Date: October 12, 2023
Location: Kurseong

Nature and Wildlife Association was honored to participate in the inaugural programme organized by the Kurseong Forest Department for the implementation of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Scheme 2023–24 in tea gardens. This initiative involves the utilization of 10% of the sale proceeds from shade tree felling to support conflict mitigation efforts.

The event took place on 12th October 2023 at the Community Hall, Garidhura Bazar, under Kurseong Forest Division. It was graced by the presence of APCCF (North), CCF Hill Circle, DFO–Kurseong, ADFOs, Range Officers, forest staff, representatives from the Tea Association, Block Administration, and GTA members.

As part of this initiative, Quick Response Teams (QRTs) were formed for tea garden areas. Essential mitigation tools such as search lights, reflector jackets, and hand mic systems were distributed to the QRTs to aid in managing and reducing human-wildlife conflict incidents.

This commendable step by the Kurseong Forest Division marks a significant move towards co-existence and safety in human-dominated landscapes adjacent to forest areas.