The Association of Community-Based Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation Nepal (ACABCN) is a non-profit organization committed to the preservation, restoration, and sustainable management of Nepal’s diverse and aquatic ecosystems. Our efforts are focused on safeguarding rivers, lakes, wetlands, and other freshwater habitats, ensuring the protection of aquatic species, and promoting responsible resource management practices that support both ecological balance and the livelihoods of local communities. Nepal is home to an incredible range of aquatic biodiversity, including numerous indigenous fish species, amphibians, and aquatic plants. However, these vital ecosystems face growing threats such as pollution, habitat destruction, climate change, overfishing, and unsustainable water management practices. The degradation of freshwater resources not only leads to the loss of biodiversity but also impacts the well-being of communities that depend on these ecosystems for livelihoods, agriculture, and clean water supply.
To contribute to the prosperity of Nepal by supporting the sustainable conservation of aquatic biodiversity, enhancing local livelihoods through sustainable fisheries, and supporting the achievement of Nepal’s sustainable development goals.
To conserve aquatic biodiversity and improve river health through community-driven, integrated watershed management. The organization aims to enhance the capacity of local communities, particularly through the establishment of Community Aquatic Animal Conservation Groups (CAACGs), to sustainably manage aquatic ecosystems in the Karnali Basin and beyond. Core Values: Sustainability: Promoting long-term ecological health of aquatic systems. Empowerment: Strengthening local governance and community-based conservation efforts. Collaboration: Partnering with local governments, communities, and stakeholders to ensure the successful management of aquatic biodiversity. Innovation: Integrating modern practices with traditional knowledge for effective biodiversity conservation.
o enhance the skills and knowledge of Community Aquatic Animal Conservation Groups (CAACGs) for effective aquatic biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries management. To promote the holistic management of watersheds in the Karnali Basin to improve river health and ecosystem services. To safeguard the rich aquatic biodiversity of Nepal's rivers and streams, particularly in the Karnali Basin. To encourage active participation of local communities in the management and protection of aquatic biodiversity. To enhance the productivity of traditional fisheries systems, gradually transitioning them into commercially viable and ecologically sustainable operations.
Expansion of CAACG Networks: To increase the number of Community Aquatic Animal Conservation Groups throughout Nepal, expanding the reach and impact of community-based conservation. Sustainable Fisheries Development: To further promote the commercialization of sustainable fisheries systems, enhancing both economic productivity and ecological health. National Policy Advocacy: To advocate for the development of stronger national policies and frameworks for aquatic biodiversity conservation and integrated watershed management.
Rivers have been only exploited till now, it has become too late to step out for conservation.
