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KKK_8. Participatory Small Grant Action Plan (PSGAP)

8.1 Introduction

The small grant packages (section 8.4) provide a broad guidance for the Service Providers and the potential Grantees. As such, they are intended to give a broad description of the intervention which can be financed by the SGP. Each SG package is intended to address specific issues identified during the development of the PSGAP through field surveys, interviews, focus groups, broad consultations with stakeholders and secondary information.

The description of the interventions provides a broad direction to potential grant recipients – and it is important that they are not overly prescriptive, thereby, giving an opportunity to potential grantees with experience and knowledge from implementing similar interventions in Viet Nam the opportunity to use this experience in developing a specific grant proposal.

8.2 Analysis and Identification of Priority Interventions to be Supported by the SGP

Based on this analysis SGP packages have been prioritized against the following criteria:

  1. Contribution to biodiversity conservation,
  2. Improving the living conditions of people
  3. Capacity and support of the communities, NPs, NGOs and other institution,
  4. Gender and job creation for young people,
  5. Contribution to resiliency of communities (especially towards climate change),
  6. Cost efficiency,
  7. Achievable results in the short and medium term.

For further distinction, a scaled evaluation system (1-5) is introduced to prioritize the interventions, in which the numbers 1 = the lowest priority, 2 = less priority, 3 = moderate priority, 4 = high priority and 5 = highest priority. “Category 5 Highest Priority” in this system stands for the express recommendation to be included in the proposed intervention, followed by “Category 4 High priority” in the next planned call for grant proposals. Annex 17 shows the listed interventions and their scoring scale. Intervention which scores more than 27 has the highest priority, 21 – 26 is high priority, 16 – 25 is moderate priority, 10 -15 is less priority and score which is below 10 is considered lowest priority.

8.3 Focal Areas

The PMM identified a number of broad focal areas for the implementation of the small grants. The field surveys and the ESMF have further refined these focal areas.

8.3.1 Thematic Focal Areas

The PMM identified eight thematic areas. These have been further defined through field survey and consultations. Some of the thematic focal areas have been screened out during the field surveys and consultations with stakeholders or through a risk analysis within the framework of the ESMF process. See section 1.4.

8.3.2 Geographic Focal Areas

The SGP will have three separate geographical focal areas in Kon Ka Kinh AHP:

8.3.3 Community Focal Areas

The PSGAP has prioritised communities using a number of criteria such as: poverty, % of households belonging to an ethnic minority, proximity to AHP boundary, accessibility (for ease of M&E purposes and support), level of conflicts with the AHP authority, absence of governance/ land disputes, etc. The template for prioritizing communes and villages is provided in Annex 16.

8.3.4 Recommended approach to small grants

Based on the analysis of the survey, interviews and SFMP, it is important to use the SGs strategically and sequentially. Raising awareness and subsequently capacities is a necessary prerequisite before proceeding with other measures. For instance, capacities on biodiversity database, GIS and information management are necessary to support species and habitat surveys, developing species recovery plans and assisting local communities to develop effective community-based forest and biodiversity management.

Study tours are very effective, enabling participants to directly experience and conceptualise issues and thus internalise and adapt this experience. However, study tours need to be representative of stakeholders to maximise the exposure across a range of stakeholders and it needs to be well-facilitated to provide the interpretation and contextualise the lessons and experience.

8.3.5 Black Listed Activities

The activities listed below are not allowed using a SG.

Activity Field Single Activities
Planning exercises Activities already budgeted for in another international donor-funded projectEIA or mitigation measures for major development projectsRural development activities
Conservation management Introduction of non-native and non-endemic species into protected areas
Park and Wildlife management equipment Major equipment such as vehicles, generators, air conditioners, furniture, furnishings. Weapons and ammunition
Infrastructure Large park infrastructure (roads; buildings; etc.)
Capacity building for AHP staff Fees for higher education
Engagement of local stakeholders Displacement or re-settlement of people/ communities (incl. related planning activities)Any measures that allow contractors to commence works prior to acceptance by the Programme’s Code of ConductActions which discriminate against individuals or groups of people on grounds of gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or lack of them, or their ethnic origin
Law enforcement Guard patrol posts / watch towerBoat engines Focused investment in forest protection measures.Planning and implementing anti-hunting patrols (see above)Gathering of baseline data on threats, resource use and biodiversity in sites where this is seriously needed in order to develop recommendations for managementJoint patrols with local community membersSmall items of equipment (e.g. GPS units, binoculars, digital cameras)Provision of radio communications and related patrolling equipmentEstablishment of ecological/threats-based monitoring systemsCommunity-based systems for monitoring Community based protection contractDSA for patrol staff.Overtime for weekend patrols
Community livelihood development Use of agrochemicalsProduction that alters natural forest ecosystems (e.g. cardamom production in sensitive/protected areasActivity areas experience competing claims and conflict, including any such concern related to resource and land distribution
Tourism Tourism development which is incompatible with AHP valuesAcademic study and overseas study tours
Surveys and research Activities that involve modification to natural habitat, other than habitat management for conservation purposes
Salaries and allowances Basic staff salaries and office running costs, including fuel and vehicle maintenanceAttending government meetingsTravel costs which are not directly part of a project Conference travel Regular staff salaries (overheads) Topping ups for park administration, applicants or support groups
Miscellaneous Activities beyond the mandate of AHP management authoritiesAny measures that disturb, or harm, built heritage graves, religious propertiesAny interventions that destroy, damage, excavate, alter, deface or otherwise disturb any archaeological site or materialsAny intervention without assessing potential impacts to the community’s health and safety during establishment and operationStoring cement, sand, excavated material without cover sheets or sheltersClearing vegetation cover that is not requiredBurning sites and clearance debris (trees, undergrowth) or construction waste materialsAlcohol, tobacco and any illegal substance

8.4 Small Grant Packages

8.4.1 Highest Priority General Park Management Interventions (A)

A-1/ Capacity building of AHP management in grant proposal identification, writing and management

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months).

Rationale

AHP financing is a significant constraint to achieving the aims and objectives of the AHP programme. AHP financing will depend upon a mix of funding sources. The mix of funding streams should be determined in a Financial Plan. The capacity to access these sources of financing can significantly improve the status and management effectiveness of the AHP. KKKNP has already developed partnerships with international organisations. However, these partnerships need to be expanded and carefully managed. Donors need to be confident in the management of their investments, and the beneficiaries need to ensure that they remain in control of the overall objectives.

Background:

Global conservation funds are available from a number of different sources (donor, private, Trusts, etc.), particularly for areas of high biodiversity conservation value. A number of these NGOs (including international organisations) have already been involved in supporting KKKNP. However, funding is largely dependent upon the AHPs ability to identify management issues and match these to sources of financing. The AHP needs to be proactive in identifying funding sources and packaging management objectives into fundable projects which clearly align AHP and donor objectives. This requires skills in proposal writing and grant management as well as developing and maintaining strong partnership relations with funding organisations. The AHP needs to build these skills, and the necessary long-term partnerships, within its existing human resources and develop it’s grant management capacities within a relevant department. Therefore, SG funding should be made available for the AHP to train a small number of senior staff in partnership relations management. This would include identifying and tracking sources of financing, proposal writing, grant management, monitoring and evaluation, reporting and maintaining visibility and partnerships with donors.

An economy of scale should be considered by pooling the AHP training with technical mentoring to tailor the needs for the individual AHPs. The provider would be expected to mentor each AHP through at least one grant application.

Objective: Sustainable and diversified AHP financing sources. Key Activities: Identification of AHP personal and institutional arrangementsTraining in:Identification of sustainable financing sources for the AHPConservation financing & financial planning and managementProposal writingGrant managementProject managementM&EReportingPartnership managementThe facilitator should mentor the trainees in at least one grant application Expected Outcomes: Specific items in the management plan costed and funded by external financing mechanismsMinimum one completed grant application is submitted to the identified financial source / donor Indicators: Number of grant/project applications successfully completedNumber of new and funding streamsGross sum of finance obtained from new funding sources Beneficiaries: KKKNP management  

Remarks:

8.4.2 Highest Priority Wildlife Research and Biodiversity Monitoring (A)

A-2/ Strengthening the capacities of survey, monitoring and reporting

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Building a biodiversity information system is essential for NPs in Vietnam. It will facilitate the conservation management of NPs in creating an opportunity to establish knowledge networks that allow the implementation of a collaboration framework in which scientists and the responsible authorities can combine efforts to provide a strategic biodiversity monitoring system. It also allows the improvement of flexible data interchange between AHPs and relevant stakeholders. In addition, the mapping and data management are essential for the effective management of the AHP. The ability to handle large data sets, present data to stakeholders and analyse multiple variables, identify correlations and design effective management interventions requires a broad in-house skill in data management and GIS. This capacity is cross-cutting and will support the M&E and analysis for other SGP interventions. With climate change and other anthropomorphic pressures on the AHP it is important to use sophisticated mapping techniques to document and understand changes taking place at the ecosystem level. Data acquisition and management is critical to underpin sound management. The ability to collect, analyse, store and distribute data to support decision-making for all aspects of buffer and core zone management is evident. Accurate and well-presented data will reduce ambiguities and conflicts and create a transparent framework to support participation. The efficiencies can be achieved by having a central institution as a service provider for the hardware, software, licenses and technical expertise serving all AHPs. At the site level, the capacity for technical understanding of the tools and equipment which is necessary for data collection should be enhanced. Training shall include the design and operational procedures which are necessary for robust and accurate data collection.

Therefore, SG could be an opportunity for KKKNP in upgrading a systematic biodiversity information system including collection of biodiversity data as well as strengthening the skills of park staff in using data collection technology (drones, camera traps, GPS, SMART tools, etc.) and skills of data management (using open source GIS) at AHP level.

Background:

A key objective of the SGP II is to build AHP staff capacities (especially the Forest Protection Department) in the areas or planning and monitoring. The AHP management does not have the facilities and capacity to collect process and manage large geo-referenced data sets or present these to stakeholders and decision-makers to inform management. KKKNP presents the management with significant multi-use and zone-specific management challenges which will be best addressed through building this capacity within the KKKNP management. A database system such as GIS to enable better planning and monitoring of its biodiversity if to be established, would need to consider the park’s financial and human resource capacity, as this system will be expensive. KKKNP should consider teaming with BBNP, HLNP and CMRNP or other AHPs/NPs in Vietnam to pool resources to develop a centre for GIS support in an academic institution. This partnership should offer economies of scale and value for money by sharing expensive hardware, software and licenses within a single institution. This partnership should reduce the costs of training and human resources by avoiding the need to duplicate expertise, equipment and licenses in each NP by establishing a centre for GIS support to AHPs / NPs that are in partnerships. At the park level there will be a requirement for field equipment and training necessary for survey work and other data collection needs. An institution capable of analysing the data, managing data and presenting it for use in management planning should be identified and partnered with. Lastly, at the AHP level, the capacity to use the processed data in management planning decision-making needs to be developed.

To the fill the gaps of biodiversity data managed by the park especially the lesser studied groups and of risks species, special attention should also be given to establishing linkages with academic institutions and other organisations with specialist expertise including developing agreements to ensure sustainability. Lesser studied and of risks groups should be prioritized and all survey work should provide conservation management recommendations, assessment of road construction on biodiversity including habitat fragmentation and mitigation measures. The results of this can be used, amongst other things, to strengthen the SFMP.

Objective: Wildlife and biodiversity collection, monitoring upon the existing standards in biodiversity conservation and forestryAHP management is equipped and trained in GIS, remote sensing, IT, modern devices and data management.To strengthen the coordination and cooperation regarding the biodiversity data management and sharing between AHPs and relevant stakeholders i.e. public research institutions   Key Activities: Design survey and study, identify gaps Update the existing biodiversity data including identify groups which are at risk, lesser studied; Being trained on the methods of survey, monitoring, inventory of biodiversity, data collection, producing and using existing database system (such as GBIF, NBDS, FORMIS…)Mapping: Survey, design and develop monitoring program and protocolsDevelop biodiversity monitoring plans and system for the park Assess the training needs (including the appropriate tools and equipment biodiversity data management & monitoring Identification of academic partner institution and establish partnershipDesign training module, conduct trainings in manage and utilize the system to KKKNP Develop material for publication, outreach & awarenessProcurement of identified tools of equipmentSet up equipment and hand over to beneficiaries Expected Outcomes: Biodiversity data (including lesser studied group) of KKKNP is updated Improved capacities of park staff in particular Forest Protection Department in biodiversity management and monitoringImproved capacities of park staff applying and using modern technology (drones/ camera traps etc.) for data collection and monitoringEstablish a framework to promote knowledge exchange between HLNP to research/ scientific institutesStrengthen KKKNP research collaboration with stakeholders.Forest and biodiversity management is improved Indicators: At least one study carried out for lesser studied groupField survey reportsPublication materialsBiodiversity databaseMonitoring plans  Biodiversity knowledge sharing between AHPsPartnership (s) MoUs signed with scientific institution No. of AHP staff trainedUse of modern technology in monitoring and addressing conservation and buffer zone management issues (at least one monitoring exercise conducted) Beneficiaries: KKKNP managementOther participated AHPs / NPs in Vietnam Relevant stakeholders (local authorities, NGOs, CSOs, research institutes, etc.)

A-3/ Monitoring the efficacy of regeneration and forest enrichment interventions

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Monitoring of the efficacy and recovery of areas under regeneration management to promote natural regeneration and areas under managed regeneration and enhancement planting in community forests will provide valuable data to improve forest management interventions and wise use of AHP financial resources.

Background:

A targeted monitoring and evaluation programme to test the efficacy of regeneration management activities and provide feedback for adaptive management. M&E should be participatory where ever possible, seek to build linkages with academic institutions and utilise the tools and skills developed through the GIS SGP. The SG should establish the protocols for monitoring and data collection is a long-term objective. Sequencing of this SG should be aligned with development of the GIS capacity. A key objective of this SG is to build an institutional culture of experimental management, to test the efficacy of different management approaches, monitor, evaluate, adapt and upscale. Building the confidence in ecosystem management to design interventions without necessarily knowing the outcome, but with clear conservation objectives, and to implement, monitor and adapt the intervention as the understanding of the system and how it is working grows – experimental management. The data collected will allow managers to plan future forest regeneration interventions with a view to providing cost-efficiencies by introducing management approaches which can critically evaluate interventions against indicators of a longer-term objective.

Objective: Improved adaptive management of regeneration management Key Activities: Monitoring programme designTrainingProcurementEstablishing monitoring protocols, data analysis & management actionsReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Impact of management interventions is objectively measuredImproved managementMonitoring capacity established Indicators: AHP staff trainedUse of monitoring protocols to inform managementChanges to management regimes Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Local communities Research institutions  

Remarks: Proponent is encouraged to integrate other component of SG packages such as interventions of A5. Proponent is to also consult park for additional interventions needed

A-4/ Strengthening connectivity

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

KKKNP is relatively small and isolated by large areas of agricultural land and infrastructure which creates barriers to connectivity, the flow of genetic material and creates isolated, vulnerable small populations. Isolation increases the risk of species loss, connectivity allows populations to mix reducing the risk of genetic erosion and catastrophic stochastic events. Roads, land clearance and other developments can create significant barriers which can be avoided by careful planning of set aside areas, corridors and crossing points.

Background:

It is necessary to carry out a study to determine which areas of the buffer zone and between other areas under protective management close to KKKNP in particular the Kon Ha Nung Nature Reserve, are necessary to create a joined-up system of habitats. Corridors can greatly expand the area available for biodiversity conservation. They can also provide considerable ecosystem services buffering environmentally sensitive areas, protecting water courses, preventing accelerated run off and nitrate infiltration to water courses amongst many other services which can have very positive and economically tangible benefits. A systematic review of KKKNP and the surrounding areas is necessary to develop a long-term strategic plan.

Objective: To increase the effective area for biodiversity conservation Key Activities: Study designIdentification of stakeholdersIdentification of methodologyTraining of AHP staffSurveyGIS and mappingParticipatory identification of key featuresParticipatory planning of approachesIdentification of support measures & financial assessmentReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Linkages between habitatsReduction of barriersIntegration of AHP into larger landscapeReduction of risks to key populations Indicators: AHP staff trainedSystemic plan to increase connectivity and reduce barriersChanges to management regimesIdentification of corridors and other approaches to improve connectivity Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Kon Ha Nung nature Reserve Local communities Research institutions  

 

A-5/ Species recovery plans

Grant type

Small grants: Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months) and Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months).

Rationale

Species recovery and management plans should be developed for key species. These need to be identified from the IUCN and Vietnam Red Data Book. There are a number of endemic species already identified whose conservation status is critical. In KKKNP, it should be highly focused on monitoring the regeneration and restoration of endangered plant and animal species (e.g., Garrulax konkakinhensis and Muntiacus truongsonensis). These species need to be assessed by an expert panel and their conservation needs articulated in a species recovery plan which might need ex situ (captive breeding, seed banks, living collections, etc.) interventions to preserve genetic material which would require developing linkages with international centres specialised in these species conservation and capable of building this capacity nationally as well as examining the increasing threats to these species as a result of habitat fragmentation (e.g. roads), external anthropogenic activities and climate change.

Background:

Establishing strong linkages with organisations (e.g. Kew Gardens, ZSL, FZS etc..) who have these capacities and are capable of transferring this expertise to the national and local level is critical to the success of these species’ recovery and management plans. It should aim to include KKKNP Center for Rescue, Conservation and Creature Development in learning by doing and through collaborative efforts such as ex situ activities raise the profile of KKKNP as a centre of biodiversity and conservation excellence. This can be done through the Botanical Garden in KKKNP.

Objective: Improving the conservation status of rare and at-risk species and habitats Key Activities: Identify of species/groups & habitats most at riskIdentification and engagement of suitable external partnersIdentification threatsSurveysMappingConservation intervention planning (participatory)/ methodologiesDeveloping species recovery plansAdaptive management (SFMP review)Preparation of material for public awareness Expected Outcomes: Increased AHP staff capacitiesSpecific management interventions for key species & habitats Indicators: Number of AHP staff trainedNumber of specific conservation interventionsNumber of external organisation linkages & collaborationsThreat reductions (as measured by TRA or similar tool) Beneficiaries: KKKNP management  

Remarks: Proponent is encouraged to integrate other component of SG packages such as interventions of A3. Proponent is to also consult park for additional interventions needed.

8.4.3 Highest Priority Community Outreach and Conservation Awareness (A)

A-6/ Training in outreach and community relations for AHP staffs

Grant type: Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

The role of the park management is changing from one focused on protection and enforcement to one which requires a collaborative and people-centred approach. Park staff need to build these skill sets and have the training and tools to interact with local communities.

However, outreach and awareness is a two-way process and AHP staff need to be trained in how to listen to local communities, how to facilitate participatory meetings, to collect objective and subjective data and to present that data in a way that planning and decision-making can be informed. These skills need to be learned. Very often park management interact with local communities due to conflict. Training in facilitation and conflict resolution are important skills and they need to have the right “tools” to allow broad participation in meetings in a non-confrontational way which allows a broad cross-section of stakeholders, with differing levels of education to participate and be heard.

Background:

In-service training in the approaches, methodologies and use of different tools for participatory approaches for engaging with local communities, especially in the buffer zone but also with visitors and local agencies. The approach should utilise real-time workshops and meetings to build the skills, attitude and confidence of park staff to engage with local stakeholders including presenting and promoting the park and listening and responding to community concerns. Necessary equipment can be purchased as identified for workshops, publications/promotions, etc. This SG should be sequenced before any awareness and community training programmes.

Objective: Improved AHP capacity for collaborative management Key Activities: Training needs assessment of AHP staff including the local language e.g. BahnarDesign of training coursesTraining for AHP staffReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: AHP Centre for Environmental Education & Forest Environmental Services fully resourced and capacitated Indicators: AHP staff trained   Beneficiaries: KKKNP management  

Remarks: It could be less than EUR 20,000. Proponent could combine interventions of SG packages A7 and A8 in the small grant proposal. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

A-7/ Awareness programme on KKKNP natural values

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

 Rationale

Planning and implementing awareness programme in 7 communes in the buffer zone special use forest zone area. There is a need to build an appreciation and awareness of the natural values of the AHP alongside an understanding of the future benefits from conservation. Furthermore, there is a lack of awareness of real and present threats from climate change and the necessity to take actions to mitigate and adapt to the effects of a warming climate.

However, it is also important that park staff is able to listen to local communities, to interact with them in a constructive way and to help them to articulate their knowledge and ideas to improve the AHP management.

Background:

Topics to include fire prevention, NTFP management and use, visits to elementary and secondary schools, posters and literature, training courses on management of the special use forests, and the use of media, holding of formal and informal commune meetings and workshops, etc.

Objective: Improved AHP-community relations Key Activities: Identify communitiesIdentify key issuesDesign of outreach programmeProcurementImplementation of outreach programmeReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Reduced conflictsCollaborative managementIncreased awareness Indicators: AHP-community conflictsMeetings held with local communitiesOutreach eventsAHP Centre for Environmental Education & Forest Environmental in negotiating collaborative management agreements Beneficiaries: KKNP management Local communities  

Remarks: It could be less than EUR 20,000. Proponent could combine interventions of SG packages A6 and A8 in the small grant proposal. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

A-8/ Awareness of climate change

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

There is little awareness of the effects of climate change and the risks that this will bring. Disaster preparedness and risk management is critical to the survival of these communities. Climate change preparedness, risk mitigation and adaptation need to be retro-fitted to development plans. The first step in this process is to make people aware of climate change.

Background:

Generally, there is a low awareness of the risks of climate change in terms of resilience – ecological, social, economic, infrastructure. Raising awareness will help all stakeholders to integrate adaptation and mitigation into their future planning. Topics to include what is climate change?, effects of climate change, mitigation and adaption strategies. Through a participatory approach and with the technical assistance stakeholders should identify the areas of highest risk and propose mitigation and adaptation strategies for future planning purposes.

Objective: Improving awareness and resilience of buffer zone communities Key Activities: Identify communitiesIdentify key climate change issues (making it relevant)Design of awareness programmeProcurementImplementation of awareness programmeReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Understanding of climate changeInclusion of risk in local commune plansRisk mitigation and adaption measures in aspects of life (farming, forest management, water management, housing, village infrastructure, etc.)Increased awareness Indicators: Climate change awarenessAdaption of mitigation measures Beneficiaries: Local communities KKNP management Kbang district and Dak Doa district  

Remarks: It could be less than EUR 20,000. Proponent could combine interventions of SG packages A6 and A7 in the small grant proposal. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

8.4.4 Highest Priority Community Development (A)

A-9/ Support to women’s groups

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Many rural people regard biodiversity and other natural values as an important part of their livelihood and its sustainable use is of real concern to them. Furthermore, biodiversity is a unique natural resource offering various opportunities for sustainable rural development and economic utilisation and that the protected areas system serves as a valuable reserve of biodiversity resources for neighboring communities. Women play an important role in the management of biodiversity and in rural circumstances women often have a high dependency on biodiversity and other natural resources for their livelihood security and its sustainable management is of real and practical concern to them.

Background:

Women have a high dependency on biodiversity resources and a very important role in their management; however, they are not empowered to adequately manage these resources sustainably. Empowerment of women and gender equality is complex and necessitates the removal of social, cultural, administrative, attitudinal and many other nuanced and pervasive barriers. Removing these barriers is a prerequisite to women playing an effective and equitable role in the sustainable management of biodiversity resources and the management of the AHP.  Therefore, addressing gender equality is a critical component of managing the AHP and the first steps are to address the basic inequalities which prevent their effective participation in AHP management. This intervention should focus on the underlying issues: women participation, domestic violence, access to education, access to basic services, family planning, building social capital, etc. Providing a supportive enabling environment and empowering women will allow women to participate in decision-making on issues affecting land use and ecological resilience in a positive way.

Objective: Equitable participation of women in the management of biodiversity resources Key Activities: Identify communities and women’s groupSensitise communities, local administration and state agenciesProcurement Study toursVillage meetingsWorkshops & consultationsReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review  Expected Outcomes: Empowerment of women Indicators: No. of sensitized communities / local administrationProcured itemsNo. of study toursMoM and action plansNo. of workshops and trainingTraining modules   Beneficiaries: Women and girls  

A-10/ Support of development of sustainable agriculture

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Within the buffer zone agriculture is often opportunistic and risk averse due to a lack of confidence in long term investment in agriculture and inequalities in access to services. There is little coordination between market pressures and extension services and support. Furthermore, ecosystem management is not factored into the agricultural system and downstream beneficiaries of any sustainable practices and the corresponding short-term opportunity losses are poorly recognised. As a result, productivity and land use efficiency are both low, leading to low economic value and land resources are gradually degraded and barren.

Background:

Support to farmers to develop more ecological approaches to farming, diversification, inclusion of ecosystem maintenance into farming practices and the valuing of these activities is necessary. Access to academic support, the transfer of knowledge and analytic skills, and the formulation of local policies that suit local needs are critical to resolving an adaptive challenge The introduction of new technologies is important, however, a participatory and “joined up” approach involving a broad range of stakeholders is necessary to address the immediate land degradation-poverty nexus facing many of the buffer zone communities. Local people in Ha Dong commune have a need to expand paddy rice area. Thus, this package could help local farmers (in Ha Dong commune, Dak Doa district) to expand and develop the paddy rice area by rehabilitating muddy soil.

Objective: Farming is sustainable on a range of social, economic and ecological measures Key Activities: Identify communities & individual farmersSensitize communities, local administration and state agenciesProcurement Study toursVillage meetingsWorkshops & consultationsReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Extension services provide sophisticated advice and supportSustainable land managementFarm risk reductionDiversified agriculture Indicators: Number of farmersFarm plansFarm profitsAdditional indicators captured through general monitoring (e.g. stream flows, water quality, etc…)Procured items Beneficiaries: Farmers and local communities  

Remarks: Proponent could combine interventions of SG packages A11 and/ or A12 in the small grant proposal. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

A-11/ Support for commune cooperatives

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Cooperatives play the role of supporting and directing agricultural production for farmers in the communes. Cooperatives will often be the focal point to supply high quality seedlings and fertilizers to farmers. In addition, the cooperation will play the role of finding output for local agricultural products by linking with processing companies and purchasing companies. However, the activities of the Cooperatives (except for Ayun Commune) are still very weak at present, there is no clear orientation to develop agricultural products. Farmers still produce products by themselves in the traditional way, with a small area, few products, and unstable quality. So, they have a low selling price. Commonly, when the yield is high, selling price will be decreased. In KKKNP, it is necessary to increase market access to the Litsea tree and cassava products.

Training of cooperative leadership in internal governance, management, grant application, book-keeping, project planning, marketing, etc., is important to build the social capital and cohesion of the communes in order that they can collectively manage common pool resources.

Background:

Effective management of the local communities’ resources needs effective coordination. Existing structures such as the cooperatives can provide a useful community-based structure to represent the various community interests. Using existing structures that are legitimised by the state and broadly accepted by the community members. Such structures can represent the diversity of interests within the community and to external state and non-state interests and decrease the asymmetrical nature of the relationship between community and state and the private sector actors. However, it is important that these community structures (such as the cooperative) have the basic capacities for internal self-organisation and these need to be built through a structured programme including study tours to other areas in Vietnam where communities are successfully managing natural resources.

Objective: Strengthening the capacities of cooperative and improve farmers / cooperative market access Key Activities: Identify communities & cooperativesSensitise communities, local administration and state agenciesProcurement Study tourincrease market access of the Litsea tree and cassava productsVillage meetingsWorkshops & consultationsReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Cooperatives’ capacities in organisation and Collaborative management strengthenedWiden the market access of productsReduced conflicts between AHP and community Indicators: AHP-community conflictsMeetings held with local communitiesOutreach eventsNo. workshops and training for communities and cooperativesAgreement of buyers (min. one)MoMs   Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Local communities  

Remarks: It could be less than EUR 20,000. Proponent could combine interventions of SG packages A10 and /or A12 in the small grant proposal. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

A-12/ Commercialisation of NTFPs

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Identification of NTFPs (e.g. orchids, rattan, Scaphium macropodum, etc., but also including timber species for enhancement planting on community land) with demand amongst the local and wider community for commercialisation including understanding their ecological envelope, conservation status, commercial properties, replication methodologies, suitability for cultivation or enhancement planting, harvesting techniques, processing and marketing. Many NTFPs are already used by the local communities but may also have potential for commercial upscaling. These need to be investigated and developed into programmes which support community livelihoods and conservation.

Background:

This should identify NTFPs which are either disappearing from the buffer zone due to over-exploitation or absent from the buffer zone but still present in the core zone. Opportunities for enhancement planting (e.g. establishing tree nurseries) and adding commercial value to buffer zone forested areas, field margins, erosion and slope stabilisation interventions, should be investigated and screened for sustainability and commercial viability. It is important that this approach establishes clear linkage between three major components, namely:

  1. Management of natural resources at the community level (the ‘NRM’ in CBNRM), this is the internal organisation necessary to sustainably manage a common pool resource and resources which may be distributed across different tenure arrangements (e.g. community forest and private farms).
  2. Capacity building of community institutions, improved internal governance, accountability and benefit distribution, etc.
  3. Income generation and employment creation through SMEs (small/medium enterprises) – the motivation for collective management and decision-making/trade-offs.

It should be noted that this is a mid to longer term investment and therefore the management and security of community investment (tenure) is a key component of any approach.

Objective: Diversification of livelihoods, income security, sustainable agriculture and agro-environmental agriculture practiced in the buffer zone (including inner buffer zones). Key Activities: Identification of participating communities and farmers/usersParticipatory screening for NTFPs suitable for commercialisationParticipatory screening of agricultural products suitable for mixed farmingParticipatory planning and design of systems for enhancement plantingParticipatory farm and land use planningLinkages with value chain approachReview and lessons learnedPolicy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Livelihood security & resilienceCollaborative managementLivelihood diversificationWomen involvement in commercial utilisation of NTFPs Indicators: Meetings held with local communitiesOutreach eventsAHP Centre for Environmental Education & Forest Environmental in negotiating collaborative management agreementsNumber of farms participatingFarm and non-farm incomes derived from NTFPsNumber of products per farmNumber of discrete practices (e.g. inter-cropping, enrichment of woodlots, nurseries, contour farming, composting, water conservation farming, mixed approaches, newly commercialised NTFPs, etc.)Inclusion of NTFPs in land stabilisation and agro-systems Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Local communities including women  

Remarks: Proponent could combine interventions of SG packages A10 and /or A11 in the small grant proposal. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

A-13/ Skills training for Bahnar basket weaving, brocade and traditional music instrument production

Grant type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months). This package could be a small grant depending of proposed interventions.

Rationale

Local cultural identity and craftsmanship is being lost for a variety of social and market pressures. The skills necessary for many of these local crafts are being lost with few young people entering the profession. However, these crafts are unique to the local communities and the area and represent significant products that can be used for income generation and maintaining the socio-cultural fabric and identity of these communities. The art of basket weaving is dieing out with fewer people passing on the necessary skills. Therefore, training by older basket weavers will need to be financed in order to teach younger generations entering the activity.

Background:

The Bahnar people have two main traditional occupations; those are brocade weaving and basket weaving (creating baskets made of rattan and bambo to store forest products or household items) and making brocade and traditional music instrument. The Bahnar people are trying to preserve their traditional skills such as basket weaving, brocade and music instrument, which is at risk of loss due to introduction of modern plastics and other storage materials. The traditional basket and music instrument products could be also sold as tourism products of KKKNP.

Objective: Promotion and maintenance of traditional skills such as basket weaving, brocade and traditional music  instrument Key Activities: Identify target communitiesIdentify participants (including women and young people)Engaging school for extra curriculum – reintroducing traditional skills for children and teachers Training workshops for participants and schoolsTraining for ToTsOutreach and campaignsProcurement of materials and equipmentTraining in small enterprises managementLinkages to in situ management of rattan and bambooExploring market access for these traditional products Expected Outcomes: Youth trained in basket weaving, making of traditional music instrument and brocadeSchool integrates traditional skill training as part of extra curriculumCommunity organisation strengthen  Indicators: Number of trainers trainedNo. women and young participantsNumber of basket weaversNo. of products producedNo. of outreach activities   Beneficiaries: Men, women and youth Local communities  

 

A-14/ Small scale (village and individual) composting

Grant type

   Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months).

Rationale

Replacement of external farm inputs through reducing reliance on artificial fertilisers and reducing the risk of nitrate and pesticide run-off in water courses and polluting drinking water.

Background:

Farm input costs are likely to increase in price in the short to medium term. Replacing artificial fertilizers with organic compost reduces the proportion of farm income on these inputs, improves soil fertility and conservation and reduces the risk of nitrate contamination of water courses as well as increasing soil carbon storage and improving soil moisture. Other practices such as constant cover crops, crop rotation, etc., should be included where feasible. Consider using one grant for farmer field schools and micro-grants for upscaling.


 Objective: Improved soil fertility and reducing farmers’ production costs		 Key Activities: Identification of communitiesParticipatory approaches to determining methodologies (including on-farm monitoring)Screening for gender equalityTraining for composting and natural/integrated pest control Expected Outcomes: Reduced dependency on artificial fertilizerHigher soil moisture throughout growing seasonDiversification of cropsHigher yields per unit input Indicators: Number of farmers trainedQuantity of compost produced per farmerProportion of farm gate price spent on artificial fertiliserSoil metrics (fertility, organic component, moisture retention)Number of women participating Beneficiaries: Local farmers KKKNP management  

 

A-15/ Micro-support for community development

Grant type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months). Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)[1]

Rationale

Access to finance is a barrier to sustainable land use and economic livelihoods. Weak financial support results in short term approaches to agriculture and a lack of investment in processing and post-harvest value added activities as well alternative livelihood opportunities including non-farm activities. Micro-grants can be used to support the larger small grants as a means to upscale and replicate.

Background:

Local communities in the buffer zone face specific challenges in their achieving their development aspirations. Access to financial support is a significant barrier. However, given the dual purposes of the buffer zone (socio-economic development and conservation) it is important that support to socio-economic development is provided within a framework that allows both objectives, that is; that economic development does not discount ecosystem goods and services. Therefore, small to micro-interventions can have a profound effect on local communities and individuals allowing them to overcome barriers to development and to reduce risks in untested or alternative livelihood activities. In particlular, farmers in Ha Dong commune (Dak Doa district) have a need to expand paddy rice area by rrehabilitating the muddy soil. This package needs to take place within framework which supports the internal organisation of these communities to sustainably manage their common pool resources.

Small grants for these activities can be provided within the framework of SGs:

SP should constantly monitor these packages and when early signs of success are evident they should rapidly up-scale.

Objective: Communities, farmers, processors, traders have access to small scale financing to remove specific barriers (e.g. access to tools, small scale construction, farm inputs, trade materials, etc.) Key Activities: Identification of participantsSensitization of participants to opportunitiesScreening for gender sensitivityTraining & support for accessing grantsProcessing grant applicationsTechnical support to GranteesM&ETraining for farmers / women on sustainable farming, composting productionIntroducing energy saving stove / equipment Improving marginalised farmers’ farm prodcution through sustainable mannerMarket access of farm products / NTFPs/ traditional productsIntroduce value added farm productsHome / backyard gardening to reduce food shortage Expected Outcomes: Communities have access to small-scale financing to overcome development barriers Indicators: Number of communities successfully accessing grantsNumber of community organisations accessing grantsNumber of individuals accessing grantsNumber of women accessing grantsNumber of new (alternative) activities establishedNumber of collective actions accomplishedFood shortage monthsFood shortage incidentsCross slope barriersFodder banksSales of farm products/ traditional products/ NTFPsNo. of environmental friendly or energy saving equipment introducedNo. of farmers / women/ young people trainedNo. of value added products producedPermanent raised vegetable plots (or similar)Reduction of household expensesTime spent trying to meet daily needsAvailability of secure water supplyAccess to rice mills & corn shellersSchool attendance improved Beneficiaries: Local communities

8.4.5.  Highest Priority Tourism/ Ecotourism Interventions (A)

A-16/ Development of visitor interpretation facilities for KKKNP

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale:

In 2017, the KKKNP developed the masterplan for ecotourism development. The masterplan provides basic information and development strategy for ecotourism development in the KKKNP. The park is now working to upgrade the masterplan. Nature conservation and scientific projects related to the species are very interesting topics for ecotourists. The knowledge about KKNP endangered species especially the primates and how to behave as a tourist will contribute to their protection instead of destroying their habitats and lives. At present, KKKNP has no visitor interpretation facilities which could provide interesting information to tourists and visitors.

Background:

The visitor intepretation facilities serve as visitor information centre for the endangered species, tourism products that offered in KKKNP, minorities’ cultural and special events and festivals, to attract more visitors (tourists, school children, researchers and public institutions).

Objective: Improve tourism information and facilities in KKKNP Key Activities: Participatory workshops organized for relevant stakeholders on identifying gaps in tourism information and facilitiesAgreement on binding criteria for sustainable ecotourism, which protects nature and biodiversityData collection, incl. fact finding of existing/ potentially future tourism and environmental impacts/ biodiversity lossDevelop concept for the existing Zoo/ animal welfare center (focus on scientific/ educational )Identify existing facilities that are needed for upgrading Didactical and architectural design concept for Interpretation Centre (focusing on primate- KKKNP unique key species) and Forest school at CEEFES – a part of KKKNP branding strategyIdentify information for display and content designSetting up facilitiesWorkshops/ online Workshops Promotion and outreach activities Expected Outcomes: Decision makers both from the public and the private sector are involvedBlue prints of design developedAt least 2 facilities set up / upgradedTourists and visitors are well informed on KKKNP efforts in biodiversity conservation Indicators: Design concept and content for interpretation facilityBlue prints of design No. of facilitiesBiodiversity information developed and publishedImplementation of measures to protect nature and landscape and to introduce nature and biodiversity to tourists and other visitors Beneficiaries: CEEFES / KKKNP management Communities in KKKNP Tourism stakeholders (e.g. associations or CSOs)

Example for an outdoor wooden pavilion for interpretation centre/ tourist info center: Preah Khan Visitor Center Cambodia

Examples national park information panels for visitors:

A-17/ Workshops on sustainable ecotourism

Grant type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months)

Rationale

Among local stakeholders (national park administrations, the provincial level, tourism service providers) the term ‘ecotourism’ is mostly defined as ‘construction’ of infrastructure and the development of buildings etc. Usually, construction measures in national parks are not allowed all over the world, maybe exceptionally in cases where they explicitly contribute to the protection and preservation of biodiversity or are indispensable as environmental education measures or for research projects. The international agreements and criteria (such as UNESCO Biosphere reserve and AHP) should be adhered to ensure the natural values of KKKNP is still intact and not expose to high risks. These workshops and activities will not only help to clarify the international defined term for ecotourism and raise awareness among the local stakeholders, provide insights into international ecotourism source markets, but also help to establish contacts in terms of ‘real’ and sustainable ecotourism development. Any kind of further construction infrastructure in the National Park could have serious consequences for the unique species (especially primates) and endanger their survival not only by the impact of construction (roads, earthmoving, rock blasting, etc.) but also by other impacts (waste, sewage, noise, artificial lighting, etc.). Even poaching and wildlife trafficking could increase due to better accessibility to more remote regions of the national park.

Background:

AHPs (incl. KKKNP), nature reserves, district and local authorities, tourism service providers (e.g. accommodation), tourism organizations and tour operators, national park representatives, UNESCO and ACB representatives, NGOs, universities, other experts and representatives of biodiversity research projects should discuss and having common understanding on the KKKNP species conservation needs (esp. highly endangered Primates), current tourism target markets, target groups and requirements for ecotourism. Active participation is needed among all representatives of all AHPs. If needed, the support of an national / regional /international expert should be acquired. Due to the complexity of the topic the workshop-series could last for 2-3 days minimum (including working groups and a short site inspection).

Objective: Common understanding between KKKNP and local stakeholders to actively support the development of sustainable ecotourism in future which helps to protect and to develop the endangered biodiversity under clear criteria Key Activities: Research & contacting of potential participants and expertsCoordination of topics, discussion needsDrafting of a questionnaire on key statements and evaluation of resultsDevelopment of workshops’ programsCoordination of workshops and appointment of a moderatorDiscussion and decision on requirements for activitiesPress release Expected Outcomes: Increased awareness Enrich in experience exchanges Establish common understanding / vision on sustainable tourism in KKKNP Indicators: No. of relevance of topics discussedNo. of relevance of local and international experts contributed to the workshopWorkshops MoMs and written common understanding on sustainable ecotourism Press release Beneficiaries: KKKNP management PPC, DPC AHPs in Vietnam

Remark: It could be less than EUR 20,000. Proponents are highly encouraged to combine with interventions of other SG packages such as A16 for proposal development. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

A-18/ Ecotourism website of KKKNP

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale:

Currently there is only fragmentary information available about the national park online. The creation of a website with information on ecotourism experiences and current events, as well as the work of the national park administration, would be very helpful in getting tourists even more excited about the region and thus prolonging their stay. In addition, this would provide an opportunity to encourage environmentally friendly behavior and convey such key messages to visitors and public. In particular, the rare primates of the national park and interesting information about their lives could also be thematized on the website. The existing website of KKKNP is not well developed both in information and format aspects. In order to introduce tourist attractions and promote ecotourism development in the park, developing ecotourism website is needed

Background:

A website for KKKNP (e.g. also with a national park web application) and linked with social media channels could summarize the ecotourism attractions of KKKNP. It can also include the offers of partner-service providers of the national park (with condition that they meet certain sustainability criteria and actively engaging in the promotion of KKKNP). The aim of this measure focus on working out suitable strategies for the digital communication of the national park, which at the same time could be used as important tool to gather tourism related data for KKKNP.

Objective: Comprehensive ecotourism presence in digital format Key Activities: Participatory workshop organized for relevant stakeholdersIdentification of contentIdentification of ways of presentation and implementation/ linkagesKey messages from KKKNPIdentified Ecotourism products of KKKNP to be introducedData management and evaluationMaintenance and operating of the websiteTraining for maintenance of website  Expected Outcomes: Ecotourism activities which help to protect nature and biodiversity introduced and promotedThemes and activitiesBetter image/ reputation of KKKNP (incl. national Park Administration and their activities)Data gathering (from tourists) Indicators: Website in at least in two different languages and for different target groups (e.g. bird watchers, hikers, children etc.)Bookable productsSustainability messages clear and visible Beneficiaries: KKKNP PPC Communities in KKKNP Tourism stakeholders (e.g. associations or CSOs)

8.4.6. High Priority General Park Management Interventions (B)

B-1/ Participatory Threat Reduction Assessment

Grant type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months).

Rationale

The challenges facing the AHP are only weakly defined and understood in terms of cause and effect. It is important that all stakeholders define these threats and challenges through a participatory approach and jointly develop efficient and equitable strategies and management actions to address these threats within the framework of the SFMP.

Background:

Introduction of participatory facilitation tools (e.g. Threat Reduction Assessment tool, or similar tool), external and impartial facilitation of stakeholder groups and interests, strengthening M&E approaches (impact, effectiveness, threat reduction, etc.), strengthening adaptive & collaborative management, sequential engagement (regular contact of stakeholder groups) will strengthening management planning capacities and multi-stakeholder participation.

Objective: Increased understanding of key AHP management issues and objectives Key Activities: Identification of participantsSensitization of participants to methodologiesScreening for gender equalityTrainingTRA workshopsValidationReporting & integration of results into SFMP Expected Outcomes: Increased and diversified participation in collaborative managementIncreased understanding of driving forces of changeImproved management planning skillsIncreased use of participatory tools and methodologiesInclusion of women in collaborative forest managementImproved institutional culture of monitoring and evaluation (adaptive management) Indicators: Number of AHP technicians involvedNumber of local government agencies involvedNumber of local communities involvedNumber of women participatingNumber of workshops heldNumber of participatory M&E (e.g. TRA) exercises heldAwareness of threats and issues (subjective – baseline & end)Awareness of participatory M&E tools (subjective – baseline & end) Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Local communities Kbang district and Dak Doa district  

Remark:

B-2/ English language skills training for AHP staffs

Grant type

Small grants: Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Improving the language skills of AHP management staff is an important part of career advancement and fulfilment. It helps staff to better communicate with visitors and other agencies. Improved language skills will facilitate the development of relationships with external partners.

Background:

Language skills allow staff to participate more broadly and equally, these skills empower staff to access information and support formal training through self-advancement. Language training can be better achieved by partnering with organisations that can provide training to groups of staff for cost-effectiveness.

Objective: AHP staff able to participate in conservation at a global level and access global experience and support resources Key Activities: Identify staffGender screeningTraining Expected Outcomes: Increased AHP staff capacities Indicators: Number of AHP staff with second language skillsJob satisfaction (subjective – baseline & end) Beneficiaries: KKKNP management  

Remark: This package could be less than EUR 20,000. Proponents are highly encouraged to combine with interventions of other SG packages such as A1, A6, and /or B3 for proposal development. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

B-3/ Capacity building for financial planning of AHP

Grant type

Small grants: Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Financial planning is critical to the successful running and development of a protected area. It aligns the management planning and work programmes (the SFMP) with the financial and material resources necessary to successfully Implement its management objectives. Financial planning should be carried out with the broad participation of the AHP staff across departments and led by the AHP Department of Finance & Planning facilitated by an external financial Planning expert (organisation).

Background:

The financial planning determines the historical investment in the AHP and produces a forecast necessary to implement the management (SFMP) plan over the plan’s lifetime. The finances are arranged in such a way as to disaggregate work programmes, recurrent costs, revenue streams, etc. This allows flexible responses to uncertainty based on realistic costing and forecasts. It identifies sources (internal and external) of financing, identifies funding gaps, provides strategies to address shortfalls in advance and provides a framework for innovative financing mechanisms. Furthermore, it provides a basis for transparency and accountability for investments. In its simplest form it is a spreadsheet approach to financial planning which is dynamic and allows the AHP management to respond to rapidly evolving situations.

Objective: Sustainable AHP (including buffer zone) financing Key Activities: Identify staff for participatory planningFinancial planning workshops & trainingReview current and historical financing scenariosCollect & collate financial dataJointly draft Financial Plan   Expected Outcomes: Increased AHP staff capacitiesIncreased understanding of AHP financing & financial challenges & opportunitiesImproved financial planning & management Indicators: Number of AHP staff trainedNumber of AHP revenue streamsState budget allocation Beneficiaries: KKKNP management  

Remark: This package could be less than EUR 20,000. Proponents are highly encouraged to combine with interventions of other SG packages such as A1, A6, and /or B3 for proposal development. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

8.4.7 High Priority Tourism/ Ecotourism Interventions (B)

B-4/ Promotion and development of local products, traditional handicraft and techniques

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale:

Visible best practice examples for sustainable tourism and innovations (e.g. product innovations incl. service quality) are lacking, and there are no incentives for such promotion. As experience shows, it is not certifications and labelling that attract tourists, but awards that are won in competitions and result in the corresponding PR.

Background:

The focus of best practices should be on the promotion and development of local products, traditions and handicraft techniques, which contribute to the protection of biodiversity. This can be interpretation and guiding infrastructure (samples), tourism products, which are of outstanding value in terms of biodiversity.

Objective: Promotion and development of local products, traditions and handicraft techniques, which contribute to the protection of biodiversity conservation Key Activities: Orientation meeting between AHPsAgreement on leadership, personnel, definition of topics and work areas, meetingsEstablishment and maintenance of a websiteIdentification of tourism service providers and individuals to develop product innovations in tourism and related services and productsEstablishment of a steering group/ jury by engaging qualified tourism expertsDevelopment of competition categories and criteriaAccommodation service providers (eg. homestay owners) develop their own common brand and promote the AHP, offer or co-ordinate nature/ eco-tours PR and international networkingOrganization of one competition per yearApplication procedure, jury meeting and awarding (incl. press releases) Expected Outcomes: Awareness and competitiveness of the AHPs and sustainable ecotourism service providers is raised,innovative sustainable tourism products which sharpen the positive image of each AHP as destinationIncreased visitor expenditures and length of stay lead Enhanced capacity of service providers in tourism (1st and 2nd value chain level)increased understanding of a common destination, competitiveness and more co-operation at destination level. Indicators: Cooperation platform is created and AHPs participate in common exchange of experiences and joint activities/projectsWebsite was created, news will be publishedAt least one competition/ year organizedOne innovative service provider/ product identified and awarded per yearannual report with presentation of activities and work planning for the following year has been completed. Beneficiaries: KKKNP management and participating AHPs management Communities in Tourism stakeholders (e.g. associations or CSOs)

 

B-5/ Training of AHP staff on ecotourism management and participatory threat reduction

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

KKKNP is lack of personnel capacities and knowledge to promote and manage sustainable ecotourism. Enhancing the capacity of AHP will contribute to biodiveristy conservation of KKKNP.

Background:

The aim is to identify, to officially nominate and to qualify a responsible person for ecotourism development and to equip this person in a way that the ability to work is guaranteed and that measures to enforce sustainable ecotourism and to avoid harmful activities in the protected area can be developed.

Objective: Enhance capacity of ecotourism management in the national park Key Activities: Identification of general goals and objectives Job profile and requirements, job description and required qualificationsClarification of workplace/office space and requirements for equipmentSelection of a candidateInternship/ practice in a well-established national park (approx. 3 months)Procurement of needed technical equipment (e.g. computer, printer, radio, soft-/ hardware, drone, camera, GPS tracker etc.)Elaboration of annual work plan, training (also possible by online meetings)TOR for external service providers (e.g. landscaping, carpenter, graphic designer and print)Quality controlImplementation of measuresActivity plan for the upcoming year Expected Outcomes: One qualified ecotourism expert authorized, enabled and equipped to plan and implement sustainable ecotourism measures Indicators: At least a competent person to manage ecotourism activities The specialist has appropriate knowledge, decision making authority and equipment and will work within a defined work plan and provided budgets in the field of sustainable ecotourism and biodiversity conservationquarterly quality control (in the first year), half-yearly quality control from the second year on (evaluation reports)At least 3 measures implemented per year (e.g. information and interpretation material for ecotourists, visitor guiding and interpretation signs, hiking trails, workshops and meetings with stakeholders etc.) Beneficiaries: KKKNP management  

B-6/ Exchange trip to other National Parks on the topic of ecotourism and destination management, and enhance co-operation between national parks, private sector and international institutions

Grant Type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months)

Rationale

The demand for nature experience in tourism is increasing, as the resource of untouched nature with rare species is becoming drastically rare all over the world, KKKNP offers good opportunity to tackle such demands. The decreasing availability of nature and sustainable ecotourism destinations is also reflected in the price for such tourism products. However, ecotourism requires strategic destination management, where all stakeholders (public and private) work together and where the protection of biodiversity becomes a central component of tourism products. In order to make this complex topic tangible, a study and exchange trip are necessary to provide more insights into this sector. Besides, co-operation between AHPs and international partners (national parks and nature conservation) would significantly contribute to experience exchange, knowledge gathering and common activities in order to protect biodiversity through sustainable tourism.

Background

The trip will not only provide visits to different practical examples (e.g. protected areas and tourism, national park partner programs, destination management agencies, specialized tourism service providers for eco- and adventure tourism or specialized accommodation providers, scientific institutions etc.), but also help to establish important contacts to actors from the public and private sector or scientific institutions and multipliers which will strengthen the cooperation. The cooperation takes place online, but also with mutual visits and project activities on specific jointly defined topics. Individual AHPs can volunteer to take over the leadership of the cooperation on an annual basis.

The activities are recommended to be implemented with a mixed form between physical visit and digital exchange. With live transmissions of inspections from different national parks in Asia (e.g. rangers with head cameras, drone flights, etc.) or online meetings, national parks or corresponding experts from Europe or the US can also be involved, which makes the exchange much more effective. It is also important to priorly define the relevant topics that generate a corresponding interest for an exchange.

Objective: Enhance awareness of biodiversity importance in relation to ecotourism management in national park and strengthen the cooperation between public and private sectors Key Activities: Identification of members for an ecotourism steering group (should be mixed, e.g. public, private, villagers, NGO)Identification of themes to be discussed Agreement on content and programAgreement on knowledge dissemination (after the trip), e.g. thematic working groups, video etc.Search for partners and sites to be visited in best practice protected areas in Vietnam / AMS Preparation, organisation and guiding of the tripDebriefing and reportingEvent in Vietnam/ presentation of results, press releaseEstablishment of international contacts (e.g. to IUCN, WWF, GIZ, USAID, Frankfurt Zoological Society etc.) for further information gathering and networking (experience exchange)Workshops/ online Workshops about current environmental impacts, existing and planned tourism projects or activities which are affecting the AHPs biodiversity, showcases/ best practices from other countries, inputs from the ecotourism industry (specialized tour operators, eco-architects and –planners, eco-lodges etc. Expected Outcomes: Participants recognize the potential of ecotourism Participants understood strategies and can convincingly communicate essential content to other relevant authorities and stakeholders in Vietnam Decision makers both from the public and the private sector are aware about biodiversity protection needs and agree on measures for sustainable ecotourism development, which are based on common criteria, valid for all AHP in Vietnam Indicators: Contacts for further co-operation established (at least one per AHP)Practical knowledge about protected areas, sustainable tourism and destination management, product development, marketing, biodiversity issues gatheredAt least 3 members of each AHP identified and actively participated with relevant content according to the above described topicsAt least 3 international contacts to national parks or nature conservation/ sustainable tourism organizations established and knowledge about tourism in national parks gatheredNegative impacts of current tourism use identified and clearly/ comprehensively described (impact analysis/ study)Measures agreed to minimize further negative impacts by tourism businesses and their infrastructure to the AHP (step-by-step plan elaborated)Manual and checklist, agreement between AHPS, binding agreement between stakeholders, binding rules for tourism use/ certification elaborated and applied Beneficiaries: KKKNP management PPC Communities in KKKNP Tourism stakeholders (e.g. associations or CSOs) 

Remark:

B-7/ Training of nature tour guides (with specification on primates)

Grant type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months)

Rationale:

Tour guides in KKKNP (NP staff) do not have the necessary ecological expertise to handle interesting and inspiring tours with different target groups. Knowledge with scientific background and at the same time the ability to communicate this in an interesting, entertaining and understandable way is not available, despite the unique ecological features of KKKNP and esp. the rare and highly endangered Primates. Of course, language skills also play a decisive role. Tourism as income source requires language skills so that villagers are able to communicate with tourists from main source markets (such as e.g. English, Chinese).

The role of tour guides should not be underestimated in terms of nature conservation and by forming the image of a destination. Tour guides thus have a special responsibility, not only to ensure a successful visitor experience, but also to ensure that natural resources are protected. At the same time, they are ambassadors for the area visited and thus play a major role in shaping visitors’ perceptions and impressions of the national park.

Background:

To develop a training program for professional tour guiding of visitors in KKKNP with special consideration of the life of the Primates in KKKNP. The training will include the improvement of language skills (esp. providing information to tourists, knowledge about nature and biodiversity, to be able to introduce local traditions and culture and tourism services in general). The aim is a certificate for ecotourism tour guiding in KKKNP.

Objective: Qualified tour guides with specific knowledge about the rare Primates in KKKNP and avoidance of negative impacts to Landscape and ecology Key Activities: Assess the needs Scientific expert group developing a training programme with certification procedureProvide survey before and after trainingDevelop training module   Expected Outcomes: Ecotourism Management in KKKNPCertified tour guides qualified for different target groups (e.g. local and foreign tourists, families, children, handicapped people etc.)Income generation at local level Indicators: Training programCertificateAt least 3 tour guides successfully passed the training Beneficiaries: CEEFES Local population KKKNP Tourism stakeholders (e.g. associations or CSOs) Visitors of the park, incl. school children

Remark:

The package could be less than EUR 10,000. Proponents are highly encouraged to combine with interventions of other packages (B-5 to B-9) to the proposed small grants. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

B-8/ Awareness raising campaign to promote sustainable ecotourism

Grant type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months)

Rationale

To counter the lacking awareness and knowledge about opportunities of sustainable ecotourism and a lacking valuation of biodiversity and unspoiled nature, an awareness raising campaign could stimulate ecotourism awareness among stakeholders, make key messages visible and thus enhance ownership.

Background:

Awareness raising about the values of biodiversity and to behave environmentally friendly as tourist/ visitor of the AHP, but also of locals living in and around the park. This requires a particularly convincing corporate design strategy, which is to be developed through a competition. All promotional items should be distributed for free (could be combined with a nature quiz), mainly to national park staff, school-children and villagers in and around the national park. The measure could be combined with events such as a painting competition for school-children, cleaning up activities, workshops/ events with local villagers about ecotourism. For tourists these items should be sold (e.g. at the national park entrance). The income will help to cover production costs for new items.

Objective: Awareness raising of sustainable ecotourism Key Activities: Design competition among graphic designers (corporate design of a communication strategy) incl. messages, proposals for logo, slogan, design for T-shirts, flyers, posters, stickers, merchandising items like for exampleSelection of the most qualified candidateTendering of productionAgreements with partners for distribution (e.g. national park, shops, villages, tour operators etc.)Distribution (e.g. national park entrance, tourist information Centers, airports, selected service providers such as accommodation, events, lottery, environmental activities with school children, universities, villagers etc.) and administration (incl. book keeping) within the AHP administration (non-profit approach) Expected Outcomes: The campaign visualizes the idea of nature experience and biodiversity protection by making the value of biodiversity visible in the daily life.   Indicators: At least 5000 flyers and stickers distributed250 Posters (A3 format) visible in the areas and surrounding the national park Promotional materials e.g. 500 T-Shirts, caps and 1000 merchandising articles distributed in the first year after project start   Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Local communities and producers (e.g. agricultural products, souvenirs etc.)      

Remark:

The package could be less than EUR 10,000. Proponents are highly encouraged to combine with interventions of other packages (B-5 to B-9) to the proposed small grants. The proposal plan should clearly state all the objectives, outcomes and outputs.  Proponent should consult KKKNP beforehand.

B-9/ Ecotourism and Biodiversity Day

Grant type

Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months)

Rationale

A measure to introduce local produce, sustainability, the need to protect biodiversity enforce sustainable tourism and to create public attention about these topics (incl. PR). A co-ordinated initial public event at each of the parks would help generate attention to the major challenges that need to be addressed.

Background:

A series of events with different topics in combination with activities and involvement of various stakeholders (public and private sector, villagers, scientific institutions, NGO’s) can raise awareness about biodiversity, facilitate a first exchange between stakeholders and contribute to the dissemination of news in different media. In addition, domestic tourism offers could be promoted.

Objectives: Awareness raising among locals and strengthening the co-operation with the AHP Key Activities: Identification of themes and participantsPreparation and agreement on concept (incl. online/ social media and print)Public relationCleaning up eventMarket for local productsPresentation of best practicesPanel discussionsEco-/ biodiversity-/ national park quiz and awards for student groups and school AHP sport event (cycling, triathlon, dragon boat race, canoe race, swimming competition, mountain race etc.) Expected Outcomes: Awareness raised – participants gain new insightsEstablish contacts and share experiences, continue to co-operate   Indicators: Press clippingEvent program and relevance to ecotourism/ biodiversityInformation material and leafletsParticipants of the quizAmount of waste collectedEstimation of participants (per AHP)No. of active supportersEvents/ discussions with relevance to biodiversity, ecotourism, nature conservationNo. of regional products (agriculture, handicraft)No of regional cultural activities and events presented (music, theatre, dance etc.) Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Communities in KKKNP Tourism stakeholders (e.g. associations or CSOs) Ethnic minorities in KKKNP

Remark:

B-10/ Promotion of cultural/ traditional heritage KKKNP

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale:

As competition between tourism destinations is rapidly growing, the uniqueness, image and attractiveness can be increased by pointing out the local authenticity in combination with storytelling. Another advantage is that products which are based on local authenticity also provide a much better source of income for the inhabitants of a destination. KKKNP has yet to fully develop tourism themes and storytelling. Hence more KKKNP background information and its unique features and species are needed for developing sustainable ecotourism products which help to increase the income of locals.

Background:

This proposal aims to gather relevant information for development of storiestelling content, thematic tours around the traditional life and the cultural heritage in the context of KKKNP. Women and elderly groups who have a lot of local knowledge should be actively engaged. The process needs shall be guided by a scientific expert group, representatives of the tourism industry and representatives of local villages.

Objective: Enhancing the narrative value of KKKNP to add value to the tourist experience Key Activities: Step 1: Establishment of a working and steering group (with local representatives and experts from scientific institutions etc.)Step2: Knowledge gathering from different minorities, women, elder people to compile a comprehensive collection of traditional legends and myths about the lake, traditional recipes, healing methods, species and biodiversity, locations and their meanings or believes in general.Step 3: Documentation (text incl. videos such as from interviews, photos) and analyses, workshop on findings with experts Step 4: evaluation of results, ranking of topics/ themesStep 5: workshops with tourism experts and tour operatorsStep 6: Training of locals in storytelling and tour guiding (in the first step basics, to assist professional tour guides), development of a guided tour with storytelling, incl. pricing, marketing, products distribution (also with tour operators)Step 7: Opening event, test run, press conferenceStep 8: implementation, trials with tourists, lessons learnt Expected Outcomes: Product development and diversificationIncrease of income for locals (use of local potential)More qualified and sustainable tourism productsSharpening the unique selling proposition and market position of KKKNP Indicators: At least 4 narratives identified and transformed into tourist products (e.g. guided tours) Beneficiaries: Local communities and minorities (women in particular) KKKNP management and local communities Tourism stakeholders (e.g. associations or CSOs) Visitors of the park,  incl. school children      

8.4.8 Moderate Priority Community Development (C)

C-1/ Strenthening value chain approach for NTFP, local agricultural and traditional products

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months) and Micro grants: up to 10,000 (up to 8 months).

Rationale

Establishing value chains from production to market for NTFP species, local agricultural and traditional products already under commercial utilisation.

It is recommended that this is a participatory approach with the cooperatives to build the capacity for basic understanding of value chains for future identification of products and markets of buffer zone resources currently not in commercial production.

Background:

This should support value chain analysis and economic/financial feasibility studies to determine the viability of the different value chains and support their development as appropriate. The process will involve support to a participatory supply chain diagnosis, planning and implementation to analyse the constraints and opportunities in the development of local supply to an off-taker. The package should also provide support of initial and basic equipment for  local community in developing agricultural and traditional products. In KKKNP, beekeeping for honey could be one of suitale options for this package.

Objective: Improved markets and value added to NTFPs benefitting farmers and resources users in the buffer zone (including the inner buffer zone). Key Activities: The process should identify the specific steps that need to be in place to support producers and resource user groups. It should focus on commodities that are currently being produced/exploited, with a view to improving the benefits to these groups and ensuring that both supply and demand sides of the supply chain are improved. It will also target products that can be easily exploited.Review of role of women in value chain. The phases involved in value chain supplier development include: Supply Chain Diagnostics – to assess the supply chain of each identified focal commodity and look at the constraints along the supply chain and identifying barriers for the smallholder producers of the commodity from engaging in commercial activities and supplying to the off-takers.Supply Chain Development Planning – following the diagnosis, develop strategies and practical supply chain implementation plans, backed by partnership agreements between stakeholders.Supply Chain Development Implementation – selection of strategies and business models that will empower small scale suppliers in the supply chain, including the following:Upgrading as a chain actor: the producers become specialists with a clear market orientation;Adding value through vertical integration: the producers move into joint processing and marketing in order to add value;Developing chain partnerships: the producers build long-term alliances with buyers that are centred on shared interests and mutual growth; andDeveloping ownership over the chain: the producers try to build direct linkages with consumer markets.Policy feedback and review Expected Outcomes: Sustainable use of NTFPsIncreased diversity of NTFPs in commercial usageIncreased farm & non-farm incomesLocal processing and adding value to farm and NTFP products (increased farmgate/forest user prices achieved)Diversification of income generating activities.Women participating in more income-generating activities Indicators: Prices of NTFPsNumber of processing stages of NTFPsNumber of players/transactions between producer & consumerWomen involvement in value chains Beneficiaries: KKKNP management Local communities  

8.4.9 Moderate Priority for Ecotourism Development (C)

C-2/ Capacity building of minorities (esp. women) in commercialization of rural and nature-based tourism using social media platforms

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale

Destination management, product diversification and the appearance of sustainable ecotourism promoting the values of landscape and biodiversity is currently very weak. Women can support sustainable tourism development at home with computers, but need to be trained and equipped with notebooks/ tablets, software and in remote regions with electricity (e.g. by small solar power cells) and internet access.

Background:

Applying social media platforms in tourism promotion and commercialization play an increasingly important role. This not only applies to communicating tourism in social media, but also to market/ promote tourist attractions and local tourism products. Women not only know their surroundings and the social and cultural environment very well, they are proficient in traditional cuisine and take care of setting up and maintaining the homestays. Thus, they are in close contact with tourists and know the target groups. In addition, they are usually very well connected. With the acquired skill, it would increase income for the local women and attract more young people. It is also an alternative source of income for women who need to tend to families and children, beside providing opportunity for these women for for further education.

Objective: Enhanced capacity of minorities in sustainable ecotourism Key Activities: Identification of topics and partners (e.g. international platforms who deal with digital tourism and search for individuals who would like to join)Identification of trainers and partner companies (those who are already successful in digitalizing tourism worldwide) Expected Outcomes: Local minority women are empowered to drive digitalization in tourism based on local cultural and nature-based tourism attractions, increasing their income from home Indicators: At least 10 women per AHP have successfully completed the training measures, are technically equipped and are able to successfully promote the cultural and nature tourism potential of their home places using social media platforms Beneficiaries: Women in particular, minorities

C-3/ Development of primate souvenirs as part of KKKNP branding

Grant type

Small grants: 20,000 to 100,000 (6 months to 15 months)

Rationale:

Even if there are currently few tourists, high-quality souvenirs can strengthen the national park and its positive image. To generate revenue from innovative souvenirs, they do not necessarily have to be sold on site (they can also be sold in cities visited by tourists or in airport stores). Locally carved/ produced souvenirs, which represent the Primates as unique destination-image of the as destination are currently not available. Hence, the potential of an important image building factor and an income source for local villagers is not fully explored.

Background

‘Primate Souvenirs’ are a perfect tool to strengthen and transform the image of KKKNP as one of the most important unique selling points of the Destination. However, the product should be produced in a unique and common design which represents and supports the branding of KKKNP.  Such design must be consistent and convincing with high product quality (incl. packaging) and clearly show a linkage to the Primates as umbrella brand of KKKNP. It is recommended that all souvenirs shall strictly follow the principle of environmental- and biodiversity protection. They should stand for sustainability, should be made from organic material, should not contain electrical components or plastic and also should contribute to avoid waste (‘eco-packaging’). To ensure quality and product standards, a concept with product designers (specialized in the development of sustainability and eco products) needs to be developed first. Secondly, producers from the villages need to be trained and equipped with appropriate handicraft-tools. At third, a marketing and distribution strategy (all products under one umbrella brand) needs to be developed and partners for implementation are to be identified.

Objective: Income generation, strengthening of the image of KKKNP, communicating the need of sustainability and nature conservation Key Activities: Step1: Setting up a project group with project manager, evaluation of existing products and skills in the villages around KKKNPStep 2: To organize a competition for product designers, tendering and contracting, agreement on final designStep 3: Pre-selection and training of up to 20 villagers (types of souvenirs and themes, handicraft, product quality, design, packaging), delivery of equipment and tools, each training lasts about 1-2weeksStep 4: Start with a small series (e.g. wooden monkey, other animals from the NP, or a model of a traditional wooden house which is typical for the area (for plugging together). Expected Outcomes: KKKNP typical souvenirs in high quality design Indicators: At least 4 souvenirs representing nature and wildlife of KKKNP are produced and packed by local minorities and are priced/ available in local shops or at the national park entrance buildings Beneficiaries: KKKNP Local communities

Remarks: Wood which is used for souvenir production should come from controlled plantations or (better) recycling wood. Another option is upcycling of other material (such as waste, which is collected from the area) for souvenir production.

Examples (made from waste/ fridge magnet/ textile upcycling, plastic bottles):                                                    Examples (made from wood):

[1] For de-centralised electricity generation only if a systemic project is proposed.

  • Thua Thien Hue Union of Science and Technology Associations (HUSTA)
  • 06 Phan Boi Chau, Vinh Ninh, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam
  • hodacthaihoang@husta.vn
  • +84234.3845091 – 3898871
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