Gaurs were driven away to finally having disappeared. Local villagers said they have not seen gaurs at Khao Phaeng Ma for decades. In 1994 Wildlife Fund Thailand was granted permission by the Forestry Department to use Khao Phaeng Ma for its reforestation projet under the government reforestation project to mark the 50th anniversary of H.M. the King's ascension to the throne. The aim of the WFT's project is to return the Khao Phaeng Ma to its original status of watershed area. That is all the beginning of an important rehabilitation of forest and wildlife resources, as part of an overall forest recovery which means the return of wild animals.
Gaurs are able to finally reintegrate their former habitats.
In late 1995 the first herd of about 7 to 8 gaurs appeared at Khao Phaeng Ma. WFT started immediately after, its protection of the animals, through its ongoing reforestation project. and new subprojects to improve the habitats and feeding grounds for the animals including seeds planting and saltlick extension. A permanent service called gaur guard and watching for their security was also organized almost around the clock . They can be seen in Khao Phaeng Ma and some other nearby areas. WFT has witnessed the rebirth of this formerly hilly and degraded area of Khao Phaeng Ma, the fruit of its effort to rehabilitate the forest of this area.