National Park: Definition, Role, Function - Khoryfatul Munawaroh, S.Hut., M.Si

Summary

In this engaging lecture, Corey, a forestry engineering lecturer at Etera, introduces the concept of national parks, their role in conservation, and their zoning system. Focusing on the importance of natural conservation areas (KPA) and national parks (TN), Corey explains the core, jungle, and utilization zones, along with their significance in preserving biodiversity and supporting eco-tourism. He highlights the unique features of Wambas and Bukit Berisan Selatan National Parks in Lampong province, addressing conservation efforts, animal protection, and the critical role these parks play in safeguarding the environment.

Takeaways

• 😀 National parks are a type of natural conservation area (KPA) that focus on protecting ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring sustainable use of biological resources.
• 😀 A national park is managed using a zoning system that includes core zones, jungle zones, and utilization zones.
• 😀 The **Core Zone** is strictly protected, with no introduction of non-native species, ensuring the preservation of native flora and fauna.
• 😀 The **Jungle Zone** supports the core zone’s sustainability and can also be used to support the utilization zone.
• 😀 The **Utilization Zone** focuses on nature tourism and environmental education, aiming to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices.
• 😀 In Lampung Province, Indonesia, there are two national parks: Wambas National Park and Bukit Berisan Selatan National Park, each with its own unique conservation focus.
• 😀 National parks contribute to both conservation efforts and the economic welfare of local communities, creating a balance between nature preservation and community well-being.
• 😀 **Conservation** in national parks involves the careful management of natural resources to ensure their continued supply, while maintaining biodiversity and value.
• 😀 The difference between **deforestation** (permanent removal of forest cover) and **degradation** (reduction in forest quality) is crucial to understanding forest loss and impact.
• 😀 Wambas National Park features diverse ecosystems, including **mangrove forests**, which play a critical role in protecting the coastline, preventing seawater intrusion, and supporting wildlife habitats.
• 😀 National parks serve as centers for **research, education**, and **eco-tourism**, fostering public awareness of environmental issues while preserving essential ecosystems.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of natural conservation areas (KPA)?

Natural conservation areas (KPA) are designed to protect life support systems, preserve the diversity of plant and animal species, and ensure the sustainable use of natural biological resources and their ecosystems.

How does a national park relate to a natural conservation area?

A national park is a type of natural conservation area (KPA) that is managed with a zoning system. It is meant for research, science, education, and tourism, with a focus on preserving ecosystems and promoting sustainable use.

What are the four main zones within a national park?

The four main zones in a national park are the core zone (protected and no changes allowed), the jungle zone (supports the core zone's conservation and utilizes the resources for the utilization zone), the utilization zone (used for nature tourism and other environmental purposes), and other zones as necessary.

What is the function of the core zone in a national park?

The core zone is strictly protected and does not allow any changes, such as the introduction of non-native species. Its purpose is to maintain the original ecosystem without human intervention.

Can you name the two national parks in Lampung Province?

The two national parks in Lampung Province are Wambas National Park in East Lampung Regency and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park in Tanggamus Regency.

What role do national parks play in improving the local economy?

National parks can improve the local economy through eco-tourism, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable economic activities, which, in turn, encourages local communities to participate in conservation efforts.

What are the main animals conserved in Wambas National Park?

Wambas National Park is home to the conservation of Sumatran rhinos, Sumatran elephants, and Sumatran tigers.

What is the difference between deforestation and degradation?

Deforestation refers to the complete removal of forest cover, often for non-forest land uses like plantations or mining, leading to irreversible damage. Degradation refers to the decline in forest quality, such as through illegal logging or reduced biodiversity, but the area still remains classified as a forest.

What is the significance of the mangrove forest ecosystem in Wambas National Park?

The mangrove forest ecosystem in Wambas National Park protects the land from abrasion, prevents seawater intrusion, serves as a habitat for wildlife (especially birds), stores carbon, and acts as a natural barrier during tsunamis.

What are the key roles of national parks in general?

National parks play key roles in the conservation of flora and fauna, providing education and research opportunities, supporting the earth's life support system, and promoting eco-tourism to raise awareness about environmental conservation.