Deepa Dahal

I am an environmental scientist with expertise in research, conservation, and policy, specializing in GIS and technology-driven solutions. I have experience with R for geospatial analysis, as well as proficiency in Google Earth Engine, enabling data-driven insights for environmental monitoring and sustainable development. My interests areas for working are agriculture, climate change and sustainability.

Passionate about engaged leadership, I design and implement innovative, community-based projects that generate measurable social and environmental impact.

Geo-Spatial Mapping & Policy Analyst Researcher (Volunteer – Remote) - Tiaki Taonga Trust - Wai 262 - Remote

(2026-01)

• Developing and maintaining GIS databases that track indigenous flora, fauna, and cultural heritage sites (wāhi tapu).
• Using mapping tools to monitor and protect biological resources and traditional knowledge related to the Wai 262 claim
• Researching and providing analysis on the Resource Management Act (RMA) and Te Tiriti o Waitangi to influence local and national policy.
• Submission Writing: Drafting evidence-based reports and submissions for government agencies to ensure Māori data sovereignty and land rights are upheld.

GIS Technician (Project-Based Roles) - Environmental, Culture, Agriculture, Research and Development Society Nepal (ECARDS-Nepal) - Nepal

(2023-01 - 2024-12)

• Conducted spatial trend analysis using 30-year environmental datasets from municipalities in Gorkha, Dolakha, and Siraha.
• Processed satellite imagery using SNAP and Google Earth Engine for environmental change detection.
• Performed hotspot analysis to identify significant land-use and environmental change patterns.

GIS Technician (Project-Based Roles) - Rural Oriented Youth Movement Nepal (ROYM Nepal) - Nepal

(2023-01 - 2024-12)

• Produced implementation maps for flood warning system installation in Tilathi Koiladi Rural Municipality, Saptari District.
• Identified optimal flood warning locations using spatial risk assessment and accessibility analysis.

GIS Technician (Project-Based Roles) - Chulachuli Rural Municipality, Ilam District - Nepal

(2023-01 - 2024-12)

• Conducted spatial analysis to identify potential plantation areas within community forests.
• Used NDVI and Digital Elevation Models to assess vegetation density, slope, aspect, and elevation suitability.
• Produced GIS-based land suitability maps for plantation planning.

Faculty (Part-Time) - Kathmandu Forestry College (KAFCOL) - Nepal

(2023-01 - 2025-12)

Teaching Areas: GIS, Remote Sensing, Spatial Analysis and Modelling

• Delivered lectures and practical tutorials in GIS and Remote Sensing applications.
• Facilitated student learning in spatial modelling and environmental simulations.
• Guided students in research projects related to climate adaptation, disaster management, and land-use change.

Program Coordinator (Full-Time) - Association for Rural Development (ARD) - Nepal

(2020-01 - 2023-12)

• Coordinated geospatial data collection and environmental field activities.
• Prepared GIS-based reports and spatial presentations supporting organisational decision-making.
• Utilized remote sensing techniques to analyse forest health, canopy cover, and land-use change.

Masters - Environmental Planning - University of Waikato

Masters - UNIGIS - University of Salzburg (2021-01 - 2023-12)

B.Sc. - Forestry - Tribhuvan University (2014-01 - 2018-12)