What threats persist despite increased protection in the Cardamoms?

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Persistent Threats to the Cardamom Mountains Despite Enhanced Protection

Despite strengthened conservation efforts that have curbed some illegal activities, significant threats to the Cardamom Mountains ecosystem persist, primarily driven by infrastructure development and lingering poaching activities. While increased patrols have successfully reduced smaller encroachments and the incidence of poaching has notably decreased, the ongoing construction of infrastructure projects, particularly dams, continues to be a major driver of deforestation.
Ongoing Deforestation Due to Infrastructure Projects

Infrastructure development remains a paramount concern for the Cardamom Mountains' ecological integrity. Projects such as dam construction are cited as the primary reason for ongoing deforestation. This is evidenced by data from Global Forest Watch, which indicates that the Central Cardamom protected region alone has lost nearly 7,000 hectares of tree cover in the past five years.
Lingering Signs of Poaching

Although poaching has significantly waned, its remnants are still present within the protected areas. During a recent visit, a ranger discovered a portion of an old snare, a clear indication that poaching-related activities, even if reduced, have not been entirely eradicated. Enhanced patrolling efforts have been effective in curbing small-scale encroachments, suggesting a more controlled environment, but the presence of such remnants highlights the need for continued vigilance.
Scale of Tree Cover Loss

The impact of these persistent threats is quantifiable. The Central Cardamom protected region, a vital part of Cambodia's largest remaining intact rainforest, has experienced substantial tree cover loss. The nearly 7,000 hectares lost in the last five years underscore the ongoing pressure on this critical habitat, despite the conservation measures put in place.

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What threats persist despite increased protection in the Cardamoms?

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