with the Conservancy on stewardship and maintenance of the land.
The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy provides a number of services to Scottsdale for the benefit of the Preserve, particularly staff and volunteers to support Scottsdale in the work of protecting, promoting and managing the Preserve. Between 1998 and 2013, Conservancy-trained volunteers contributed more than 270,000 hours of services.
The relationship between Scottsdale and the Conservancy was formalized in December 2011 in an Agreement (Contract No. 2011-101-COS) regarding the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. In the Agreement, the Conservancy, as authorized by Scottsdale, agreed to provide staff and trained volunteers to assist Scottsdale in operations, maintenance, and outreach-related services and activities in or directly related to the Preserve. These services and activities include a comprehensive volunteer stewardship program (including patrol, maintenance, trailhead hosting, and education); facilitating scientific research; website and printing resources; and advertising, promotion, special events, and membership activities for the sole purpose of promoting the use, protection, and enhancement of the Preserve. In turn, Scottsdale agreed to provide on-site supervision, tools and materials, training or training design, authorization, fee reservations, direction and materials, reporting forms and permit formats, and use of the city's facilities.
On no less than an annual basis, Scottsdale and the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy meet to discuss existing Conservancy Preserve-related services and activities, and to jointly plan for the coming year. Conservancy staff prepares and presents a report to Scottsdale annually, setting forth its activities in the preceding year and its plan for the coming year.
Advocacy.
The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy obtains funding for its activities from individual gifts, foundation grants, donations from corporate partners, legacy gifts provided through wills and trusts, and gifts of land and stock. Partner Conservancy members and supporters logged almost 39,000 hours of volunteer labor in fiscal year 2013.
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy volunteer functions.
Within the Conservancy there are eight volunteer programs in which stewards can participate:
1. Citizen Science: Protecting the Preserve is an interdisciplinary challenge, balancing the threats with the opportunities that coexist at the boundaries separating the urban from the desert environments. Citizen-scientist stewards support monitoring and assessment of the natural and historic resources in the Preserve, and share this information through educational talks and programs.
2. Community Relations: Through pictures and words, volunteers deepen the personal connection between people and the Preserve. Those who connect to the land are more inclined to support community efforts to protect land resources. Community Relations volunteers convey the story of the Preserve to the public through a variety of programs, including a quarterly newsmagazine ("Mountain Lines"), community articles, photography, speaker's bureau and outreach at community events.
3. Construction and Maintenance: Volunteers maintain existing trails, help build new trails, conduct land restoration, maintain trailheads, remove non-native plants, and perform any other work that helps to maintain a healthy Preserve ecology and safe access for visitors to the Preserve.
4. Education: Steward education programs provide volunteers with continuing education opportunities, both in a classroom setting and online. Volunteers develop and teach courses on natural history, which include flora, fauna, geology, human history, and ethnobotany. Public education programs are also periodically offered.
5. Fundraising: Since the Conservancy is a non-profit 501(c)(3) entity, fundraising assists in funding operations and building long-term financial stability. Volunteers help to identify individuals and organizations that may wish to donate to help the Conservancy meet its financial obligations and so carry out its strategic goals.
6. Hike: Public-guided hikes by trained stewards ensure that Preserve visitors have a knowledgeable hike leader to take them to beautiful and interesting areas of the Preserve. The hike leaders often discuss information about the best hiking techniques, map reading, GPS technology, flora and fauna, safe desert hiking skills, and stewardship.
7. Nature Guides: Volunteers within Nature Guides provide opportunities for the community to learn about the value, significance and wonder of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, through interactive tours and trailside learning. These stewards foster a sense of ownership and stewardship in the community, as well as an appreciation of the natural and cultural resources of the Preserve.
8. Pathfinders: Volunteer Pathfinders serve as hosts at the various trailheads within the Preserve. They welcome visitors with information about the Preserve, including trail maps, ecology and conservation value. Pathfinders help each visitor have a safe and enjoyable experience.
9. Patrol: Patrol stewards monitor hundreds of miles of trails on foot, horseback or mountain bike. They assess trail conditions for both safety and sustainability and provide reports that help Scottsdale and Conservancy staff to properly manage the Preserve.
10. Volunteer support: This program plans events to recognize and celebrate the collective efforts of the steward community. The volunteer mentor program provides a liaison process to enable new stewards to learn from established stewards within the organization.
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Parsons Field Institute.
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Parsons Field Institute is the research center of the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. Its mission is to study the environment of the Preserve as well as the human history and human impacts. It does this by partnering with scientists (known as Principal Investigators or PIs) and actively involving volunteers in research as citizen scientists. Research results are used for long-term resource management, education, and to contribute to the broader scientific knowledge of natural areas.
Research in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve using this model started in 2008 when a group of volunteers recruited Brian Gootee of the Arizona Geological Survey (AZGS) to assist them with an informal investigation of the geology in a small area of the Preserve. This work culminated in the publication of two papers through AZGS in 2010, one of which was the first paper submitted with non-geologists as the principal authors.
An anonymous-donor contribution in 2009 and a three-year grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust in 2010 were used to formally establish MSFI and hire a staff leader. In 2013, the Citizen-Science program was initiated as a volunteer program of the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, led and managed by volunteers under staff supervision. The Citizen-Science program offers specialized training for volunteers interested in participating in MSFI research projects with the Principal Investigators. Citizen-Science program volunteers do field work, data entry, basic analysis, mapping, and other tasks under staff or scientific supervision.
MSFI has published reports summarizing its work-to-date developing baseline surveys of Preserve flora, fauna, and geology. Current projects focus on various aspects of human impact, including the effect of trail traffic on physical trail characteristics and nearby vegetation, the impact of development along the wildland–urban interface, and monitoring restoration sites to assess alternative approaches. All the baseline and human impact research data will be incorporated into an Ecological Resource Plan for the Preserve to assist Scottsdale in making resource management decisions.


Phu Soi Dao National Park

Phu Soi Dao National Park (), named after 2,120 m high Phu Soi Dao mountain, is a protected area at the southern end of the Luang Prabang Range in the Thai/Lao border area, on the Thai side of the range. It is located in
Nam Pat District of Uttaradit Province and Chat Trakan District of Phitsanulok Province. The park was established as Thailand's 109th national park in 2008.
Attractions.
Namtok Phu Soi Dao a 5-tiered waterfall and namtok Sai Thip a 7-tiered waterfall are some of the attractions of the park. The landscape is similar to the area on the Phu Kradueng plateau further southeast, with grasslands and pine trees such as "Pinus kesiya". "Betula alnoides", "Schima wallichii" and "Shorea siamensis" are among the other species of trees present in the forest. "Utricularia spinomarginata" and "Utricularia phusoidaoensis" are endemic plants on Phu Soi Dao.
The most highlighted thing here are "dok ngon nak" (ดอกหงอนนาค–"Murdannia gigantea") which will bloom all over the fields during rainy season (๋July–August), causing a beautiful purple scenery.
Topography.
The park is bordered by Laos PDR for a length of about and is up to wide at its widest point. Landscape is mostly covered by mountains and forests (85%) and some small plains (15%), the height ranges from to . Several rivers have their source within the park, including Pat and Kwae Noi rivers.
Climate.
The park is generally cool all year round. Average high temperature is , average lowest temparature is , average mean temperature is . Rainy season is from May to October, average rainfall is /year. Winter is from November to February and summer is from April to June.
History.
A survey was set up in November 1990, with an area of only . In 1992 the area was extended to . In 1993 Phu Soi Dao National Park was proposed, with the inclusion of Phu Soi Dao waterfall. In 2008 Phu Soi Dao National Park, including Nam Pat forest and Phu Soi Dao forest, with an area of was declared the 109th national park.
Flora.
The park is home to numerous forest types, such as evergreen, deciduous and dipterocarp forest.<br>
Evergreen forest include:
Deciduous forest include:
Dipterocarp forest include:
Plant species include:
Fauna.
Mammel sorts include:
Other animal sorts include:


Salawin Wildlife Sanctuary

The Salawin Wildlife Sanctuary () is located in Thailand near the border with Burma and includes the Thai section of the Salween River. Founded in 1978, it is an IUCN Category IV wildlife sanctuary, measuring in size.


Khao Phanom Bencha National Park

Khao Phanom Bencha National Park () is a national park in Krabi Province, Thailand. The park is named for Khao Phanom Bencha mountain and protects an area of virgin rainforest and rare wildlife.
Geography.
Khao Phanom Bencha is north of Krabi town and encompasses parts of Krabi, Khao Phanom and Ao Luek districts. The park's area is and reaches its highest point at the peak of Khao Phanom Bencha, part of a mountain range running north to south.
Attractions.
The park has numerous large waterfalls, including Huai To Falls, a waterfall of five cascades and a height of . Nearby Huai Sakhe Falls is a waterfall of three cascades.
Khao Pheung is a cave featuring stalactites and stalagmites. The Khao Phanom Bencha mountain peak is thickly forested and climbable on a multi-day trek.
Flora and fauna.
The park's forest includes such tree species as teak, takian, "Dipterocarpus alatus", "Lagerstroemia", "Magnolia champaca" and "Parkia speciosa". At lower elevations "Calamus" palms and bamboo are found.
Animal species include clouded leopard, Sumatran serow, tapir, black bear and mouse deer. Numerous monkey species reside within the park such as langur, lar gibbon and stump-tailed macaque.
Khao Phanom Bencha is home to over 200 bird species and is a significant bird-spotting area. Species include white-crowned and helmeted hornbill, white-rumped shama and argus pheasant. An extremely rare bird here is the endangered Gurney's pitta.


Morichales de Paz de Ariporo

The Morichales de Paz de Ariporo is a proposed national park in Casanare Department of Colombia. It was formerly referred to as the Humedales de Casanare. The area holds the largest extension of wetlands in eastern Colombia.
The park has many stands of Moriche palm ("Mauritia flexuosa") that exist throughout the wetlands.


Washakie Wilderness

The Washakie Wilderness is located in Shoshone National Forest in the U.S. state of Wyoming.
U.S. Wilderness Areas do not allow motorized or mechanized vehicles, including bicycles. Although camping and fishing are allowed with proper permit, no roads or buildings are constructed and there is also no logging or mining, in compliance with the 1964 Wilderness Act. Wilderness areas within National Forests and Bureau of Land Management areas also allow hunting in season.


Vistula River Gorge of Lesser Poland

The Lesser Poland Gorge of the Vistula (Polish: "Małopolski Przełom Wisły") is a geographical region located in central-eastern Poland, which administratively belongs to three Polish voivodeships – Lublin, Masovian, and Świętokrzyskie. The Gorge is for the most part made by the valley of the Vistula, with two Polish uplands on both sides of the river – Lesser Poland (or Małopolska) Upland to the west, and Lublin Upland to the east. The gorge is about 70 kilometers long, extending from the town of Zawichost in the south, to Puławy in the north. It is considerably narrow, only up to 3 kilometers wide. In some places, the banks of the Vistula valley are very steep, up to 70 meters above the water level.
The region comprises a densely populated agricultural land, with two main towns; historic Kazimierz Dolny, and Annopol. Other towns are Józefów, Bochotnica, Janowiec and Wilków. The Gorge is one of several protected areas designated in the Natura 2000 territory of the European Union's ecological network around the Vistula and Pilica rivers (out of the total of around 500 "Natura 2000" sites in Poland). They are listed as – "Natura 2000" PLB 14000, and "Natura 2000" PLH 060045.


Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), is one of India's national parks, is located in Kullu region in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The park was established in 1984 and is spread over an area of 1171 km2 at an altitude of between 1500 and 6000 m. The Great Himalayan National Park is a habitat to numerous flora and more than 375 fauna species, including approximately 31 mammals, 181 birds, 3 reptiles, 9 amphibians, 11 annelids, 17 mollusks and 127 insects. They are protected under the strict guidelines of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972; hence any sort of hunting is not permitted.
In June 2014, the Great Himalayan National Park was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The Unesco World Heritage Site Committee granted the status to the park under the criteria of "outstanding significance for biodiversity conservation".
Biogeography.
The GHNP is at the junction of world's two major biogeographic realms: the Indomalayan realm to the south and the Palearctic realm to the north. The temperate forest flora-fauna of GHNP represents the westernmost extension of the Sino-Japanese Region. The high altitude ecosystem of the Northwest Himalaya has common plant elements with the adjacent Western and Central Asiatic region. As a result of its 4,100 m elevation range the park has a diversity of zones with their representative flora and fauna, such as alpine, glacial, temperate, and subtropical forests.
These biogeographic elements are result of geological evolution of Himalaya which continues today from the action of plate tectonics and continental drift. Over 100 million years ago, the Indian sub-continent broke off from the large, southern landmass, Gondwanaland and moved north. It eventually slammed into the northern land mass, Laurasia, and formed the gigantic folded mountains of the Himalaya. Due to this union of Gondwanaland and Asiatic landmasses, exchange of flora and fauna was possible and this ultimately led to the unique biogeographical features in the region.
Timeline of creation.
It took twenty years from inception to inauguration for GHNP to be realized as part of the Indian national park system. The following is a brief timeline:
1980: Preliminary park survey of the watersheds of Tirthan, Sainj, and Jiwanal in Banjar area of Kullu district 1983: Continued park survey, the Banjar area of Kullu district.
1984: Notification by state of Himachal Pradesh of the intention to create the Great Himalayan National Park with buffer zone.
1987: First Management Plan of the Great Himalayan National Park.
1988: Settlement Proceedings and settling of rights of local communities
1992: The Himachal Wildlife Project re-assesses wildlife abundance, livestock grazing, and herb collection and reviewed the existing management plan.
1994: The Government of HP revised the Notification of intention to include the Sainj Wildlife Sanctuary and the upper Parvati watershed.
1994-1999: Conservation of Biodiversity Project (CoB), the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun conducts research to assist in the management of the park.
1999: Declaration of Award upon Completion of Settlement Proceedings. Monetary compensation for individuals who had rights of forest produce in the park area, including a package for providing alternative income generation activities to everybody living in the Eco-development Project Area or Ecozone. The GHNP becomes the latest and newest national park of India. The Conservation of Biodiversity (CoB) Project completed on 31 December 1999.
2014: World Heritage Natural Site status conferred on GHNP on 23 June in the proceedings of the 38th World Heritage Committee meeting in Doha, Qatar.
Biodiversity.
Fauna.
The Great Himalayan National Park is home to more than 375 faunal species. So far species of 31 mammals, 181 birds, 3 reptiles, 9 amphibians, 11 annelids, 17 mollusks and 127 insects belonging to six orders have been identified and documented. Most of the Himalayan fauna has been given protection under the high priority protection category of Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The state government of Himachal Pradesh has banned hunting in the state for more than ten years. A trek of 35 to 45 km in any of the park's valleys brings one into the high altitude habitat (3,500 m and above) of animals such as blue sheep, snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer. Best sightings can be made in autumn (September–November) as animals start their seasonal migration to lower altitudes.
Flora.
The GHNP also supports a great diversity of plant life, thanks to its wide altitude range and relatively undisturbed habitats. From the lofty pinesand spruces and the great, spreading horse chestnuts of the lower valleys, to the dense cushions and prostrate branches of the alpine herbs and junipers, the park presents an endless variety of vegetation. Although some areas have been modified by grazing, this is one of the few areas of the Western Himalayas where the forests and alpine meadows can be seen in something approaching their original state. The subalpine zone is richest in species, followed by the alpine and upper temperate zones.


Velia

Velia was the Roman name of an ancient city of Magna Graecia on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It was founded by Greeks from Phocaea as Hyele () around 538–535 BC. The name later changed to Ele and then Elea (; ) before it became known by its current Latin and Italian name during the Roman era. Its ruins are located in the Cilento region near the modern village Velia, which was named after the ancient city. The village is a "frazione" of the "comune" Ascea in the Province of Salerno, Campania, Italy.
The city was known for being the home of the philosophers Parmenides and Zeno of Elea, as well as the Eleatic school of which they were a part. The site of the acropolis of ancient Elea was once a promontory called Castello a Mare, meaning "castle on the sea" in Italian. It now lies inland and was renamed to Castellammare della Bruca in the Middle Ages.
Geography.
The town is situated close to the Tyrrhenian coast in a hill zone nearby Marina di Casalvelino and Marina di Ascea, on a road linking Agropoli to the southern Cilentan Coast. Its population is mainly located in the plain by the sea (surrounding the southern part of the ancient ruins) and in the hill zones of Enotria, Bosco and Scifro. Velia also had a railway station on the Naples-Salerno-Reggio Calabria line, closed at the end of the 1970s.
History.
According to Herodotus, in 545 BC Ionian Greeks fled Phocaea, in modern Turkey, which was being besieged by the Persians. After some wanderings (8 to 10 years) at sea, they stopped in Reggio Calabria, where they were probably joined by Xenophanes, who was at the time at Messina, and then moved north along the coast and founded the town of Hyele, later renamed Ele and then, eventually, Elea. The location is nearly at the same latitude as Phocaea.
Elea was not conquered by the Lucanians, but eventually joined Rome in 273 BC and was included in ancient Lucania. According to Book 6 of Virgil's "Aeneid", Velia is the place where the body of Palinurus washed ashore.
Ruins.
Remains of the city walls, with traces of one gate and several towers, of a total length of over three miles, still exist, and belong to three different periods, in all of which the crystalline limestone of the locality is used. Bricks were also employed in later times; their form is peculiar to this place, each having two rectangular channels on one side, and being about 1.5 inches square, with a thickness of nearly 4 inches They all bear Greek brick-stamps. There are some remains of cisterns on the site, and, various other traces of buildings.
Eleatics.
The Eleatics were a school of pre-Socratic philosophers. The group was founded in the early 5th century BC by Parmenides. Other members of the school included Zeno of Elea and Melissus of Samos. Xenophanes is sometimes included in the list, though there is some dispute over this.


Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance

Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI) are sites "of importance for conserving the components of biological diversity in the Mediterranean; contain ecosystems specific to the Mediterranean area or the habitats of endangered species; are of special interest at the scientific, aesthetic, cultural or educational levels".
Context.
The Protocols are part of a wider international effort aimed at protecting the Mediterranean Sea, "i.e." the MAP, a programme co-ordinated by UNEP the origins of which go back to the Barcelona Convention of 1976 for Protection against Pollution in the Mediterranean. Similar plans exist for other regional seas around the world. Treaties and protocols providing for the specific protection of certain sites in these regions have also been adopted.
The SPAMI List.
The 1995 Protocol provides for the establishment of a List of SPAMI. SPAMI may be created both within areas of national jurisdiction and on the high seas. The decision to include an area in the SPAMI List is taken by consensus by the contracting parties during their periodic meetings. The protection and management measures applying in the SPAMI are those prescribed by the States proposing them but all parties are to comply with such measures. The Ligurian Sea Cetacean Sanctuary is the largest of the SPAMI sites.
The RAC-SPA.
The Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA) was established by the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention in order to help the Mediterranean countries implement the 1995 Protocol. It is based in Tunis, as part of a host agreement signed in 1991 between Tunisia and UNEP.


Woraksan National Park

Woraksan National Park () is located in the provinces of Chungcheongbuk-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea. It was designated as the 17th national park in 1984. It is named after the mountain Woraksan. The park is home to 1,200 plant species, 17 mammal species, 67 bird species, 1,092 insect species, 10 amphibian species, 14 reptile species, 27 freshwater fish species, and 118 spider species. 16 of the animal species are endangered.


Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat

The Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat (Indonesian: "Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat", Javanese: ) is a palace complex in the city of Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta Special Region, Indonesia. It is the seat of the reigning Sultan of Yogyakarta and his family. The complex is a center of Javanese culture, and contains a museum displaying royal artifacts. It is guarded by the Yogyakarta Kraton Guards (Indonesian: "Prajurit Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat").
History.
The complex was built in 1755–1756 (AJ 1682) for Hamengkubuwono I, the first Sultan of Yogyakarta. It was one of the monarch's first acts after the signing of the Treaty of Giyanti, which recognized the creation of the Sultanate of Yogyakarta under the Dutch East India Company. A banyan forest, protected from flooding by its location between two rivers, was chosen as the site for the palace.
On 20 June 1812, Sir Stamford Raffles led a 1,200-strong British force to attack the walled royal city of Yogyakarta. Although they outnumbered the British, the Javanese were unprepared for the attack. Yogyakarta fell in one day, and the palace was sacked and burnt. The attack was the first of its kind on a Javanese court, and the Sultanate briefly became subject to British authority before the British government returned control of Indonesia to the Dutch. Most of the current palace was built by Sultan Hamengkubuwono VIII (who reigned from 1921 to 1939), and was rebuilt after earthquakes in 1876 and 2006.
Architecture.
The palace's chief architect was Sultan Hamengkubuwono I, who founded the Yogyakarta Sultanate. His architectural expertise was appreciated by the Dutch scientist Theodoor Gautier Thomas Pigeaud and Lucien Adam, who considered him a worthy successor of Pakubuwono II (founder of the Surakarta Sunanate). The palace layout, which followed the basic design of the old city of Yogyakarta, was completed in 1755-1756; another building was added by a later Sultan of Yogyakarta.
The complex consists of a courtyard covered with sand from the south coast, a main building and a secondary building. The buildings are separated by a wall with a "regol" in "semar tinandu" style. The palace door is made of thick teak. Behind (or in front of) a gate in Javanese architecture is usually an insulating wall ("Renteng" or "Baturono"), sometimes with a distinctive, traditional ornament.
The wooden buildings of the complex have a traditional Javanese architectural style, decorated with flora, fauna, or nature motifs. Foreign influences (Portuguese, Dutch, and Chinese) are also seen. The buildings are of "joglo" construction.
The trapezoidal "joglo" roof is usually covered with red or gray shingles, tiles, or zinc. It is supported by a central pillar ("soko guru") and secondary pillars. Pillars are usually dark green or black, with yellow, light-green, red or gold highlights. Other wooden building elements match the pillars in color.
For the stone pedestal ("Ompak"), the black color is combined with gold ornamentation. White dominates the walls of the building and the complex. The floor, usually made of white marble or patterned tiles, is higher than the sandy courtyard. Some buildings have a higher main floor. Other buildings have a square stone ("Selo Gilang") for the sultan's throne.
Each building is classified by use. The main-class building (used by the sultan) has more ornamentation than the lower-class buildings, which have simple ornamentation or none at all.
Symbolism.
A "kraton" is a palace. "Keraton" is the living quarters of the royal family. Tamarind and Spanish cherry trees line the road from Krapyak Hunting House to the palace, which runs from Tugu Yogyakarta to the palace.
Tugu Yogyakarta (the Gilig golong monument), on the north side of the old city, symbolizes "unification between the king ("golong") and the people ("gilig")" (Javanese: "manunggaling kawulo gusti"). It also symbolizes the final unity of the creator (Khalik) and his subjects. The Gate Donopratoro (gate to the Kedaton quarter) represents "a good person is someone who is generous and knows how to control his lust", and the two Dwarapala statues (Balabuta and Cinkarabala) represent good and evil. The palace's artifacts are believed to have the power to repulse evil.
Performances.
The palace hosts "gamelan" (music), Javanese dance, "macapat" (poetry), and "wayang" (shadow puppetry) performances.
Popular culture.
The Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat was the second Pit Stop in "The Amazing Race 19".


Hobart Nature District

The Hobart Nature District is located in the City of Hobart, Indiana and encompasses over 1,000 acres of scenic parks, wetlands and floodplains, winding rivers, peaceful lakes, open prairies, oak savannas, old-growth forests, and undulating ravines.
The name of the Hobart Nature District was officially established by resolution of the Common Council of the City of Hobart, Indiana on July 19, 2017, but the natural areas within the district have been in various states of accessibility and restoration for decades. The resolution by the City Council affirmed the phrase "Hobart Nature District" was the best way to refer to all of the areas contained within the Hobart Marsh Plan which was established by the city in 2013.
The concept behind the Hobart Marsh Plan, which contains the areas now referred to as the Hobart Nature District, has been to capitalize on the extensive areas of native prairie, wetlands and woodlands creating a unique attraction for passive recreation enabling visitors the opportunity to experience local flora and fauna. The Hobart Marsh Plan has sought to connect numerous conservation lands managed by various local partner organizations. It also builds upon the growing regional bike trail network with the potential to become an eco-tourism destination, providing access to many other natural and cultural attractions in the region.
While the phrasing "Hobart Nature District" only became official as of 2017, following the amendment of the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Hobart to include the Hobart Marsh Plan in 2013, conservation efforts and the early steps toward establishment of natural areas within the district date back to as early as 1989 when official support first began to formulate for the preservation of these special places. That initial support led to the establishment of the "Hobart Prairie Grove" that was added to the National Park System as part of a 1992 expansion of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (renamed the Indiana Dunes National Park in 2019).
History.
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2004
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2020s.
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Local partners.
Many local partners work together to protect, restore, and promote the natural areas within the Hobart Nature District. These partners work together to secure resources for restoration projects and recreation improvements.
Natural Area Features and Access.
The Hobart Nature District features 13 distinct natural areas within the boundaries of the district. A 14th distinct natural area within the boundaries of the Hobart Nature District was added in April 2021 with property adjacent to Robinson Lake Park that was acquired by Lake County Parks and Recreation.


Patrick Ching

Patrick Ching
(born  1963) is a Hawaiian conservationist and wildlife artist, ornithological illustrator, and author of children's books.
Early life.
Ching was born in Oahu. He received his alma mater from the Otis College of Art and Design where he trained to be an artist. In 1984 he moved to Kauai in order to do volunteer for the United States Fish and Wildlife Service as a wildlife ranger. This took him to remote areas of the Hawaiian islands where he worked a great deal with sharks, seals, turtles and other marine animals. He then became a ranger at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge.
As a painter.
A painter since age 16, Ching gained international recognition because of his painting's remarkable likeness to the photographs he took while in the field. His most notable works of art can be seen on Hawaii's first Wildlife Conservation Stamp featuring the Hawaiian state bird the Nene, a species of goose endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. and the Hawaiian Telcom Phone Book Cover featuring Haley's Comet.
In 2008, Ching painted the hundred foot mural for the Salt Lake Public Library. which was featured in national magazines including Wildlife Art News, Audubon, and Birders' World.
Works by Ching are included in the collections of Hawaii's Bishop Museum and the Smithsonian Museum in New York.
As an author.
Ching has written around twenty books, most of which are about wildlife and nature. In 1998 Ching started writing children's books.
Art Gallery.
In 1996, Patrick opened the Naturally Hawaiian Gallery from the ruins of an old gas station in the heart of Waimānalo, and in 2008, Patrick Ching Art Gallery opened in Princeville, Kauaʻi.
Publications.
Ching has written around twenty books, among them are:


Greenbrier River Watershed Association

The Greenbrier River Watershed Association is one of the oldest watershed associations in the state of West Virginia, currently on its 15th year of existence. It has supported the creation of other watershed associations throughout the state and maintains a policy of "upstream courtesy" and "downstream courtesy" with its neighbors.
Projects.
The GRWA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that partners with other environmental nonprofits, government organizations, and like-minded groups to promote the values of the watershed in the hopes that the public will understand its unique riparian resources and thus recognize its worth. The Board of the GRWA is composed of cavers, farmers, developers, teachers, and other diverse individuals that unite in their love for the Greenbrier. They work with schools and civic groups to teach classes, organize field trips, and support similar organizations that protect the watershed in a sensible and proactive manner.
Outreach.
Unlike the majority of the watersheds in West Virginia, the GRWA's webpage is centered around the watershed itself, not the organization. It survives on grants and public support (primarily membership donations), to assist the public with issues such as Nonpoint source pollution, Water Quality, Water Quantity, protection of forests to alleviate pollution, prevention of substandard and/or illegal developments, injection wells, using sinkholes and cave systems for trash disposal, leaking septic tanks, water sampling, straightpipes, and wastewater treatment plant issues. The Clean Water Act of 1972 has enabled the GRWA to help citizens seek legal, effective methods of improving their waters for the benefit of public health.
Riffles is the GRWA newsletter, and published on a quarterly basis. Submissions from members are strongly encouraged and nearly a third of its members are out of state. Riffles are the shallow, oxygen-rich rapids of a river, which is as full of diverse life as a coral reef but often taken for granted and overlooked.
Members may join on a family membership ($30), or single ($25) or youth ($10). Donations of any amount are accepted as they are a valuable source of in-kind match funding with state or federal assistance.
Geography.
The Greenbrier River Watershed Association currently resides in Lewisburg, West Virginia at 120 W. Washington Street. Their mailing address is PO BOX 1419 Lewisburg, WV 24901. The office serves the entirety of the Greenbrier River Watershed. A second watershed, Friends of the Lower Greenbrier River, split off from the GRWA to concentrate on riparian issues in the lower half of the watershed. Both are within the West Virginia Southern Basin, which drains to the New River at Hinton in Summers County. Their primary state assistance and consultation comes from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's Southern Basin Coordinator, Jennifer Dupree.
Pocahontas County: Birthplace of Rivers.
The Greenbrier River begins at Durbin in Pocahontas County, but the watershed is involved with the upper drainage portions above Durbin, which includes places like Blister Swamp. It flows through the center of Pocahontas County, "the Birthplace of Rivers." Pocahontas County is sparsely populated, due to the Monongahela National Forest. This legally designated National Forest supports a great deal of the clean water within the watershed, and water quality degrades once the river flows out of the Forest's territory and into the more populated Greenbrier County. The spring Great Greenbrier River Race in Marlinton and summer's Durbin Days in Durbin draws large crowds every year. Pocahontas County contains much of the Greenbrier River Trail, which is the longest Rail Trail in West Virginia. The first USGS flow gauge station for the watershed is in the town of Buckeye involving Swago Creek.
Greenbrier County: Land of Karst.
The eastern half of Greenbrier County where the watershed rests is one of the world's densest karst stratas in the world with, "The Great Savannah" where sinkholes average at 18 km2. Its water is threatened by development and ignorance of karst issues. Despite the fact that its sensitivity is a matter of record, many people claim ignorance of karst and the county government has no existing bond of commitment for its developers that would guarantee a building project will not be affected by the shifting caverns and sinkholes. The western side hosts the new Meadow River Watershed. Greenbrier County is known for its trout waters, farmland, rising development, historic 1812-and Civil War saltpetre caverns and tour caves: Lost World Caverns and Organ Cave, Inc. Many important Ice Age fossil discoveries have been found within the watershed here. Greenbrier County hosts the Riders of the Flood Outdoor Amphitheatre in Ronceverte, the State Fair of West Virginia and the Freshwater Folk Festival at the National Fish Hatchery at White Sulphur Springs, and the GRWA tries to keep its presence at both events for outreach.
Monroe County: Land of Sinks.
Monroe County is a rich, agriculturally blessed county with fine apple orchards, wineries, trout water, historic springs, farmland, and saltpetre (saltpeter)caves. Since settler times it has been called "the land of sinks" for its many sinkholes. One community is called Sinks Grove because of this terrain. It contains the Second Creek Watershed, which is maintained by Friends of THE Second Creek Watershed. The birthplace of American Paleontology began in the late 18th-century with the discovery of the "Megalonyx Jeffersonii" (Thomas Jefferson's Three-toed Sloth) in its Haynes Cave. Haynes Cave is believed to be approximately 2 to 5 million years old. Monroe County has the USGS station on its side of the town of Alderson, West Virginia, where the public gleans much useful data about temperature, pH, flow, and dissolved oxygen. Much work has been launched in efforts to study the karstic hydrology of this county. Recently the entire Second Creek Watershed was designated an historic watershed by the state of West Virginia.
Summers County: Confluence of Rivers.
Summers County is the least karstic of all the watershed counties, with only 6 karstic springs and rockledges outnumbering caves. Summers County is warm, with weather influenced by the New River and many vernal pools and streams feed the lower Greenbrier in the summer. Native American summer settlements grew crops along the long, flat floodplains in areas like Pence Springs. The last USGS station is in the town of Hilldale. The Greenbrier enters the Three Rivers Confluence at Hinton where the waters of the Bluestone River, the New River, and the Greenbrier River mix. Hinton hosts a Water Festival every year. Although the Greenbrier flows into the New River at Hinton, New River biota such as the lamprey cannot travel upstream because of Sandstone Falls, the 30th-largest waterfall in the world. This helps preserve the integrity of the Greenbrier's freshwater species. The National Park Service celebrates the role of the tributaries of the New River at the Sandstone Visitors Center in Sandstone, West Virginia.
Of Note.
The Greenbrier provides an estimated 30% of all the water in the New River.
The state's oldest Ginkgo Biloba tree is a 133-year-old specimen planted in Lewisburg's New River Community and Technical College campus.
Two of the three Historic Railroads in West Virginia are within the Greenbrier River Watershed: The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and the Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad. Unused railroad tracks have been restored into a 79-mile Greenbrier River Trail


Conservation in India

Conservation in India can be traced to the time of Ashoka, tracing to the Ashoka Pillar Edicts as one of the earliest conservation efforts in the world. Conservation generally refers to the act of carefully and efficiently using natural resources. Conservation efforts begun in India before 5 AD, as efforts are made to have a forest administration. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is the ministry responsible for implementation of environmental and forestry program in India, which include the management of national parks, conservation of flora and fauna of India, and pollution controls.
History.
Yajnavalkya Smriti, a historic Indian text on statecraft and jurisprudence, suggested to have been written before the 5th century AD, prohibited the cutting of trees and prescribed punishment for such acts. During Chandragupta's reign, there was a regular forest department led by a "Kupyadhyaksha" (superintendent) and "Vanpalas" (forest guards). Kautilya's Arthashastra says that they had a role of classifying the trees, plants and herbs and fixing their price; they imposed fines on those who fell trees without permission. It further mentions how forests were classified into three types: Reserved, those donated to Brahmins and public. Written in Mauryan period, it emphasised the need for forest administration. Ashoka went further, and his Pillar Edicts expressed his view about the welfare of environment and biodiversity.
Protected areas.
As of May 2004, the protected areas of India cover 156,700 km², roughly 4.95% of the total surface area. These areas are used for in situ conservation, which involves conservation of species in their natural habitat.
Water Conservation.
From the most dry regions to the wettest zones in the world, India has them all. Water is not just a natural resource but a political issue in most parts of the country. The Cauvery dispute between Karnataka-Tamil Nadu, Mahanadi dispute between Chhattisgarh-Orissa are a few examples of the tussle for water. The Tamil Nadu government's rainwater harvesting efforts civil society movements such as Environmentalist Foundation of India (E.F.I's) community based lake/pond conservation efforts are seen as efforts to conserve water in India.
Endangered species.
Some endangered species in the country were reintroduced via ex situ conservation. Ex-situ conservation is rearing or cultivating, including reintroducing, a plant or animal outside their natural habitat. The reintroduction of the Indian rhinoceros at the Dudhwa National Park was a form of ex-situ conservation; it was extinct in that area. Similarly the Gangetic gharial was reintroduced in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Forests.
Ecological issues are an integral and important part of environmental issues challenging India. Poor air quality, water pollution and garbage pollution – all affect the food and environment quality necessary for ecosystems.
India is a large and diverse country. Its land area includes regions with some of the world's highest rainfall to very dry deserts, coast line to alpine regions, river deltas to tropical islands. The variety and distribution of forest vegetation is large. India is one of the 12 mega regions of the world.
Indian forests types include tropical evergreens, tropical deciduous, swamps, mangroves, sub-tropical, montane, scrub, sub-alpine and alpine forests. These forests support a variety of ecosystems with diverse flora and fauna.
Until recently, India lacked an objective way to determine the quantity of forests it had, and the quality of forests it had.
Prior to the 1980s, India deployed a bureaucratic method to estimate forest coverage. A land was notified as covered under Indian Forest Act, and then officials deemed this land area as "recorded forest" even if it was devoid of vegetation. By this forest-in-name-only method, the total amount of recorded forest, per official Indian records, was . Any comparison of forest coverage number of a year before 1987 for India, to current forest coverage in India, is thus meaningless; it is just bureaucratic record keeping, with no relation to reality or meaningful comparison.
In the 1980s, space satellites were deployed for remote sensing of real forest cover. Standards were introduced to classify India's forests into the following categories:
The first satellite recorded forest coverage data for India became available in 1987. India and the United States cooperated in 2001, using Landsat MSS with spatial resolution of 80 metres, to get accurate Indian forest distribution data. India thereafter switched to digital image and advanced satellites with 23 metres resolution and software processing of images to get more refined data on forest quantity and forest quality. India now assesses its forest distribution data biennially. The 2007 forest census data thus obtained and published by the Government of India suggests the five states with largest area under forest cover as the following:
India hosts significant biodiversity; it is home to 7.6% of all mammalian, 12.6% of avian, 6.2% of reptilian, and 6.0% of flowering plant species.
In recent decades, human encroachment has posed a threat to India's wildlife; in response, a system of national parks and protected areas, first established in 1935, was substantially expanded. In 1972, India enacted the Wildlife Protection Act and Project Tiger to safeguard crucial habitat; further federal protections were promulgated in the 1980s. Along with over 500 wildlife sanctuaries, India now hosts 18 biosphere reserves, eleven of which are part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves; 27 wetlands are registered under the Ramsar Convention.
These laws did not have the effect they intended.
In 1985, India created the Ministry of Environment and Forests. This was followed by a National Forest Policy and the major government reforms of the early 1990s.
Over the last 20 years, India has reversed the deforestation trend. Specialists of the United Nations report India's forest as well as woodland cover has increased. A 2010 study by the Food and Agriculture Organisation ranks India amongst the 10 countries with the largest forest area coverage in the world (the other nine being Russian Federation, Brazil, Canada, United States of America, China, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Australia, Indonesia and Sudan). India is also one of the top 10 countries with the largest primary forest coverage in the world, according to this study.
From 1990 to 2000, FAO finds India was the fifth largest gainer in forest coverage in the world; whilst from 2000 to 2010, FAO considers India as the third largest gainer in forest coverage.
In 2003, India set up a National Forest Commission to review and assess India's policy and law, its effect on India's forests, its impact of local forest communities, and to make recommendations to achieve sustainable forest and ecological security in India. The report made over 300 recommendations including the following:
India's national forest policy expects to invest US$26.7 billion by 2020, to pursue nationwide afforestation coupled with forest conservation, with the goal of increasing India's forest cover from 20% to 33%.


Uvs Lake

Uvs Lake (; , Ubsu-Nur lake) is a highly saline lake in an endorheic basin - Uvs Nuur Basin in Mongolia with a small part in Russia. It is the largest lake in Mongolia by surface area, covering 3,350 km² at 759 m above sea level.
The northeastern tip of the lake is situated in the Tuva Republic of the Russian Federation. The largest settlement near the lake is Ulaangom. This shallow and very saline body of water is a remainder of a huge saline sea which covered a much larger area several thousand years ago.
Name.
The name Uvs Nuur (sometimes spelled Ubsa Nor or Ubsunur) derives from "subsen", a Turkic/Mongolian word referring to the bitter dregs left behind in the making of airag (Mongolian milk wine), and "nuur", the Mongolian word for lake. The name is a reference to the lake's salty, undrinkable water. In one Mongolian folk tale a character named Sartaktai, known for digging wondrous canals and setting courses for rivers tries to connect Uvs lake to another nearby lake by digging a canal between them. But when the water of Uvs lake refuses to flow, Sartaktai angrily declares "Be thy name Subsennor!" A name that is defined as "bad wine, dregs of the spirit that comes from the still..."
Geography.
Uvs Lake has a length of 84 km and a width of 79 km, with an average depth of 6 m. Its basin is separated from the rest of the Great Lakes Depression by the Khan Khökhii ridge; however, it is not a rift lake as some mistakenly think.
The main feeding rivers are the Baruunturuun, Nariin gol, and Tes (primary feed of the lake) from Khangai Mountains in the east, and the Kharkhiraa River and Sangil gol from the Altai Mountains in the west.
Ecology.
The very large catchment area with no exit results in highly saline water (18.8 ppt, one half as salty as the oceans), primarily due to sulphate and sodium ions.
The lake freezes over from October to May. In summer, it exhibits a temperature gradient from 25 °C at the surface to 19 °C at the bottom.
29 different species of fish are known from Uvs Lake, and one of them, the Potanini altai osman ("Oreoleuciscus potanini"),
is suitable for human consumption.
Protected sites.
All of the lake and many parts of its surroundings have been declared protected sites. The UNESCO is using the designation "Uvs Lake site" as an umbrella term to summarize twelve separate clusters of protected sites, each a representative of a major eastern Eurasian biome.
Lake Uvs Basin.
The Uvs Lake is the terminal basin for the Uvs Lake Basin, which covers an area of 70,000 km² and represents one of the best-preserved natural steppe landscapes of Eurasia. The border between Mongolia and Russia runs through the northern periphery of the basin. Here the world's most northern desert meets the world's most southern tundra zone. Apart from the Uvs Lake, the basin comprises several smaller lakes. As these lakes lie to the north of other inland seas of Central Asia, they are of key importance for waterfowl migration.
Since the basin spans the geoclimatic boundary between Siberia and Central Asia, temperatures may vary from −58 °C in winter to 47 °C in summer. Despite its harsh climate, the depression is home to 173 bird species and 41 mammal species, including the globally endangered snow leopard, argali, and Asiatic ibex. The population density is low here. The lack of industry and the reliance of the inhabitants on traditional ways such as nomadic pasturing have little impact on the landscape and allow the ecosystem to remain relatively pristine.
In 2003, the UNESCO listed the Uvs Lake Basin as a natural World Heritage Site. It was nominated as "one of the largest intact watersheds in Central Asia where 40,000 archeological sites can be found from historically famous nomadic tribes such as the Scythians, the Turks and the Huns." This transboundary patrimony is one of the largest sites inscribed in the World Heritage List to date.


Lake Burullus

Lake Burullus (; ) is a brackish water lake in the Nile Delta in Egypt, the name coming from Burullus town (, from Ancient Greek παράλιος, "coast, seaside" or ⲛⲓⲕⲉϫⲱⲟⲩ "Nikejow"). It is located in Kafr el-Sheikh Governorate east of Rosetta, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea in the north and agricultural land to the south.
History.
In the early Islamic period, the port of Burullus was situated near the mouth of the lake (the place where it was connected to the sea through a small opening). Burullus port functioned as one of the defensive frontier settlements of the Nile Delta coast. An island settlement within the lake called Nastaru lent its name to the lake as a whole. Canals connected the lake to the Rosetta branch of the Nile. At this time the lake was growing and expanding southwards as a result of changes in fluvial deposition and generalized substrate subsidence.
Geography.
The lake is separated from the sea by a strip of land approximately wide. It is connected to the Mediterranean by the Burullus outlet, a channel about wide and deep. There are approximately 50 islands in the lake with a total area of . The lake's north shore is formed primarily of salt marshes and mudflats, while the south is mainly reed beds. The dominant lake vegetation is Potamogeton.
Hydrology.
The lake receives drainage waters from surrounding agricultural land and fresh water from the Brembal Canal. It is considered to be a lake and wetlands site of International importance for birds under the Ramsar Convention. Agriculture drainage water accounts for 97% of the total inflow to the lake (3.9 billion m3 per year), followed by rain water (2%) and groundwater (1%). 16% of the lake's water evaporates and 84% flows to the sea.
Wildlife.
According to a Biodiversity Report of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency 33 species of fish, 23 species of reptiles, 112 species of birds, and 18 species of mammals live in and around the lake. Fish species declined from 52 recorded at the beginning of the 20th century, mostly due to the inflow of agricultural drainage into the lake resulting in lower salinity.


Royal Society for the Protection of Nature, Bhutan

The Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN) (Dzongkha: རྒྱལ་འཛིན་རང་བཞིན་སྲུང་སྐྱོབ་ཚོགས་སྡེ་; Wylie: "Rgyal-'dzin Rang-bzhin Srung-skyob Tshogs-sde"; Gyäzin Rangzhin Rungchop Tshogde) is Bhutan's first and only non-governmental organization nonprofit organization with nationwide operations.
Since its establishment in 1987, the RSPN has promoted environmental education and advocacy, conservation and sustainable livelihoods, research and emerging issues like climate change, water and solid waste. The Society was registered under the Companies Act of Bhutan until last quarter of 2009 without proper authority which regulated the non-profit organization, with a special clause on non-profit entity. With the establishment of Civil Society Authority of Bhutan, the Society is now registered Civil Society Organization Authority as one of the Public Benefit Organizations under Bhutanese law. The RSPN celebrated its Silver Jubilee on 24 October 2012.
Activities.
The RSPN is active in research and conservation of endangered species. RSPN has been working in Phobjika Valley, Wangdue Phodrang District, home to the endangered black-necked crane ("Grus nigricollis") for over two decades to conserve the black necked crane and at the same time to promote sustainable livelihoods of the people there. This valley contains wildlife corridors connecting Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park with other protected areas of Bhutan, however most of the area is not under official government protection. To meet the environmental and social needs, RSPN initiated projects to promote sustainable ecotourism, alternative energy, and gender and water, waste management, wetland conservation, organic farming, income generating options such as souvenir making and in the conservation of forest resources in close collaboration with the Department of Forest and Park Services.RSPN extended its program to Wamrong and Kangpara communities in Trashigang District and in Zhemgang District focused to community based natural resource management and sustainable livelihoods of the people.
Under the Environmental Education and Advocacy Program, the RSPN is a collaboration with the Ministry of Education established school based nature club in all the schools across the country. Nature clubs are active in creating environmental awareness in the school and in communities around. To support nature club program, RSPN developed and distributed a nature club activity manual and nature club management guide books. Over 1,000 teachers were trained to manage nature club activities in schools. In consultation with the Royal University of Bhutan, the RSPN introduced environmental studies modules in the teacher training colleges of Samtse and Paro. RSPN also extended its environmental education program to the monastic schools. Environmental education materials were developed and monks and nuns were trained to conduct conservation activities.


Mount Stogu

Mount Stogu () is a protected area (nature reserve IUCN category IV) situated in the administrative territory of Băile Olăneşti, in Vâlcea County within east Romania.
Description.
Mounth Stogu with an area of 10 ha was declared natural protected area by the "Law Number. 5 of March 6, 2000" and represents a mountainous area and with diversified landforms, with flora and fauna specific Southern Carpathians.
Flora and fauna.
Flora.
Vegetation of forest consists of: European beech ("Fagus sylvatica"), English oak ("Quercus robur"), European ash ("Fraxinus"), fir ("Abies"), Norway spruce ("Picea abies"), pine ("Pinus") and the species of shrubs.
Species of grass: lady's slipper ("Cypripedium calceolus"), ligularia ("Ligularia sibirica"), bellflower of mountain ("Campanula alpina"), yellow monkshood ("Aconitum antthora"), belladonna ("Atropa belladonna"), rustyback ("Asplenium ceterach"), windflower ("Anemone nemorosa"), yellow anemone ("Anemone ranunculoides"), common moonwort ("Botrychium lunaria"), ivy white ("Daphne blagayana"), crown vetch ("Coronilla varia").
Fauna.
Species of mammals: brown bear ("Ursus arctos"), deer ("Cervus elaphus"), roe deer ("Capreolus capreolus"), gray wolf ("Canis lupus"), wild boar ("Sus scrofa"), lynx ("lynx lynx"), fox ("vulpes vulpes"), pine marten ("Martes martes"), squirrel ("Sciurus carolinensis"), alpine shrew ("Sorex alpinus"), brown long-eared bat ("Plecotus auritus"), lesser mouse-eared bat ("Myotis blythii"), barbastelle ("Barbastella barbastellus");
Species of birds: western capercaillie ("Tetrao urogallus"), rock bunting ("Emberiza cia"), white-crowned wheatear ("Oenanthe leucopyga"), lesser spotted eagle ("Aquila pomarina"), wallcreeper ("Tichodroma muraria"), hoopoe ("Upupa epops").


Annandale Water

Annandale Water is a loch in Annandale, Dumfries and Galloway, in the south west of Scotland. It is part of Annandale Water service station at Junction 16 of the A74(M), close to Johnstonebridge, Dinwoodie and Newton Wamphray, and halfway between Moffat and Lockerbie.
Before the opening of the Motorway service station, the old A74 road was adjacent to the loch and farmland. The services were opened at Easter 1995, and the lake and nature trail are a valuable amenity for motorists, walkers and others.
SEPA, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, regularly monitors the water quality and other factors.
Wildfowl populate the loch in large numbers, including mute swans and geese, and mallards.


List of rare flora of the Esperance Plains region

This is a list of endangered flora of the Esperance Plains region, a biogeographic region in southern Western Australia. It includes all taxa that occur in the region, and that have been classified as "R: Declared Rare Flora - Extant Taxa" or "X: Declared Rare Flora - Presumed Extinct Taxa" under the Department of Environment and Conservation's Declared Rare and Priority Flora List, and are hence gazetted as endangered extant flora under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950.
There are 72 endangered taxa. "Acacia prismifolia" is presumed extinct. The other 71 are believed extant:


Tat Ton National Park

Tat Ton National Park () is a national park in Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand. The park is in the Laen Kha mountain range. It features waterfalls and mountain highland scenery.
Geography.
Tat Ton National Park is north of Chaiyaphum town in Mueang Chaiyaphum District. The park's area is .
The park encompasses three peaks of the Laen Kha mountains: Phu Kaset, Phu Dee, and Phu Youk.
History.
On 31 December 1980, Tat Ton was designated Thailand's 23rd national park.
Attractions.
The park's most popular attraction is Tat Ton waterfall, high but expanding to width during the rainy season months from May to October. Other waterfalls in the park include Tat Fa, Pha Lang and Pha Song Chan.
Flora and fauna.
The park's forests are "Dipterocarpus" (including "Dipterocarpus tuberculatus" and "Dipterocarpus obtusifolius") and dry evergreen. Other tree species include "Shorea obtusa", "Shorea siamensis" and "Pterocarpus macrocarpus".
Animal species include barking deer, wild pig, mongoose and Siamese hare.


Comana, Giurgiu

Comana is a commune in Giurgiu County, Muntenia, Romania. It is composed of five villages: Comana, Vlad Țepeș, Budeni, Falaștoaca and Grădiștea. The commune is approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) south of Bucharest.
Comana Monastery is located in the commune, as is Comana Nature Park, the largest protected area in southern Romania.
On the night of 6 to 7 of May 1944 a British bomber crash-landed at Comana. The aircrew were killed.


Los Arrayanes National Park

Los Arrayanes National Park () is a national park of Argentina with an area of . It covers the Quetrihué Peninsula on the shore of the Nahuel Huapi Lake in the province of Neuquén, from Villa la Angostura.
Even though arrayán trees "(Luma apiculata)" can be seen on the way to the end of the peninsula, the forest of 300-year-old arrayanes covers of the southern point, with individuals of over 600 years. The forest can be reached by boat from different points of the Nahuel Huapi lake, or a path from the beginning of the park at the port of Villa La Angostura. This path, full of ups and downs, is also popularly done by mountain bike.
There are a few pudú and huemul deer, guanacos, monitos de monte, and small foxes. Among the birds, condors, eagles, hawks, and woodpeckers can be found here.
Even though it was already part of the Nahuel Huapi National Park, Los Arrayanes was created in 1971 to protect its forest of rare arrayán trees. To protect the soil and the roots of these fragile trees, a wooden path has been made for the tourist to enjoy the view of the cinnamon-coloured trees.
Climate.
The park has a cold, humid climate. Mean temperatures range from in winter to in summer. On average, the park receives of rainfall per year, most of which falls during winter. Snowfall occurs between July to September.


Rio Abiseo National Park

The Rio Abiseo National Park () is located in the San Martín department of Peru. UNESCO pronounced it as Natural and Cultural Heritage of Humanity (World Heritage Site) in 1990. The park is home to many species of flora and fauna, as well as the location of over 30 pre-Columbian archaeological sites. Since 1986, the park has not been open to tourism due to the fragile nature of both the natural and archaeological environment.
Geography and climate.
Located in the San Martín Region of Peru between the Marañón and Huallaga rivers, the park has an area of approximately 2,745.2 square kilometres. The park covers 70% of the Abiseo river basin. Elevations reach as high as 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) above sea level and as low as 350 m (1,150 ft).
The park protects three distinct ecoregions: Ucayali moist forests at lower elevations, Peruvian Yungas at middle elevations, and Cordillera Central páramo at the highest elevations.
There are at least seven climate zones in the park, including montane forest, tropical alpine forest, montane rainforest, high Andean grasslands (puna), and dry forest. Rainfall ranges from 20 to per annum. The montane cloud forest, composing most of the park area, is a high-altitude rainforest with short trees, moss and lichen. This ecosystem occurs above the altitude of about 2,300 meters (7,550 ft). High humidity is constant and rain falls throughout the year, particularly at the higher elevations. The soil is acidic.
Wildlife.
The yellow-tailed woolly monkey, "Oreonax flavicauda", previously thought to be extinct, is known to live in the park and appears to be endemic to the region. It was mostly due to this monkey's critically endangered status that the area gained national park status and was placed on the list of World Heritage Sites in 1983.
Other fauna in the park includes:
There are 980 known species of plants documented in the highlands of the park, 13 of which are endemic, and 5000 species of plants in the area of the Rio Abiseo.
Archaeology.
The most famous archaeological site in the Rio Abiseo park is Gran Pajatén, a ruined settlement atop a forested ridge overlooking the Montecristo River canyon. Nearby are the ruins of Los Pinchudos a series of cliff tombs discovered by Pataz villagers in the early 1970s. Gran Pajatén, Los Pinchudos and other archaeological remains identified in the park are usually attributed to the Chachapoyas culture. The most extensive archaeological work done in Rio Abiseo Park was led by the University of Colorado during the mid-1980s.


Manglot National Park

Manglot National Park or Manglot Wildlife Park is national park established in 1990 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan; the park is provide a natural sanctuary for wildlife. The area of the park is spread over on 1,756 acres including hilltops and plain area near the Indus River in Nizampur, Nowshera.
Flora.
The flora of the Manglot Wildlife Park include scrub forest primarily consisting of the olive trees. Acacia modesta, zizyphus nummelaria, olea cuspidate, deodonia viscose and monothica boxifolia are the predominantly Vegetation of this park.
Fauna.
Animals.
The animals includes the Chinkara, hog deer, common leopard, wolf, wild boar, jackal, porcupine and hare.
Reptiles.
Including different sort of snakes and wild lizards are present in the park.
Birds.
Including Chukar, three varieties of partridges, rock pigeon, dove and several sparrows from different species.


Manoj Gogoi

Manoj Gogoi (Assamese: মনোজ গগৈ) is an Indian wildlife conservationist and wildlife rehabilitationist from Assam. He has rescued over 5000 Animals in Kaziranga National Park, a national park in the Golaghat, Karbi Anglong and Nagaon districts of the state of Assam, India. He is widely known for saving desperate animals from the annual Assam floods.
Early life & education.
Gogoi was born in Bochagaon village of Kaziranga to Junaram and Rupa Gogoi on 4 January 1975. He completed his high school leaving certificate examination from Kohora National Park High School in the year 1992. He dropped out of higher secondary school in order to pursue his passion. During initial days, he started working as a gypsy driver-cum-tourist guide ferrying tourists inside the Kaziranga National Park.
Personal life.
He is married to Kashmiri Saikia Gogoi. He tied the knot with Kashmiri in 2005.
Wildlife conservation works.
Gogoi is a keen bird watcher and a naturalist. He grew up in the lap of nature teeming with various birds, rhinoceros, leopards, and snakes, even venomous ones. After working as a gypsy driver-cum-tourist guide ferrying tourists till 2013, Gogoi decided to become a full-fledged environmentalist after a chance meeting with Kedar Gore, director of Corbett Foundation.
Gogoi was a part of a television documentary filmed by wildlife film maker Vijay Bedi, which was aired on Animal Planet and Discovery Channel. The Corbett Foundation awarded him with the title ‘Wildlife Warrior’ in 2014.
Award.
Gogoi receives "India Star Passion Award 2019" for his social service (environment).


Kadoorie Conservation China

Kadoorie Conservation China (KCC) is a department under Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, which aims to minimize the loss of biodiversity and promote sustainability in China.
History.
The department was first known as the South China Biodiversity Team (SCBT), which was set up in 1998 in response to the urgent threats faced by China's biodiversity particularly in the south. In 2003, it expanded its focus from biodiversity conservation to include promotion of sustainable agriculture and sustainable living, and was restructured to form the China Programme (CP). In 2011, it was again renamed to become Kadoorie Conservation China. The first ten years of the programme were engaged primarily in channelling reliable information about biodiversity and its threats; providing communication and cohesion within the regional conservation community; boosting the ecological capacity of conservation scientists and managers; and initiating conservation interventions, including those that brought benefits to communities around nature reserves.
Projects.
Yinggeling Nature Reserve, Hainan.
Yinggeling National Nature Reserve (YGL) sits deep in the interior mountains of Hainan Island, and was never properly studied by scientists before KCC conducted a pilot survey of the area in 2003, when team members were amazed by the extent of primary rainforest and rich biodiversity. In 2005, the Provincial Forestry Department and KCC led a 3-month expedition to study the area's biodiversity value. The team of over 60 specialists discovered a wealth of exciting biodiversity, including species new to science such as the Yinggeling tree frog ("Rhacophorus yinggelingensis"), new records for China such as the tree "Trigonobalanus verticillata", and over 160 new records for Hainan such as the tree "Bretschneidera sinensis" and pygmy wren-babbler ("Pnoepyga pusilla"). These findings underlined the irreplaceable conservation importance of YGL. However, like many other forested areas, the biodiversity value of YGL was slowly being degraded, by illegal activities such as poaching and logging. To preserve this unique biodiversity asset, KCC has supported the Hainan Provincial Forestry Department to develop YGL into a world-class nature reserve, even assigning a conservation biologist to assist in reserve management since 2006. In a span of few years YGL has accomplished some achievements in reserve management, research & monitoring, and community-based conservation.
Hainan Exianling Limestone Ecosystem.
Since 2004, KCC has been working with partners to study Hainan's limestone forest and its conservation value; researchers supported by KCC found pristine rainforest and uncovered a lot of new species and new China records in this specialised ecosystem. In 2006, KCC and Hainan Provincial Forestry Department coorganized the workshop 'Hainan Limestone Habitats and their Biodiversity' and since 2009 KCC has sponsored the construction of a reserve station, provided capacity building to the local wardens, improved their patrolling effectiveness and provided field equipment.
Hainan gibbon.
In 2003, KCC was invited by the local authorities to take an active role in saving the Hainan gibbon ("Nomascus hainanus"). The first comprehensive population survey, as well as a conservation workshop for the Hainan gibbon were launched. During the survey and workshop, the existence of only 13 individuals in two groups was confirmed. In a hope to save the species from extinction, together with Bawangling National Nature Reserve, KCC implemented a series of in-situ conservation actions, including improvement of patrolling efficiency, establishment of the gibbon monitoring team, habitat enhancement of lowland habitat, in-depth scientific research, and educational activities. The gibbon population has increased to 3 groups of at least 24 individuals in less than a decade.
Eastern black crested gibbon.
In 2006, the eastern black crested gibbon ("Nomascus nasutus") was rediscovered in China by members of KCC after it was thought to be extinct in the country for years.
Oriental pied hornbill of Guangxi.
KCC collaborated with Xidamingshan Nature Reserve and other partners to protect the Oriental pied hornbill ("Anthracoceros albirostris") since July 2009. All-round conservation actions have been carried out, including scientific study, education and staff capacity building.
Publications.
Living Forests.
"Living Forests" was a magazine published by KFBG/KCC from 2000 to 2010, to serve the community of conservationists active in South China. From the sixth issue onwards each issue had a particular theme, namely: (6) Community Power in Southwest China; (7) Holding On to Hainan’s Forests; (8) Keeping South China’s Ecosystems Intact; (9) Benign Harvests: Bringing Agriculture in Line with Biodiversity Conservation; (10) What is Environmental Education? (11) Reforesting South China: Beyond Planting Trees; (12) Roads Least Travelled: Ecotourism and Development in South China; (13) Knowledge to Practice: How can Science be Applied to Conservation Policy and Management?; (14) Countdown 2010: Are We Winning the Battle for Biodiversity?); (15) Full Table, Empty Forest: Can the Wildlife Trade be Controlled?; (16) The Challenge of the Century: Building Resilience to Peak Oil and Climate Change.
Sustaining the Pulse.
"Sustaining the Pulse: Managing for Biodiversity Conservation in South China's Forest Nature Reserve" provides nature-reserve managers, especially those in the South China region, with the motivation, concepts, guidance and examples to help them in their vital work.


Rifle Butts Quarry

Rifle Butts Quarry is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England. The particular interest of this reserve is the geological feature exposed on the quarry face. The site is owned by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. The exposure which is identified as being of national importance in the Geological Conservation Review shows a Cretaceous unconformity, where sediments from the Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous periods were eroded away. It shows a section of Red Chalk and White Chalk overlying Lias. A shelter has been constructed to protect the quarry face from erosion. The reserve is situated on the western edge of the Yorkshire Wolds, one mile south-east of Goodmanham and two miles from Market Weighton. The site, which was designated a SSSI in 1952, has over 150 plants recorded. It still displays some characteristic chalk species, including cowslip, marjoram, field scabious and wild basil. Breeding birds include willow warbler and yellowhammer.