Spread over an area of 260 km2, the Suleiman Range has the largest pure stand of Chilghoza pines in the world. In addition to serving as a critical habitat for the endemic Suleiman markhor, the forest is vital for local residents. 50,000 local residents earn at least part of their income either through the sale of Chilghoza seeds or through timber related activities. In view of threats to the forest, a pilot conservation initiative was started in the Balochistan part of the forest in 1992.

The success of the project led to a larger scale Integrated Conservation and Development Project, which focuses on raising community awareness, reducing the local dependence on forest resources through enhancing agricultural income and developing alternative income opportunities.

Ashiq Ahmad Khan, WWF - Pakistan
34-D/2 Sehzada Abdul Qayyum Road
University Town, Peshawar.
Tel: 0092-91-841593, Fax: 0092-91-841594.
wwfpsh@.brain.net.pk