Community-Based Monitoring and Information System (CBMIS)

Empowering Communities to Protect Nature and Culture

As part of its commitment to inclusive conservation and Indigenous knowledge preservation, Youth Alliance for Environment (YAE) successfully implemented the Community-Based Monitoring and Information System (CBMIS) in 10 Indigenous and local communities across the Annapurna Conservation Area. This initiative was carried out under the SAINO Project with support from GEF-7, the Inclusive Conservation Initiative (ICI), and IUCN.

Project Locations:

Manang District: Khangsar, Thanchok, Taal

Mustang District: Thini, Syang, Chimang

Kaski District: Ulleri, Chhomrong

Lamjung District: Ghalegaun, Bhujung

CBMIS is a participatory tool that enables local and Indigenous communities to collect, analyze, and utilize data related to their natural resources, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. The system promotes local stewardship by putting communities at the center of monitoring efforts and decision-making processes.

Purpose and Objectives:

• Strengthening community ownership over natural resource governance
• Recognize and integrate Indigenous knowledge systems into conservation practices
• Generate localized, real-time data to inform sustainable resource management
• Support adaptive management of ecosystems under climate and socio-environmental pressures
• Build capacity among youth, women, and marginalized groups in data literacy and monitoring

Our Approach:

YAE facilitated the CBMIS process through:

• Capacity-building workshops and field training for community monitors
• Development of localized indicators based on traditional knowledge and community priorities
• Use of mapping tools, observation logs, and mobile-based data collection apps
• Regular data sharing, community validation meetings, and reflection sessions
• Integration of results into local planning and conservation dialogues

Key Achievements:

• Engaged over 1000 community members, with strong participation from women, youth, and Indigenous knowledge holders
• Documented key biodiversity species, water sources, land use changes, sacred sites, and climate impacts
• Informed local decision-making, resource use regulation, and climate adaptation plans
• Strengthened inter-generational transmission of Indigenous knowledge
• Created a foundation for community-driven data governance

Why CBMIS Matters:

CBMIS helps bridge the gap between local knowledge systems and national or global conservation frameworks. It empowers communities not just as beneficiaries but as leaders and knowledge holders, ensuring that conservation is culturally grounded, inclusive, and effective.

“With CBMIS, we’re not just observing change, we’re taking action to protect our land, our culture, and our future.”