Officials from the Ministry of Environment, Battambang authorities, Fauna & Flora International (FFI), and development partners are assessing Phnom Sampov and Phnom Banan for potential listing as natural heritage sites. From July 7–8, officials and researchers surveyed the sites and met local communities. A 2024 biodiversity study revealed rich ecosystems, including globally threatened species like pangolins, hornbills, and silvered langurs. New species of geckos, snails, and skinks were also discovered, including a prehistoric land snail and three new gecko species unique to Battambang.

The limestone mountains also feature ancient Khmer temples and formations dating back over 250 million years. These areas attract tourists, especially for the “bat army” sunset spectacle, with local communities earning tens of thousands of dollars annually from guano harvesting. Authorities aim to promote the mountains as green ecotourism sites, emphasizing both biodiversity and cultural significance for future protection and sustainable development