Strengthening Community Engagement as a Pathway to Effective Forest Fire Management and Resilient Forests in Nepal

Forest ecosystems are indispensable for planetary health. They provide sustenance for around a quarter of global population. Forest fire is an important ecological disturbance; however, it can cause ecological and societal harm due to anthropogenic mismanagement and natural adversities leading to long-term socio-economic and environmental consequences. Extreme wildfire events have increased worldwide over the last decade, and events in Nepal are consistent with this trend. Nepalese forestry practices have already set an example of successful forest management through local stakeholder and community participation and thus demonstrate precedent in effective community mobilization. However, recent reports suggest declines in community participation in forest management process and overall weakening people-forest relationships. Here, we argue on why Nepal should work on strengthening its long legacy of people-forest interactions and how community engagement can support sustainable forest fire management. In our opinion, community led fire management is among the most viable approaches, with primary focus on preventive measures, i.e., reducing fuel loads in the forests. However, the Government of Nepal should provide clear policies and strategic frameworks to create such an environment where forest scientists, private sectors and non-profits can contribute to a national goal.