HCV Assessment of Teso Nilo, Sumatra

The objective of the project was to identify any areas of HCVF within two timber concessions adjoining the proposed extended Teso Nilo National Park. APRIL plans to plant acacia within both concessions, but was concerned that areas of HCVF should be identified before any conversion activity took place.

The team investigated patterns of floral and faunal diversity, and use of the forest by local communities to identify areas of each concession that were consistent with the Indonesian HCVF Toolkit definitions of HCVF. They also considered the threats to the High Conservation Values presented by the forest conversion operations themselves, and the existing problems with illegal logging and poaching in the area. These factors led to the development of a conservation plan for the area that included the complete protection of some areas of forest and strategies to combat illegal logging and encroachment.