Located between the Mekong and Stung Sen Rivers, the forest straddles four provinces (Preah Vihear, Kampong Thom, Kratie, and Stung Treng).
As a primary watershed it regulates water and sediment flow to the Tonlé Sap Basin and is an important spawning area for fish.
At present the forest covers an estimated 3,600 square kilometres (1,390 square miles) and is home to more than 20 endangered plant as well as 27 endangered animal species.
In a region known for new species discoveries as the latest WWF report, Mysterious Mekong illustrates there are undoubtedly a large number of as yet unknown and unique species populating the forest.
About 200,000 people, mostly indigenous Kuy (pronounced Koo-ie,) live in 339 villages in six districts in close proximity to the forest and as forest guardians are dependent on Prey Lang (‘Our Forest’ in the Kuy language) for their livelihoods, social and spiritual traditions.
Agribusiness plantations and mining operations are impacting on the forest including sensitive core areas. Illegal logging for timber, including luxury wood, is rampant.
Prey Lang is vital for Cambodia’s long-term environmental sustainability and peoples food and water security.