WWF, one of the world's largest independent conservation organizations, has a global network active in 100 countries. From its Greater Mekong Programme Office in Hanoi, WWF manages a wide array of conservation projects in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Vietnam and Thailand in the forest, freshwater, marine/coastal and species priority areas.
The Grey-shanked Douc (Pygathrix cinerea) is endemic to Vietnam, occurring in only five provinces in the central region of the country. This species is classified as Critically Endangered (IUCN 2008) and considered one of the world’s 25 most threatened primates (Mittermeier et al 2007). Overexploitation (hunting) is the primary threat to doucs in Vietnam.
WWF and CI discovered the largest known population of Grey-shanked Douc (Pygathrix cinerea) within the proposed Central Quang Nam Species and Habitat Conservation Area in mid 2005. Que Phuoc represents a unique potential opportunity for ecotourism in Vietnam; the site holds a large population of a Globally Threatened charismatic primate, beautiful scenery and other trekking opportunities, less than 50km from the cultural town and tourist hotspot of Hoi An and less than 20km away from the My Son World Heritage Site. WWF are keen to determine whether community-based ecotourism could be established at this site, to provide protection for the Grey-shanked Doucs and financial benefits for local communities in the long-term.
WWF has been working with Quang Nam Province to establish the site as a protected area, however the area remains to be gazetted and hunting threatens the existence of the doucs. Local communities must be engaged in conservation efforts, to tackle hunting of Grey-shanked Doucs successfully. Considering the threat of hunting to doucs from outsiders, as well as from local community members, it will be essential to institute effective protection measures implemented by the local community members and Forest Protection Department. We therefore require an assessment of the current protection activities and impact of village patrol groups and for recommendations to be made as to how protection efforts can be improved at the site.
WWF Vietnam Country Programme is seeking an experienced and qualified local international consultant to fill the position of ECO-TOURISM CONSULTANT working for a WWF project in Quang Nam province.
Major duties and responsible:
The eco-tourism consultant will be responsible for conducting a feasibility assessment for establishing community-based eco-tourism at the site and evaluating the effectiveness of Village Patrol Teams (VPTs) in providing protection for the doucs. This will involve a trip to the field in Que Phuoc, Quang Nam and holding consultations with local community members.
The main qualifications required:
- A degree in a biological science or relevant experience
- Knowledge of community-based eco-tourism options and successful projects within the region
- Knowledge of Endangered species in Vietnam and current conservation efforts
- Understanding of community-based species protection systems
- Good English (writing and speaking) is required.
- Experience in ecotourism, and conducting eco-tourism feasibility assessments in the region
- Willingness to travel to remote locations, and work in Quang Nam province
- Team spirit and communication skills
- Familiarity with Vietnamese culture in the project area
- Computer (Word, Excel, Internet, Email)
Closing date for applications: Friday, 16th July, 2010 with interviews afterward.
Applicants should send their CVs and cover letters in English to Ms Thu Bui Hien, WWF Vietnam Country Programme. Email: [email protected] [1] or post to WWF Vietnam, D13 Thang Long International Village, Cau Giay District, Hanoi.
Only short-listed candidates will be notified. Interested candidate are invited to visit WWF websites: http://www.panda.org/greatermekong [2]