Authorities in Dolpa have decided to open high-altitude pastures for yarsagumba collection for one month starting May 24.

A meeting of stakeholders and political representatives held in the district headquarters, Dunai, on Tuesday, agreed to allow harvesting across all designated pastures. The meeting also endorsed a 12-point plan to regulate collection and improve management, said Bigyan Sen, acting chief of Shey Phoksundo National Park.

The park has introduced three categories of entry permits. Fees have been set at Rs500 for residents of buffer zones, Rs2,000 for Dolpa district residents, and Rs3,000 for outsiders.

To curb illegal early harvesting, authorities said security personnel, including Nepal Police and park staff, will be mobilised in coordination with local governments and community forest user groups.

The park has banned littering plastic waste, setting up tents outside designated areas, the use of prohibited tools or weapons, setting fire randomly, and digging pits during the collection period.

The administration has urged collectors travelling to high-altitude pastures to avoid activities that could disturb peace and security.

The Division Forest Office, Dolpa, said it will distribute awareness materials on sustainable harvesting and wildlife conservation, and deploy informants to prevent poaching and illegal trade.

Entry permits issued by community forest user groups and local units will require verification by authorised agencies to be valid. Authorities said monitoring of permit distribution will be tightened this year.

Health services will also be strengthened during the harvesting period, with medical teams mobilised in coordination with the District Public Health Office, district hospital, and local governments.

Officials said awareness campaigns will be conducted through the media to promote the sustainable collection and management of yarsagumba.