It is hoped this project will lead to more open communication and collaboration between the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and the Republic of Korea (ROK) on the conservation of Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis) in both nations, and in particular the preservation of vital crane habitats in and near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the current wintering site of cranes that formerly wintered on the Anbyon Plain.

This project has its beginning through collaboration between Dr. Chong Jong Ryol of the Korean University, Tokyo, and Dr. Pak U Il of the State Academy of Sciences (SAS), Pyongyang.  Now the International Crane Foundation (ICF), BirdLife International (BI), SAS and Pisan Cooperative Farm of the DPRK hope to collaborate to restore Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis) as winter visitors on the Anbyon Plain (DPRK). Efforts will be made to attract the wild cranes, using captive cranes.   In exchange for farm equipment and training in organic farming techniques, the farmers have agreed to provide food for the cranes.  Concurrent with the restoration program for cranes, a comprehensive study of the avifauna of the Anbyon Plain will be undertaken, research we hope eventually leads to the restoration of riparian, grassland and forest habitats.