Zoning Decree of Komodo National Park

Zoning is the division of land and sea areas within Komodo National Park (KNP) to manage the park’s natural resources, ecosystems, and visitor activities more effectively. The zoning system was established under the Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE) Decree No. 212/KSDAE/SET.3/KSA.0/11/2020, regulating the zoning of Komodo National Park in Manggarai Barat Regency, East Nusa Tenggara.

The main purpose of zoning is to protect ecosystems, safeguard wildlife habitat, and support sustainable conservation management across the park. Proper zoning ensures that each zone’s ecological function is maintained and human activities occur in harmony with nature.

Main Zoning Categories in Komodo National Park

According to the official zoning decree, the park is divided into the following major zones with their respective areas:

1. Core Zone – 34,304.81 ha
   This zone serves as the most strictly protected area where human access and interventions are minimal to preserve critical ecological processes
2. Wilderness Zone – 22,192.28 ha
   This area is protected with limited access, mainly for monitoring, conservation work, research, and controlled activities.
3. Special Zone – 313.09 ha
   Reserved for specific purposes such as scientific research or educational activities.
4. Utilization Zone – 2,408.23 ha
   Designed for responsible use including nature tourism and other sustainable activities that benefit both nature and local communities
5. Traditional Pelagic Use Zone – 59,601.00 ha
   A marine area where traditional pelagic activities like fishing by local communities are permitted.
6. Traditional Local Community Zone – 18,172.59 ha
   Allocated for traditional use areas where local communities can conduct non-extractive activities tied to their culture and livelihood.
7. Marine Protection Zone – 36,308.00 ha
   This zone focuses on preserving marine biodiversity, coral reefs, and underwater ecosystems.

Purpose of the Zoning System

The structured zoning system in Komodo National Park plays a vital role in guiding both conservation efforts and human activities by defining what activities are allowed in each zone so that the park’s ecological integrity remains protected

• Strict protection zones such as Core and Wilderness are essential for safeguarding wildlife habitats and ecological processes.
• Utilization and traditional use zones allow sustainable tourism and cultural practices that support local livelihoods without harming the environment.
• Marine protection zones ensure the health of marine ecosystems and support biodiversity conservation.

Conclusion

The zoning decree of Komodo National Park divides the area into strategic zones based on ecological function and conservation needs. This zonation framework enables park managers to balance environmental protection, sustainable tourism development, and traditional community use, making the park both a world-class conservation area and a responsible tourism destination.

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