AOP Training in Phoutine Village Nalae District Luangnamtha Province

Participatory Forest Management in Phoutin Village, Nalae District, Luangnamtha Province

As part of the 2025 Annual Operational Plan (AOP), the Climate Protection through Avoided Deforestation (CliPAD) project collaborated with villagers and local authorities in Phoutin Village, Nalae District, to strengthen participatory forest governance and support the sustainable management of village forest resources.

During this activity consisted of forest patrolling, reviewing priority areas for protection, and worked with villagers to classify the forest into three designated types (protection, conservation, and production). This process helps clarify which areas require strict safeguarding, which are managed for biodiversity values, and which can be used for regulated community needs such as non-timber forest products. The activity also included hands-on demonstrations on forest fire prevention and discussions around long-term forest restoration and management measures.

Key outcomes of the activity include:

• Strengthened village awareness of forest functions and clear roles in protection and sustainable use
• Improved coordination between villagers, DAFO, and the CliPAD project on forest governance
• A shared understanding of fire risks and practical prevention strategies prior to the dry season
• A stronger basis for future restoration activities and village-level planning under the AOP

By combining community knowledge with technical support, Phoutin Village is taking important steps toward healthier forest ecosystems, reduced fire risks, and enhanced resiliencecontributing to Lao PDR’s climate commitments and long-term sustainable forest management goals.