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An Inventory of Wetlands of the Lao P.D.R.
Compilation by Gordon Claridge
Wetlands play a very important role in the lives of the people
of Lao PDR. The majority of the population of 4,1 million live in
the wetland rich Mekong basin and are dependent on wetlands for
subsistence and income generation. In addition to freshwater fish
- the principal source of animal protein in the country - a wide
range of other wetland products are utilised. The waters of the
Mekong and its tributaries are also significant for hydro-power
generation and irrigation capacity.
This publication is a compilation of up-to-date information on
each wetland in the country. An overview of wetlands in Lao PDR
and management issues are also discussed in detail which will be
very useful to wetland planners and managers.
287pp, ISBN 2-8317-0319-0, 1996. Price: £13.50/US$20
Table of Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
Preface
Editors Note
Acknowledgements
Glossary
Part I: Introduction
Part II: Overview
The Lao PDR
Wetlands
Administration of Wetland Areas and Their Benefits
The Mekong Committee/Commission
Wetland Products
Fish
Non-fish Aquatic Protein Sources
Useful Aquatic Plants
Aquaculture
Production of Vegetables on Banks of Rivers and Streams
Wetlands as Economic Safety Nets
Wildlife/Biodiversity Conservation
Wildlife
Siamese Crocodiles
Otters
Birds
Trade in Wetland Wildlife
Protected Areas
Hydroelectric Power
Irrigation
Water Quality
References
Part III: Management Issues
The Approval Process for Major Developments
Environmental Impact Assessment
Management of Aquatic Resources
Lack of a Coherent Legislative Base
Management of Fisheries
Lack of Coordination of Environmental Responsibilities
Decline in Fish Stocks
Unsustainable Fishing Practices
Gill Nets
Blast Fishing Practices
Fishing with Poisons
Pumping Out of Wetlands
Inappropriate Use of Wing Traps
Introduction of Carp and Tilapia into Natural Wetlands
Wildlife Conservation
Hunting
Hunting of Migratory Waterbirds
Trade in Wetland Wildlife
Allocation of Title or Right of Use Over Wetlands and Wetland
Products
Community Management of Wetland Resources
Permanent and Seasonal Closures
Prohibitions or Limitations on Specific Harvest Techniques
Protection of Particular Species or Groups
Pha Nong
Hyropower; Weed Infestation
Use of DDT and Other Pesticides
Water Quality
Irrigation
Sedimentation
References
Part IV: Wetland sites
Mekong River
Nam Ngum Reservoir
Nam Houm Reservoir
Nam Souang Reservoir
Nam Ngum River Wetlands
That Luang/Salakham Marsh
Nong Chanh
Nong Nia (Nong Nga) (Paksane Area)
Nam Kadan Wetlands
Nam Sa Wetlands
Nam Thon Wetlands
Nam Hinbourn (Ban Hinboun to Ban Phahang)
Nam Theun (Nakai Plateau) Wetlands
Xe Bang Fai Wetlands
Nong Louang Wetland Group
Savanakhet Wetlands
Xe Champhon Wetlands
Xe Set Reservoir
Dong Hua Sao Wetlands
Nong Sam Wetlands
Bung Nong Ngom Wetland Group
Soukhoum Wetlands
Ban Takang Wetlands
Khone Falls (Seephandon) Wetlands
Paksong Wetlands
Upper Xe Namnoy Wetlands
Xe Kong Plains
Xe Pian - Xe Khampho Wetlands
Nong Patomkeen
Vangtat Wetlands
Part V: Annexes
Annex 1: Bibliography of Wetlands of the Lao PDR
Annex 2: Inventory Headings
Annex 3: A Revised Wetland Classification
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