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Preface Vietnam has 3260 km of coast, 2500 small an large rivers, thousands of natural and artificial reservoirs,… which create abundant and diversiform wetlands ecosystems. Wetlands, the ecosystem is diversified of many forms including from ponds, lakes, bogs, rivulets, rivers and streams,… to mangrove forest growing on alkaline muddy soil. Melaleuca forest growing on acid and alkaline soil, the coastal regions with fishing fields, seafood fields and coral reefs, ect. Which provide many kinds of forestry, agricultural, aquatic products with high economic value, water for living, agricultural and industrial production and which are also habitats, feed provision places for many species of wild animals, especially the water birth species including many rare and valuable species. The wetlands ecosystem also have meanings to the environment such as to make the climate equable, to stop waves and wind to prevent the edge of sea and rivers from erosion, to contribute to stable and enlarge coastal alluvial grounds. In many ;laces, it also has values in landscape, tourism, natural and gene sources conservation. Although the wetlands takes a very important role, but the public recognition in wetlands to plan the suitable and sustainable exploitation for these resources has not yet been reasonably considered, especially values in environment protection and biodiversity. In the “Action Plan for the Environment 2001-2005”, the mission to protect wetlands with high value in the biodiversity and environment protection was pressed. “Strategy for wetlands management and sustainable use” determined actions of priority. In order to give assistance to ministries, provinces to allocate wetland areas to be protected, National Environment Agency with its task as the national biodiversity management and also as a coordinate agency to implement the “Biodiversity Action Plan of Vietnam” cooperated with the Forest Inventory wetlands areas with high value in biodiversity and environment protection in whole country. The National Environment Agency (NEA) would like to express its deep gratitude to Forest Inventory and Planning Institute; IUCN’s Regional Biodiversity Programme, Asia; and The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) for the supports provided to the preparation and publication of this book.
Classification of wetlands in Vietnam
This classification is based on the Classification System for Wetland Types of Ramsar that was approved in the Recommendation 4.7 and revised in Decision VI.5 of the Commitment Conference of the Participant Parties. Note that this classification does not include those wetland types that do not occur in Vietnam.
A. Natural wetland: a.1. Coastal wetland: 1. Areas of shallow immersed with water depth less than 6 meters at ebb tide, including gulfs and straits. 2. Tide-flooded areas including tropical coastal grasslands. 3. Coral reefs. 4. Rocky coasts including rocky cliffs at the sea. 5. Pebbled, graveled, sandy seacoasts including sand strips, dunes, sandhills and capes with these included. 6. Water areas of estuaries, permanently flooded and elevated areas at estuaries. 7. Tide-flooded muddy areas, salted or sandy marshes. 8. Tide-flooded marshes, including saline marshes, saline land strips, saline dunes, fresh- or brackish-water marshes in the influence of the tide. 9. Water-logged lands with wetland forests including saline wetland forests, fresh-water forests influenced by the tide. 10. Coastal saline or brackish marshy and boggy areas and those with at least one watercourse to sea. 11. Coastal freshwater marshes including estuary marshes.
a.2. Inland wetlands: 12. Permanently flooded plain areas. 13. Rivers, streams, canals and small river branches with permanent water flows, including waterfalls. 14. Rivers, streams, canals and small river branches with seasonal or irregular water flows.
15. Permanent fresh-water conservers (lakes above 8 hectares in area) including large arc-shaped ones. 16. Season fresh water lakes (water-meadows) or impermanent lakes (above 8 hectares in area), including plain flooded lakes. 17. Permanent acid or saline or brackish lakes. 18. Water meadows or impermanent acid or saline or brackish marshes or lakes. 19. Permanently stagnant marshes or saline or brackish or acidic lakes and ponds. 20. Seasonal or impermanent stagnant marshes, lakes, ponds of saline, brackish or acidic water. 21. Stagnant lakes or ponds in mineral lands with their flora cover above their water surface at least in the season of growth. 22. Lakes or ponds in mineral lands including marshes, grasslands flooded only in certain season and seagrass areas. 23. Bare peat marshes, including also bare or bushy marshes. 24. High mountain wetlands, including mountainous grasslands, meadows. 25. Wetlands with bushes in predominance, bushy marshes, fresh-water marshes in mineral lands with bushes in predominance. 26. Freshwater areas, wetlands with woody trees in predominance including fresh-water marshes with forests, forests flooded in season, marshes with thick forests; mineral-rich lands. 27. Freshwater sources, oases. 28. Peat fields with forests, peat-marsh forests. 29. Hot springs. 30. Karst formations, underground caverns, caves with water.
B. Man-made wetland 31. Lakes, ponds for aquaculture (e.g. the shrimp, lobster, fish, etc.). 32. Lakes including cultivated ones, small water conservers (8 hectares or above in all). 33. Lands containing irrigation water including hydraulic canals and rice fields. 34. Cultivated lands flooded in season. 35. Salt fields, salted-water conservers and lakes, etc. 36. Water conservers, dams, water flooded areas of above 8 hectares in all.
37. Dug holes of all kinds as sites of gravel or sand extraction, quarrying, clay extraction for brick kilns, mining tunnels, etc. 38. Waste water conservers and cleaning bases, precipitation lakes, etc. 39. Artificial canals, drainage systems.
1. Hoa Binh Reservoir Geographical coordinates 20°00′ - 20°30′
North Latitudinal
103° 00′ - 106° 00′
East Longitudinal
Location The Reservoir locates itself most in the province of Hoa Binh, partly in couple of southern districts of Son La province. The lakes of Song Da - Hoa Binh as a whole stretch through 4 districts (Ha Bac, Ky Son, Tan Lac, Mai Chau) and a provincial chief town (Hoa Binh Town) of Hoa Binh province and territories of 5 districts of Son La province.
Area 72,800 hectares
Management unit -
Hoa Binh Lake Project Committee Provincial People's Committee of Hoa Binh Provincial People's Committees of Son La.
Objective of the region Hoa Binh Lake is a man-made conservoir that was built on Da River for hydraulic electricity in combination with regulation of Da River flood, reducing natural disasters threatening the downstream zones of Da River, namely the Red River Delta.
Altitude Ca. 100 meters asl.
Type of wetland 36
History of the region Hoa Binh Lake was formed in 1982 by accomplishment of building Hoa Binh Damp of 115-meter height, to stop Da River flow for electricity production.
Socio-economic value
The work is helpful in regulation of Da River floods, preventing the downstream areas of Da river (Red River Delta as the main object) from danger of natural disasters.
Ecologial and environment values Hoa Binh Lake is a work made for hydraulic power and water regulation of Da River, but is also an important agent in moderation of the climate and hydrography of environment in a large mountainous area, affecting river the downstream zones, especially Hanoi capital as the distance is not long.
Natural conditions Hoa Binh Lake area has common features of immense mountainous zones of the North-West Vietnam, with steep slopes and diverse types of svil and stone (magmas, deposits, demorphisms). In the Lake catchment basin, there remains little primitive forest, far greater part is secondary forest, all just covers only an area percentage of 21%. The soil is evidently eroded.
Climate Hoa Binh Lake is in a seasonal-rainy tropical zone, its average animal rainfall ranges from 1,800mm to 2,000mm. The average relative humidity is 82%. The mean yearly tamperature is 20oC (the highest - 40oC, the lowest 1,7oC). Yearly water flow into the lake is 54 billion cubic meters. In the dry season the water surface is 20,000 hectares against 250,000 hectares in the raining season. The area that functions as a wetland is 500,000 hectares.
Topography Hoa Binh Lake is nothing but Da River bed, which is very long, deep, narrow trough-like rift-valley, being 160 kilometers in length. The Lake is in a geographic region of abrupt rolling mountains and hills, with ranges after ranges of young limestone mountains in strong Karxt activities. The catchment area of the Lake is just the same of Da River, with the moutain range of Hoang Lien Son with height range of 3,143 - 2,000 meters, and on the other side are the ranges of Pu Sam Sung and Pu Si Lung (with mean height of 2,000 - 2,500 meters).
Flora and endangered plant species Endemic plants, which are very precious, such as aromatic altingia ( To Hap Huong), Fokienia tree (Pomou), Marbhamia pierrei, mahonia nepalensisi, Podocarpus neriifoiim (Thong tre), Chukrasia tabularis (Lat hoa).
Fauna and endangered animal species In Hoa Binh Lake there are many fish species: Common carp (Cyprinus carrpio), Crucian carp (Carassius auratus), silver crusian carp, river striped
snake-head (Ophiocephalus maculatus), pimelode (Ca nheo), catfish, hemibagrus elongatus, santal chub, erythroculter. Of land animals within the lake region, there are gray langur, white-cheeked black langur, marbled cat, wild cat, spotted leopard, asiatic bear, malaysian sun bear, serow (antelope), striped cat, lesser giant flying squirrel, red giant flying squirrel, black giant squirrel, peafowl, great hornbill, mandarin duck. Biodiversity resource of Hoa Binh Lake
(Data collected in the investigation of 1991, 1993 and 1996) Unit: species Group of
1991
animal/plant 1.
Mamal
Land
1993
*Lac.
Land
1996
*Lac.
Land
67
71
62
2.
Bird
221
219
197
3.
Reptile
51
46
41
4.
Amphibian
11
5.
Bentos
6.
Floating/Ephemeral
7.
Fish
8.
Endangered species
plant
19
11
14
14
14
*Lac.
14
11
14
17
61
67
69
94
98
103
27
29
Note: *Lac. = Lacustrine/Lake. Population The population of the part belonging to Hoa Binh province is ca. 40 people thousands, average density is 70 persons/km2, and the rest in Son La province is people ca. 60 thousands with the density of 40 persons/km2. The people are of 11 ethnic groups and living in needy conditions.
Land use Land use mode is very backward, having no conditions for intensive culture. Living generation after generation for a very long time in such a large area of abrupt rolling mountains, people have got the habit of clearing the forest for cultivated mountainside fields. When water rises high flooding their old mountainside fields, they advance upwards to clear up forests making new fields on higher mountainsides. In this way, they violate the existing forests to terrible extents. The local people around Hoa Binh Lake have only had little poor experience in agriculture, and especially, the fishery is still primitively simple.
Contamination and pollution Hoa Binh Lake is a man-made lake (conservoir) by stopping Da River. The aim of the work is electricity production and regulation of Da River floods, relieving natural disasters for downstream areas of Da River and Red River (the main target is Red River Delta).
Affecting impacts The community is living in pitiable poverty. As the lake has been newly made, for less than 2 decades, the living conditions for the local people, especially for those who had to evacuate from the areas for the present lakebed, have not been stabilized. Various complicated problems to solve have arisen in the cause of nature conservation, environment protection, ecology equilibrium conservation, rational use of natural resources, development of economy, etc.
Plants for future development Hoa Binh Lake calls for being registered as a national wetland reserve with adequate plans, projects for optimal social activities, efficacious scientific researches, wise use and long-term steady development.
2. Ba Be Lake
Geographical coordinates 22°24′ North Latitudinal 105°37′ East Longitudinal
Location The Lake is located in the district of Ba Be, province of Bac Can, ca. 18 kilometers from Cho Ra (the district town of Ba Be).
Area 450 hectares
Management unit - Management Committee of National Park of Ba Be - The District People's Committee of Ba Be
Type of wetland 13, 24
Description Ba Be is natural lake in an area of limestone mountains formed by tectonic activities of Karxt zones. The lake is 8 kilometers long and 0.8 kilometers wide with the least width of 0.2 kilometers, 17 -23 meters deep with the greatest depth of 2.9 meters. The lake is surrounded by ranges of limestone mountains with the height of 570 - 893 meters. The lake is connected with Nang River by a stream that regulates the water regime of the lake. The water flows into the lake in rainy season and circulates back in dry season. In the North-West of the lake, there occurs a waterfall with a slope of 10 meters and is of good fame for its beauty in such a limestone mountainous area. There are many caverns, grottoes, of them the most wot;1derful is the Grotto of Puong where the river Nang winds its course under the feet of limestone mountain ranges.
Altitude to the sea level 250- 300 meters asl.
Socio-economic value Regulating the water regime of the region. the lake is very important to the local people's life. The lake is of substantial importance in improvement of the regional climate and development of the forest. It is surely not long before tourist services are opened which will certainly give rise to the local people's income.
Forests and Flora Tropical rain forest are well developing in the lake surroundings, that makes the landscape so attractive to the tourist far and wide. There remain various tropical tree species like Excentrodendron hsienmu which grows in many places to form primitive forests.
Fauna and endangered species There live more than 100 species of bird and 30 species of mammal, which have been registered in the list. Of them, many species are endemic and endangered. The pheasant species of Lophura sp. And peacock species of Pavomuticus may still survive in this region. The sloth-monkey species of Nycticebus may also be the case. The lake has 17 natural species of fish, of these 4 are of economic value.
Land use Aquaculture has been performed to a limited extent. Tourist services are opened in the approaching time.
Influencing impacts The most dangerous threat in the region is the human pressure. The regulations for its nature protection has been announced, but has not come into practical force. It is necessary to bring the regulations into force along with advancing the education of environment protection in the local communities.
Management and Protection For Ba Be is the unique lake occurring on high moutian area, both its Fauna and Flora are very specific, and so, of national importance. That is why the Government decided to establish. The Ba Be National Park as far back as 1986 in order to protect these valuable sources in time. Logging, hunting and any other activities that make damages to the regional nature are all strictly forbidden.
3. Thac Ba Lake Geographical coordinates 21°41′40'' - 22o05' North Latitudinal 104° 45′
- 105o03'
East Longitudinal
Location Thac Ba Lake is on the south-eastern part of Yen Binh district, Yen Bai province, 12 kilometers from the provincial town of Yen Bai and 1 kilometer from the district town of Yen Binh.
Area 19,050 hectares
Management unit Provincial People's Committee of Yen Bai
Objective of the region The lake is of great importance in supplying water for hydraulic electricity production, agricultural irrigation and people's daily life.
Description Thac Ba Lake is 80 kilometers long and 1 - 8 kilometers wide with a circumference of 629 kilometers. The water volume (capacity) is 3 billion cubic meters. There are 1,300 bigger and smaller isles in the territory of the two districts of Yen Binh and Luc Yen.
Altitude 58 meters asl.
Type of wetland 36
History of the region Thac Ba Lake was formed in late 1970, when a damp was uilt for the hydraulic energy plant of Thac Ba.
Value of socio-economic Yearly yield of fish is 55 tones/year
Environmental and ecological value This is a well known site for tourism for its beautiful sight. Yearly, it attracts thousands of tourists.
The importance to regional wild animals Thac Ba is the rest place favourable for various kinds of migratory bird.
Natural conditions Climate Tropical, hot and humid. The weather varies with seasons. Rainy season lasts from April to October, dry season is from October to March of next year when the air is drier, cooler or cold.
Hydrography Chay river is the principal river of the region and is connected with Thac Ba Lake by a dense network of streams, rivulets, brooks. Chay River has a yearly water volume of 6.3 billion cubic meters and an average flow rate of 190m3/s, and surface flow rate of 25 - 30 liters/s/km2.
Land formation (Geology) Most common is that the mean mountain feralite dust, low moutain brownish feralite and orange feralite dust developed on gnite and schist matrices.
Topography Thac Ba Lake is in a height transient area from higher to middle to lower moutains affected by the catchment areas of Chay River with average slope of 250.
Water quality: Good Temperature: Mean temperature: 22 - 23OC, In hot season:
29 - 32oC,
In cold season:
12 - 15oC.
Flora and forests Forest area: 29,923 hectares Area of planted forest: 7,455 hectares of protection forests 9,744 hectares of production forests.
Land use Hydraulic energy production, agriculture irrigation, forestry (forest planting), fishery.
Fishery Upper (surface) water fishery Fishing with explosive has been committed.
Influencing impacts According to the investigation results by National Institute of Geology, the lifetime of the Thac Ba Lake has 73 - 78 years left against 150 years as originally designed. Hydroelectric Plant of Thac Ba has operated since 1971 with designed capacity of 120,000kw/h at the ordinary water level of ca. 58m. In fact, of over 20 years of operation, with water level irregularly full of ups and downs, it was for more than 10 years, the plant had to operate below the dead water level (46m). To produce 1kw/h of electricity it needs only a volume of 9m3 at ordinarily sufficient levels, but 16 - 17m3 at the lower. Such a variaton of the water surface area exerts much influence on the regional agriculture and people's life.
Management and protection The local authorities have taken measures to prevent and to stop destruction of watershed forests.
Plans for future development In 1996 the Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Developent of Yen Bai has submitted a project for investment and construction of protection forests around Thac Ba Lake.
4. Nui Coc Lake
Geographical coordinates 21033’ - 21037’ 105046’
North latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location Nui Coc Lake is situated most in Dai Tu district, partly inThai Nguyen City and Dinh Hoa district. It is 15 kilometers far from the center of Thai Nguyen city.
Area - At overflowing level
(41.2 meters):
1.500 hectares
- At the highest flood level (46.2 meters) 2.600 hectares - At the dead level
(934 meters) 500 hectares.
Management Unit - Hydraulic Agency of Nui Coc (Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Thai Nguyen). - Aquaproduct Enterprise Company. - Municipal People’s Committee of Thai Nguyen City. - District People’s Committee of Dai Tu. - District People’s Committee of Pho Yen.
Objectives of the region Nui Coc lake is the greatest hydroelectric work of Thai Nguyen province, which also serves to reserve water for irrigating water-rice fields of the districts of Pho Yen, Phu Binh and the town of Song Cong (Cong River Town) and supplying water to daily-life, and to the Steel Industry Center of Thai Nguyen. In addition, Nui Coc activities is a favourable tourism and resort place for people from all parts of the country.
Description Nui Coc Reservoir was built in 1971 on Cong River which originates from the mountains of Tam Dao, flows into Cau River, continues its course downwards to converge with the Red River in the North Vietnam Plain. The riparian region
of Nui Coc Reservoir is areas with dense bushes or secondary forests. As a rule, the catchment areas of Cong River are considered as that of Nui Coc Reservoir, so it has large riverhead areas of permanent green forests.
Altitude 34 - 41.2 meters asl.
Type of wetland 36 History Nui Coc Reservoir was built since 1971 on the Decision 324 dated 16th November 1971 and started to operate in 1978. It composes of a main damp and 7 accessory ones. The total capacity (volume) of the lake is 210,000,000 m3.
Socio economical value. Hydraulically, Nui Coc Lake waters 13.000 hectares of agriculture land. Recently, some estates of tourism service, resort and entertainment have been formed around the lake and in development, to welcome tourists of the local provinces, Ha Noi and others from the whole country. Annual aquatic productivity amounts to 150 tones, most is fish like the common carp, amur grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus), snail carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), Bighead carp (Aristichthys nobilis), etc. With a water volume of 200 million cubic meters and surface of 2,000 hectares the aquatic benefit of Nui Coc Lake is of high economical value to the region. Around the lake, there have been three tourist estates and resorts, that are Cong Doan (Labour Union), Quan Doi (Army) and Phuong Nam.
Value of nature and environment. Nui Coc Lake is an important site of tourism and beautiful sight of Thai Nguyen province as a close neighbour to Ha Noi. It has played an essential role in society ad economy structure transformation of Thai Nguyen city, its suburban areas and Thai Nguyen province as well.
Importance to regional wild animals Nui Coc Lake is the rest place for various kinds of migratory bird. In its riparian areas live numerous wild forest animals. The aquatic living population is rich in both species and individual number, especially fishes of economic value which multiply so rapidly. It is possible to build rest places for birds (bird parks) on isles of the lake.
Natural conditions. Nui Coc Lake is within a seasonal-rainy zones with average annual precipitate of 2000 mm, annual mean temperature is 23.2 0C; Annual average humidity is 82%.
Climate: The region is entirely in a monsoon tropical zone. Average annual precipitate is 2.000 mm.
Temperature and humidity: - Annual mean temperature:
22 0C.
- Annual evaporated amount (water): 782 mm./year. - Evaporation rate:
39%
- Average humidity:
85%
- Sunny and rainy time
1586 h./year.
Hydrography: Average annual total water flow coming to its catchment: 522,106 m3.
Land information The land here was formed mainly by developing on stone, schist and acid magma matrices.
Forests and Flora Before Nui Coc Lake came to life, the cover of stunt bushy plants, poor or mean secondary forests along the river were much affected. The most part of endemic plants are composed of rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Sim), Melastoma candidum (Mua), Cratoxylon nervosum (Nganh). Since Nui Coc Lake formed, especially when the Government has had programs to support the province of Thai Nguyen and the local districts to plant trees and reforest the lands making new "green cover"' on bare hills and mountains. ln order to have protection forests for the lake. Nowadays, the environmental ecology is in tendency of fair restoration and improvement.
As a man-made Reservoir, its lifetime has just been less than 20 years, the aqua-biotic population has not been desirably rich yet. Fauna, Species of high value, Species in danger of extinction In the lake, there are some bird colonies, which serve as dwelling places for waterbirds and rest places for migratory birds in Winter. There are 40 species of birds and 15 species of mammal. Notable is that some
kinds of wild ducks coming to Nui Coc Lake in Winter as spot-billed duck (Anaspoecilorhynchos) lndian whistling duck (Dendrocygna javanica), green-winged teal (Anas crecca), northern pintail (Anas acuta), chinese pond heron (Ardeola bachus), and various Egretta sp. Population The most population part is following ethnic groups: Tay, Cao Lan, Dao. . .
Land use Designed water capacity is 177 million cubic meters.
Influencing impacts Nui Coc Lake is in danger of being deposited shortening its lifetime. The cause is that the vegetation covers are damaged and the catchment areas of Cong River are eroded.
Protection and conservation. There have been no plans for conservation of the region.
Other problems Nui Coc Lake needs be called for practicable plans for protection of it as a wetland conservation and feasibility for development of ecological tourism, weekend outings. At the present, there have been some states of resort, camps for literature writing and arts creation, but it lacks effective measures for protection, conservation and steady development of this special wetland in such a mountaineous region.
5 Chu Lake
Geographical coordinates 21°36′
North Latitudinal; 104°54′
East Longitudinal
Location In a midland region of the North Vietnam Thanh Hoa district, Phu Tho province
Area Average area of the water surface is 300 hectares
Type of wetland 15
Altitude 30 meters sal.
Management unit The district People’s Committee of Thanh Hoa. Given in tenancy to the inhabitants around the lake for exploitation of its aquatic and hydraulic benefits.
Objectives of the region Aquaculture and hydraulic use.
Description Chu Lake belongs to the wetland type that is middle-sized, located in a midland area, its fresh water is gathered by the convergence of the two streams of Van and Thoi flowing to the river of Thao. Around the lake are hills and fields used for water rice culture, with many old inhabited places of high population, of which Kinh is the greatest ethnic group.
History of the region Chu Lake was formed by course changes of Thao River (the passage of the Red River from Viet Tri to Lao Cai) and bank breaks by floods.
Socio – economic value
Natural conditions of the lake are suitable for lots of aquatic animals and plants to live (fish, shrimp, tortoise, tiger frog etc. which are economic aquatic products with annual total yield of ca. 10 tones). Around the lake, there are no forests but systems of gardens and farms of perennial trees like tea, palm and lacquer … beside systems of water ride fields. This agricultural vegetation makes fair contributions to the land protection, Nature Reserve and establishment of an ecological system favourable for the regional environment of the lake.
Land use In dry season, water level is low, water surface area of the lake is reduced to be ca. 200 hectares, pieces of land appear on the bed of the lake where local people takes time and advantage to grow some short-lived foodstuff plants as green vegetable, bean, sweet potato, etc. In dry season the water is used for irrigation of large field areas.
Influencing impacts The lake of Chu finds itself in a hilly countryside, where is occurring acidification and lateritization of the soil. The soil erosion degree is not so high, but the amount of agricultural wasted matters (sty, green manure, chemical fertilizer, pesticides, plant-protection chemicals, etc.) alter much the composition and quality of the water in the lake. As the lake circulates with Thao River, the water contamination has not appeared clearly at all. For the lake has not received any adequate investments, its biodiversity has not been properly protected, and therefore, gradually decreased. especially the source of fish and shrimp is becoming exhaustive. The waterbird population has the same fate.
Management and protection There is no environmental programs nor plans for steady management and protection of the optimal ecological system, the biodiversity, regional climate regulation, aquatic interest of the lake in such a midland area. It is necessary to raise measures for Nature Reserve in this valuable wetland region.
6. Chinh Cong Lake
Geographical coordinats 21°31′
North Latitudinal
105°05′
East Longitudinal
Location In a midland region of the North Vietnam like Chu Lake (above) District of former Thanh Ba, present Thanh Hoa, Phu Tho province.
Area In the raining season, the average area is 400 hectares.
Type of wetland 15
Management unit The district People’s Committee is in charge, who in cooperation with the authorities of lake-surrounding communes, gives tenancy of the lake to local people for use and exploitation of the lake.
Description The lake has evident traces (geomorphological vestiges) showing its formation due to course changes of ancient winding rivers by force of wild floods, leaving cut-off stagnant lengths of river to become lakes or marshes. The lake is bound by low hills, hillocks and rice fields.
Altitude Ca. 20 meters asl.
History of the region The streams of Ca and Ky are main water sources of the lake. In rainy season, the lake is provided with water rich in alluvial deposited from Thao River which runs following the canals or overflowing banks and damps.
Economic value Around the lake are fields of intensive agriculture. The soils here are less eroded than in the region of Chu Lake. The influence of social factors and
economical conditions of the region to the lake are nearly the same as those to Chu Lake.
Value of natural environment and regional ecology The aqua-biotic population of Chinh Cong Lake, including both animals and plants, is the same as of Chu Lake, except it consists of more lotus and water lily plants and has a greater number of aquatic plant species. There are many fish species of high economic value (as the carp, pike, mullet, gudgeon, etc.) in the lake. Here flock numerous birds of various kinds as teal, wild duck, seagull, etc.
Importance to the regional wild animals The most important thing is that, dependently on the seasons, different kinds of migratory waterbirds come to Chinh Cong Lake. Among these are teal, wild duck, greyleg goose and pelican.
Natural conditions Hydrographics: There are two small streams, named Ca and Ky, that flow to the lake and have also currents to Thao River.
Water quality: Good Land use In the dry season, some pieces of land elevate from the lake bed and local inhabitants take advantage to cultivate some short-lived plants.
Influent impacts The benefit source of biodiversity and natural environment is reduced rapidly.
Other problems Conditions necessary for the cause of Nature Reserve in Chinh Cong Lake are the same as in Chu Lake.
7. Vac Marsh
Geographical coordinates 21°18′
North Latitudinal
105°36′
East Longitudinal
Location Marsh Vac is in the center of the town of Vinh Yen, the capital town of Vinh Phuc province, which has common geographic border with the Red River Delta.
Area At the mean water level, the area of the marsh is ca. 250 hectares.
Objectives of the region Aquaculture and irrigation
Description Marsh Vac is a kind of natural lake that was formed in the same way as Chu Lake, Chinh Cong Lake. However, it is notable that Marsh Vac is shallower and has more species of aquatic plants, especially lotus, water lily, scimitar-leaf aroid. This is the reason why the lake ahs been named “marsh”, according to the Vietnamese traditional classification which gave the name “marsh” to those wetland places wilder and more abundant in wild waterbirds. In history, Chu Lake and Chinh Cong lake were also named “marsh”, Chu Marsh and Chinh Cong Marsh like Vac Marsh. These were all formed by old winding sections of ancient rivers that changed their courses in high floods leaving their curved sections cut off and closed to be marshes and lakes. Vac Marsh is in the mid land of the North Vietnam.
Altitude to the sea level Ca. 10 meters
History of the region Vac Marsh was formed as an old river section cut in its course changing. The lake is supplied with water from the mountain range of Tam Dao by the rivers Ca Lo and Cau Bon. The lake also circulates to the Red River, but the currents are so little that the lake is considered to be stagnant.
Socio-economic value of the region Vac Marsh is in a region with the center of an old provincial town and bounded by many communes of high population, adjacent to the Red River Delta, which has become long inhabited lands of Kinh people. The people have made use of Vac Marsh for aquatic products, hydraulic capacity, environmental beauty, local transportation. The system of rice fields, perennial-tree farms and gardens around the Vac Marsh has taken shape for a very long time. Through many feudal dynasties, the marsh was a famous site of travelling and sightseeing for kings, lords, mandarins, artiests and literati. In the French colonial time, many rest houses of French colonialists and Vietnamese rich men were built around the marsh in combination with those on mountainous region of Tam Dao of Vinh Yen province. Since 1954, the Government as well as the local authorities have continued to estimate and determine the lake in view of economy, ecological environment, and furthermore, carry out programs, effect. Various establishments for health refreshment and entertainment, schools and research centers have been built in the region. In fact, Vac Marsh has been planned as a place for rest, resort and tourism. Annual yield of fish is 50 tones.
Value of natural environment and regional ecology In general due attention has always been paid to Vac Marsh in view of Nature Reserve and environment protection, for that, it is hardly contaminaited nor seriously affected by harmful factors and agents.
Importance to regional wild animals The community of aquatic living beings in Vac Marsh is of more diverse variety than other lakes with the same set of natural conditions.
Other problems It is the special position and bounty biodiversity of the lake that makes it deserve timely projects for overall building and reforming the lake to be a beautiful-sight wetland for it serves as an admirable site for resort, tourism on one hand, and functions as a powerful conservation area of typical nature, regional ecology and humanity, on the other hand.
8. Cam Son Lake
Geographical coordinates 21032’ 106034’
North latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location Cam Son Lake is in the district of Luc Ngan, province of Bac Giang, exactly in the North of the district, 15 kilometers northwards from the district town of Luc Ngan.
Area The area of water surface at the mean water level is 2,620 hectares.
Management Unit The District People’Committee of Luc Ngan
Objectives of the region Cam Son Lake is used for agricultural irrigation, hydroelectric production and aquaculture.
Description Cam Son Lake is one of the largest lakes in middle lands, with a size of 15 km in width and 30 km in length, surrounded by low hills and hillocks of their height of ca. 300 m above the sea level. Cam Son Lake was supplied with water collected from its North-West riverhead catchment areas. Cam Son Lake has a capacity volume of 250 cubic meters of water. In its South-East there are larger areas of water-rice culture and fertile hillside, mountainside agricultural fields. 10 years before the formation of Cam Son Lake, the catchment areas of Hoa River were covered with many large forests. However, later on, especially since Cam Son Lake was built, these forests have been alarmingly destroyed by excessive logging (remarkably, on the occasion of clearing up the areas for the present lakebed) for wood (timber), firewood and for agricultural fields.
Altitude 100 - 300 m asl.
Type of wetland 36 History of the region Cam Son Lake is a man-made Reservoir formed in 1960 by building the damp stopping the flow of Hoa River.
Socio-economic value to the region Cam Son Lake plays an important role in this midland region, for it is the only water source for agricultural irrigation, hydroelectric power, aquaculture and environment improvement. Average annual yield of fish is ca.70kg/hectares, and hydroelectricity capacity is 4,500 kW.
Importance to regional wild animals. Cam Son Lake is a good rest place for migratory birds in Winter and the habitat for many local kinds of riparian and lacustrine fishes. In Cam Son Lake region there are rare endemic birds, but no migratory birds that come from the farmost zones.
Natural conditions. Cam Son Lake is in a monsoon tropical zone with: - Average annual precipitate is 1,4000 mm. - Annual mean temperature is 220C and - Humidity varying in range of 60 - 70%.
Forests and Flora Secondary forests with bushy plants are in limited extents. Upstream forests have so seriously disappeared that though the soils are gravely eroded even in case the rains are not heavy, the land fertility is decreased day by day, and the laterization is more and more notable. Sporadical on the lake surrounding hills are bushy clearings and some plots of secondary forests, which are unfortunately poor and stunted. The riparian vegetation on the lake banks and at its water edges hardly exists. The environment is appealing for protection.
Population Population density is low, ca. 40 persons/km2.
Land use Agriculture is performed on hillsides and in narrow valleys. Its needs protection and stable hydraulic irrigation.
Influencing impacts It is most worth anxiety is that fishing with toxic chemicals and poisonous substances as well as mineral mining have caused serious damages to the aquatic bio-resources of the lake. The exploitation on the lake catchment and Cam Son lakebed is in such an extent that its natural resources tend to be exhaustive and exterminate various precious endemic species. Numerous species of fish and shrimp, that Hoa River and its network of springs and streams have been once abundant, are now rapidly depleted of, even threatened to be extinct.
Protection and management Cam Son Lake has been under the management of the district people’s committee of Luc Ngan. However, it has had no effective programs nor action plans for nature protection and steady environment conservation of Cam Son Lake.
Other problems. Nature and environment resources are now exhausted. Due to the largeness, position and function of Cam Son Lake in association with many biogeographical factors of the whole midland region of Luc Ngan, the importance of Cam Son to the region is so great that it calls for urgent measures for rescue favourable conditions for agriculture of the region and life of the local community.
9. Dong Mo - Ngai Son Lake
Geographical coordinates 21005’
North latitudinal
105027’
East Longitudinal
Location The Lake of Dong Mo - Ngai Son belongs to the Provincial Town of Son Tay, Province of Son Tay, on a midland area adjacent to Mountain feet of Ba Vi, Northwards from Ha Noi.
Area Average water surface area is 900 hectares.
Management Unit Dong Mo Lake is under the management of three units. Hydraulic irrigation is managed by the District Company of Hydraulics, the aquaculture and fishery by the District Company of Aquaproducts and Tourist services by the District Company of Tourism.
Objectives of the region Dong Mo Lake functions as a conservoir for agricultural irrigation of downstream fields.
Description The local people usually referred to the Lake as Dong Mo - Ngai Son Lake as the flow-stopping damp stretches through the two villages of Dong Mo and Ngai Son. Dong Mo is a man-made conservoir by a damp that stops three main streams named Dong Mo, Dong Lo and Ngai Son, which flow from the SouthEast sides of Ba Vi mountains. The capacity volume of Dong Mo Lake is 73 million cubic meters. In the lake, there are 16 isles (which formly are hills and hillocks) with a total area of 100 hectares. Water source from Ba Vi mountains which expand as far as the provincial boundary with Hoa Binh province, with mean permanently green forests of 1000 hectares in area. However, on the midland area including the outside sides, feet of the mountains extending to the lake there are hardly natural forests. Around the
lake is a statem cow-rearing farm (since 1960) spotted with many old-settled villagers, which live on culture of water-rice and other plants on mountainsides. The population density is 50 - 70 persons/km2.
Altitude 18 meters asl.
Type of wetland 36 History The damp of Dong Mo - Ngai Son was built in 1971 on the purpose of agricultural irrigation and aquaculture.
Socio-economic value The principle income is aquacultured bulk of shrimps and fishes with an average annual yield of 110 - 140 tones, but in gradually decreasing tendency.
Importance to regional wild animals Dong Mo Lake is a good rest place for migratory birds in Winter.
Natural conditions - Annual mean temperature is
23.50C.
- Average annual precipitate is
2.678 mm/year.
- Mean humidity is
84%.
Land use A greater part of the pasture lands of the state-run farm on West and South-West sides of Dong Mo Lake have been given to the local community in tenancy and are now used mainly for development of perennial fruit trees. This has made much positive contribution to the improvement of the local people’s life and the regional environment around the lake. Dong Mo Lake is used for aquaculture, agriculture irrigation and tourist business.
Influencing impacts. Alluvial deposits are much, because, as for the lake catchment areas the watershed protection forests have been excessively exploited with little left, whereas the planted secondary forests are still so poor. Aquaculture is simply throwing fry, without any intensive culture measures nor special techniques, so the yield is very low. The land use by the local people is not rational yet.
Other problems Since 1992, Dong Mo Lake has been planned to be a tourist site with Golf grounds (Joint venture with foreign investors). Later on, a plan have been worked out for overall development of the lake (1995 - 1996), which has been approved by the Government, aiming at development of tourism, entertainment, weekend outing, traditional village culture, hydraulics, aquaculture. Investment has come for implementing the plan item by item. With the above-mentioned functions and aims of environment-culture tourism, gaining the highest total socio-economic value (Hydraulics, aquaproduct, landscape) and environmental protection, Dong Mo Lake needs suitable scientific programs to protect and make rational advantage of this wetland region. As planned, in early 2000, this region is a center of universities (National University), research institutes and education-training schools of technologies. The optimal ecological system of this wetland will surely play an important role in the region environment and scenery.
10. Suoi Hai Lake
Geographical coordinates 21007’40’’ - 21025’50’’
North latitudinal
105027’30’’ - 105025’50’’ East Longitudinal
Location Suoi Hai Lake is in the South-Western part of Ba Vi district, Ha Tay province, 6 kilometers from the provincial town of Son Tay.
Management unit District People’s Committee of Ba Vi
Objective of the region Agricultural irrigation, flood draining, aquaculture and tourism.
Description On the North-Western bank of the lake are low hills, whereas in its SouthWest are forests and mountains. The mean depth is 8 - 9 meters with the greatest of 12 meters. The capacity volume is 42 million cubic meters. The lake readily ebbs nearly to dryness in dry seasons.
Altitude 20 - 30 meters asl.
Type of wetland 36
History of the region The mountains of Ba Vi is the riverhead catchment area of Suoi Hai Lake. Besides, there are many streams flowing to the lake as Quynh, Cau Tau, Cham Soi. The damp of Suoi Hai was built as far back as 1958.
Socio-economic value Suoi Hai Lake is important to the local people’s life for it is useful in agricultural watering, aquaculture, improvement of region environment, and serves as a place for health refreshment and entertainment.
Importance to regional wild animals Suoi Hai Lake is a rest place for winter migratory birds, of them 59 species have been recorded.
Land use The principle use of Suoi Hai Lake is aquaculture and water supply for aquaculture irrigation. Annual yield of fish is 60 tones/hectare. Its riparian lands are cultivated fields or hills and hillocks covered with bushes and grasses.
Influencing impacts Now, a great population of eucalyptus trees are planted on large areas around the lake, of which dead leaves are supposed to have exerted negative influences on the lake. This, as stated by aquaculture experts from the Ha Tay provincial department of aquaproduct, may be the cause of the increase in amount of organic dust and humus of the lakebed.
Management and Protection. The aim is to maintain the normal water level for aquaculture, tourism development and as place for the health refreshment, entertainment for the local people, as well as for improvement of natural environment.
Dossier - 15
11. West Lake Geographical coordinates 21°04′
North Latitudinal
105° 50′
East Longitudinal
Location West Lake is located on the West of Ha Noi capital, in the urban district of Tay Ho. It is bordered by the dike of Yen Phu - Tu Liem in the North, road of Thuy Khue in the South, street of Thanh Nien in the East, street of Lac Long Quan in the West. West Lake has its common borders with five wards of Tay Ho district, that are Yen Phu, Thuy Khue, Buoi, Xuan La, Nhat Tan, Quang An.
Area 526 hectares
Management unit Ha Noi Department of Science, Technology and Rural Development through Ha Noi Agency for Investment and Exploitation of West Lake.
Type of wetland 15
Description The lake has a circumference of 18,967 meters, largest width of 3,272 meters falls in the direction of Xuan La orifice - Thanh Nien street, and the least of 764,8 meters from Vong Thi to Phu Tay Ho (the Great Mother's Temple of Tay Ho). The lake is deepest in its center with a depth of 2,8 meters.
Objective of West Lake West lake has been a picturesque natural sight for a very long time, defined to be a key point in programming and planning the capital development.
Altitude 6 meters asl
History
The ancient river of Nhi Ha, on its course running to Yen Ha - Hai Boi, changed its way flowing across Tam Xa toward Su (Phu Thuong), creating an ear of Nhi Ha River with West Lake being, its helix, Yen Phu - Nghi Tam its earlobe. The name Nhi Ha (River of Ears) stemmed from the occurrence of ear-like windings of the West Lake type. Such ear-like lakes are described to be formed in the way that the river flows tend primarily to make short-cut straight courses, thus leave windings, later those windings that are bounty in alluvial matters will be closed by deposit and turned to lakes of the type. Formed thousands of years ago from a cut-off length of the ancient Red river, West Lake is very time-honored, and in its history of existence, West Lake has had various legendary and historic names such as Dam Dam (Foggy Lake), Lang Bac (Port of Waves), Xac Cao (Fox Body Lake), Trau Vang (Golden Buffalo Lake).
Socio-economic value With a water volume of ca. 9 million meters, West Lake is essentially important to the life of people around it, especially in agriculture: regulating hydraulic regime, watering the farms, gardens of flowers and ornamental plants which assure sufficient supply of fresh flowers to the Capital, especially of peach flower, tangerine and other ornamental plants in the Vietnam traditional Tet (Lunar New Year's day). Aquaculture in West Lake dated back very long ago. At the present, aquaculture is still one of the most important objectives of West Lake due to its great economic value and its substantial contribution to water purification. Yearly, it needs just a fry mass of 3 - 5 millions. Good protection is required to have good catching batches. With its annual yield of 500 - 600 tones of foodstuff fish, the lake is a good store of fresh food for Hanoi capital. This also offers a lot of jobs to hundreds of people, granting their life, and contributes tax to the national budget or public welfare. The lake has great capacity of containing and decontaminating waste waters. Yearly, West Lake collects a volume of rain and untreated waste water in range of millions cubic meters. As West Lake nurses an average permanent fish population of 500 tones in weight, which consume dregs, organic residues as well as zooplanktons and phytolankton?, its water is constantly and effectively purified. It would need hundreds of million VND if the water had been treated by other industrial means (electricity or chemical). Due to its beautiful landscape sight, the area around West Lake has recently been urbanized too fast. Since 1990, there have bristled so many of hotels, guest houses, restaurants, houses of all sizes for rent, building for lease, … Number of people coming to hire rooms to live and for business in the region is remarkably increasing, for example, the ward of Quang An has 218 houses only for rent. Many investors of different economy components, both home and abroad, have come to open catering and drink services, industrial and agricultural production, etc of them, according to preliminary data, there are 52 enterprises
with more than 3,200 laborers and the annual total turn-over of VND 174.5 billion for 1997. The area around the West Lake has attracted 10 enterprises having more or less foreign investment with the total amounting to USD388,130,000 , equivalent to 1,019,260 taels of gold. In Vietnam, there are rare places that are abundant in historical, cultural vestiges like West Lake. Counting for 6 urban wards near West Lake, we have 64 historic - cultural vestiges including temples, pagodas, and epitaphs, etc. Of them, 21 have been recognized to be national historic cultural heritages, such as Pagoda of Tran Quoc, Pagoda of Kim Lien (1962), Temple of Nhat Tan, Pagoda of Tao Sanh (1993), Pagoda of Tay Ho, Van Nien (1996) etc. These all are associated with so many legends and historical stories or events. Beside these temples and pagodas in ancient times, this place was also famous for its festivals, such as Festival of Tay Ho. A saying has been handed down through generations which says "Festival in Great Father's honour in August, and Great Mother's in March " (which refers to Lieu Hanh Mother, whose death anniversary falls on the 6th - 7th, lunar March). Dong Co Anniversary of Oath Ceremony took place in Ly Dynasty on the 25th lunar March, all ther courtiers bleeding on the sacred oath "Those who are impious to Father, faithless to King will be condemned to death by Gods". Here, in old times were famous many village of trade with a particular handcraft each, as net weaving (Vong Thi), silkworm raising and silk production (Nghi Tam), paper manufacture (Buoi), bronze welding and casting (Ngu Xa), growing flowers and ornamental plants (Nghi Tam), peach flowers and tangerine trees (Quang An - Nhat Tan).. These trades are now in tendency of rapid restoration and progression. For an honourable time West Lake has been taken as a suitable place for resort, entertainment, poem recitation, source of poetic inspiration for the feudal noble as kings, courtiers, mandarins, Confucian scholars, dynasty to dynasty. West Lake was also the place where lived royal relatives, especially princesses who were said coming here to teach these traditional trades to the local people. It is reasonable to say that West Lake culture is typical of The Red River Delta.
Environmental and ecological value With a water volume of above 9 million cubic meters and water surface of 526 hectares, West Lake is well ventilated, its climate is mild and moderate. For these, West Lake is considered to be a lung lobe of Hanoi regulating the regional climate. West Lake belongs to a set of historical vestiges, cultural relics, famous traditional trade villages as Nhat Tan for peach flower, Quang An for ornamental
tangerines, Yen Phu for ornamental plants. The Lake is near the city center, communication is convenient. Therefore, West Lake is worthy of being a desirable center for international negotiations, business conversations, tourism, sports and culture, entertainment.
Biodiversity value A 2 - year investigation by scientists from the Hanoi National University of Natural Sciences gave the following statistics; Flora - There are 214 species of shade trees, ornamental plants belonging to 97 plant families Genera, 4. This proves the high biodiversity of the Lake and its neighbourhoods. - The phytoplanktons are most abundant in species composition. There are 141 species of alga and chlorobacteria, of them the green algae (Chlorophyta) are the most dominant with 58 species, next come the Bacillariophyta - 20 species, Euglenophyta - 5 species, the least are Dinophyta and Xanthophyta with 1 - 2 species for each.
Animal Zooplanktons: There are 19 species occuring raining season, i.e. less than 6 species in dry season. They belong to 3 group:
Group of species
Number of species Dry season (D)
rainy season (R)
Difference (D - R)
Copepoda
4
4
0
Cladocera
8
6
2
Rotifera
13
9
4
Total
25
19
6
- Zoobenthos: There are 11 species in raining season including 6 species of snail, 2 species of oyster, 1 species of lava, 2 species of Oligoochaelta, that is less than 5 species in dry season.
Group of species
Number of species Dry season (D)
rainy season (R)
Difference (D - R)
Gastropoda
6
6
0
Bivalvia
4
2
2
Decapoda
2
-
Oligochaeta
3
2
Inecta
1
1
Total
16
11
2
Aquaproduct species Statistics shows the occurrence of 35 species belonging to 12 families, of them the carp (cyprinidae) is dominant with 21 species (61%). Most natural fish species of West Lake are those of the red River (25 species, accounting for 75%). The population of cultured fish consists of 8 species. In addition, in West Lake occur other species as dwarf prawn (Macrobrachium nipponense), snail, oyster, mussel, water smooth-carapaced tortoise. The total aquacultural yield of the recent (1978 - 1998) was 6,579 tones, with yearly bred fry batch of 3 - 5 million fishes. This is an active efficacious measure to eliminate organic residues by using them as nutrient to the bred fish, prevent and protect West Lake from being contaminated.
Birds An investigation conducted during the period of March - December of 1997 recorded the occurrence of 58 bird species belonging to 17 families. Of these, 23 species are resident, 25 nest-building, 3 by-flying, and 7 migratory coming only in Winter. There are some rare species fishes precious in West Lake as goby, oleo and some other that have been listed in Vietnam Red date book, fishes as bream (Megalobrama terminalis), snail carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), striped snakehead (ophiocephalus maculatus) and for birds, as baer's pochard (Aythya baeri). In comparison with other regions of Red River Delta, the biodiversity of West Lake is the best and most typical. For this, the lake is really a biotic museum of nature favourable for schoolchildren, students, scientists to study or investigate the nature.
The importance to wild animals The West Lake is a rest place for many kinds of migratory birds, one of them is the black coot, a precious species.
Natural conditions
Geological structure The lakebed cover of mud is 20 - 80 cm deep. In raining season, its thickness is less due to the movement of water on it. The lakebed mud composes of clay in main portion (80%), followed by sand (< 10%) and organic residue in the least portion (4 - 12%) but being the most important source of nutrient for aqua-biotic things which, in their turn, play the most important role in improvement of the lake environment.
Climate Yearly, the sun radiation rate is recorded to be 305.4 cal/cm2/day as the highest in June and 137.2cal/cm2/day as the least in January. The air temperature is highest in July being 29.1 - 29.8oC and lowest in January being 14 - 18oC. The relative humidity fluctuates ranges from 80 to 89% and varies with seasons. The precipitate in West Lake is higher than that from the Meteorology Station of Hoai Duc. For example, on the 8th October 1997, the precipitate was 15.6mm on West Lake against 6.6mm at Hoai Duc.
Fishery and pisciculture Data collected for the last 20 years indicates the weight of fish caught in West Lake as follows: Period
Total weight of fish
Average (per year)
20 years
1978 - 1998
6,575 tones
346 tones/year
16 years
1978 - 1984
4,771 tones
298 tones/year
3 years
1993 - 1998
1,808 tones
600 tones/year
Time
Contamination / pollution Waste matters: Yes Others: Waste waters from households and bases of all kinds come directly to the lake without being treated.
Influencing impacts Human activities during the recent rapid urbanization have exerted remarkably undesirable impacts to the great potentials of West Lake, driven it into danger of environmental damages.
Encroachments upon West Lake: Recently, the region has been surprisingly fast urbanized, the land price rose higher and higher and this has naturally led to uncontrolled illegal encroachment upon the lake, which was most seriously committed during the period of 1990 - 1994. Investigations of land use around West Lake by Agency of
West Lake detected 16.7 hectares of land being in illegal use, without any legal certifications of land possession nor use right.
Contamination and Pollution Water contamination is mainly caused by waste waters and maters. It is waste waters from the Capital and populated areas around West Lake including estates of all kinds such as housing states, factories, hotels, cruising boats… all pour into West Lake freely and directly without any treatments. There are not rare places where households don't treat garbage, bury for example, nor have any accesses for dust-carts, therefore garbages are cast directly into West Lake or piled in heaps which may remain on the lake shore for ages. Tourists also do annoyance of this kind.
12. Littoral areas in the South of Thuy Nguyen district Geographical coordinates 20°53′ North Latitudinal 164°44′ - 106°46′
East Longitudinal
Location Thuy Nguyen District, Hai Phong Province.
Types of wetland 2, 6, 7, 9.
Discription The region is bounded by the dike of Bach Dang in the West, Gia river – in the North, Cam river – in the South. The southern border is a sea-coast part of 7 kilometers in length with narrow strips of mangrove forests of width ranging at 100-300 meters. Sonnerattia is the most predominant plant, most of them have been planted for some 30 years. Besides, there grow also Kandelia. Approximately, these old forests are about 150 hectares in all, including marine aquaculture areas therein. Southward from these old mangrove forests are marine aquaculture ponds, each with ca.5 – to 10-metter strips of Sonnerattia trees. Near to Cam River mouth is a littoral area with numerous aquaculture ponds.
History of the region In 1994, The District People’s Committee announced the local old mangrove forests to be protected areas. Groups were hired in charge of guarding and preventing the areas, namely the forests, from being destroyed either for aquaculture or on other purposes. These decision and actions reflected the need of building, protecting mangrove forests in order to save sseacoasts, lessen damages by storms and strong waves.
Forest and Flora In approximation, for the last 30 years, about 100 hectares have been reforested by planting Sonnerattia trees. As a result, the Sonnerattia accounts for the main portion of mangrove forests of the region, with Kandelia candel in smaller numbers.
Fauna and endangered species
There live many bird species of Passer order in these old forests through the winter. Of these many are precious and rare that have been found in Red River Delta such as eastern broad-billed roller, Blue-cheeked bee eater (Merops superciliosus), Black-rack-tailed magpie, black-naped orile (Oriolus chinensix) and ashy minivet (Pericrocotus divaricatus).
Land use Local people breed ducks in tidal areas and graze water buffalos in mangrove forests.
Aquaculture The district authorities have encouraged aquacultural area owners to maintain the mangrove forests in their aquaculture ponds. However, they still take this unfavourable to the shrimp and crab, lowering their aquaculture productivity. Lands are managed chiefly in extensive cultures, little in improved ways.
Fishery There still occur fishing with electricity.
Dossier - 3
13. Van Uc Estuary (Tien Lang District) Geographical coordinates 20°40′ - 20°41'
North Latitudinal
106°41′ - 106°42′
East Longitudinal
Location Van Uc River Estuary. District of Tien Lang, Hai Phong Province
Area 1,500 hectares
Management unit District People’s Committee of Tien Lang
Type of wetland 2, 6, 7, 9
Description Old mangrove forests cover the southern areas along the river Van Uc, farther are saline marshes and Casuarina forests.
Forests and Flora In the region, there occur 100 hectares of old mangrove forests in aquaculture ponds. The principal species is Sonnerattia, besides some others such as Kandelia and Acanthus ilicifolius.
Fauna and endangered animal species The occurrence of black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor), saunders’gull (Larus saudersi) which are two of endemic bird species of the East Asia is recorded. Counting in a single day, the daily occurrence frequency has been recorded as follows: little egret (Egretta garzetta) – 50, grey heron (Ardea cinerea) – 45, Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) – 50, Chinese pond heron (Ardeola bacchus) – 140, black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) – 16, black kite (Milvus migrans) – 121, black baza (Aviceda leuphotes) – 1,610.
Marine aquaculture
Aquacultural areas are managed mainly in traditional extensive manners for shrimp, crab and fish culture, chiefly for fish crop.
Hunting and catching Hunting birds with airgun using flash light by night has been recognized.
14. Thai Binh River Estuary (Tien Lang district) Geographical coordinates 20°37′ - 20°38' 106°36′ - 106°39′
North Latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location District of Tien Lang, Hai Phong Province
Area 2,000 hectares
Management unit District People’s Committee of Tien Lang Type of wetland 2, 6, 7, 9 Description This is an area of old mangrove forests linking with tide-flooded areas along the Thai Binh River. The total areas is 2,000 hectares, including 100 hectares of lod mangrove forests with Sonnerattia as the predominant species and Kandenlia, Acanthus ilicifolius occurring in minor numbers. As approximately accounting, about 95% of mangrove forests are existing within the aquacultural areas of the region.
Forests and Flora This region possesses 100 hectares of mangrove forests, approximately estimated to be ca.50 years of age. This is one area of the natural mangrove forests that rarely survive on seacoasts of the North Vietnam. Some mangrove plants of high age exist in sporadic groves with some individuals, approximately estimated to be over 100 years of age.
Fauna and endangered animal species Three endemic birds of the East Asia have been found in the region, they are black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor) (is going to be extincted), saunders’
gull (Larus suadersi) (in danger of extinction) and black-head ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) (on the brink of extinction).
Land use Local habitants breed domestic ducks in tide-flooded areas. Sand is extracted for civil and industrial construction and housing purposes.
Aquaculture Aquaculture is performed chiefly in traditional extensive culture. Most land (pond) tenancy contracts signed with the District People’s Committee have a term of 15 years with yearly rent of 90,000 VND. Such contracts are still made without cease giving rise to the dangers to the local wetland environments.
Fishery Fishing is done in tide-flooded areas with crochet nets.
Hunting and catching It is noted that, near Thai Binh River mouth, ca.500 metters of nests set for bird catching were once found, which covered up to 275 m2 of mangrove forests.
Affecting impacts Forest logging for firewood are still committed.
Actual situation of management and protection This region has not been protected. To conserve this region will offer opportunity of existence to numbers of species which are present herein but in danger of extinction globally. This region is of high conservation value, but it has not been neither conserved nor protected for taking advantage of its value.
15. Tien Yen Estuary
Geographical coordinates 21°17'
North Latitudinal
107°27'
East Longitudinal
Location: District: Tien Yen – Provice: Quang Ninh
Area: 5,000 hectares Management unit: The District People's Committee of Tien Yen Type of wetland: 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. Descriptions Alluvial deposit areas are thickened, widened are enlarging and mangrove forest are developed to protect lands; as being bounded by mangrove forest island commune of Dong Rui is not overflooded, though here is less than 3 meters above the sea level.
Economic value In such a natural environment, local people have acquired excellent experience in farming, aquaculture and fishery at the same time. Sea transgressions for agricultural lands, coastal fishery and aquatic captures are in wide variety fishing in waterlogged areas and catching crab, oyster, teredo on elevated lands in all year round. This is the main income for the local people, for all that the mangrove forests are of vital significance to production and people's life.
Environmental and ecological value Mangrove forests are so attractive habitats to various animals, especially waterbirds and migratory birds. Provided that mangrove forests are well protected, waterbirds would gather more and more, the region would become a tourist site of high economic value, being able of gaining foreign currencies.
The importance to wild animals Mangrove forests serve dwelling and reproductive sites to numerous marine aquatic creatures. Herein, young crabs come to find their abode. Yearly, during the period of December – February, as the east – west winds blow ashore, cuttlefish, squid, herring, grey mullet, salmon and many others come here in colonies to spawn depositing their eggs and germs. In reproductive seasons, mangrove forests are rest places for the wildbird on their migratory ways. In Spring, from January to March, and in Autumn, August and September, there come many crowded flocks of migratory birds for a rest on their migration ways. Mangrove forests of Tien Yen yield humus, depositor organics as nutriment not only for animals within the region but also in the shallow sea of Bai Tu Long Gulf.
Natural conditions Rainfall Average annual rainfall - 2,400mm, most during the period of May September.
Temperature - Mean annual temperature:
22°C
- Highest in June and July:
32 - 34°C
- Lowest in December:
12 - 15°C
Forests and Flora The flora of the Mangrove Forests of Tien Yen is more diverse in spices composition and has more valuable uses than the others in the North Vietnam. The trees herein are of larger size than those of the same kind elsewhere on the west coast of Tokin Gulf (Gulf of Bac Bo). Some trees of Bruguiera gymnorhiza and Kandelia candle are 5 - 7 meters high, Avicennisa marina 6 - 10 meters; and particularly, Aegiceras cornculatum trees well grow up to 2.5 - 3.2 meters high.
Land use Before the year of 1990, the mangrove forests of Tien Yen was exploited in small amount, wood for woodlogs, green leaves for herbal humus or manure, apiary was small and sporadic, chief are the fishery and gathering naturally available aquatics products for local self-supply. Formerly, the mangrove forests of Tien Yen were the largest in area and its flora is the most abundant and diverse in the North Vietnam. Since 1961, the policy of transforming uncultivated lands for agriculture has led to the destruction of thousands of hectares of mangrove forests in Ha Dong, of which, parts have turned to be uncultured (Hong, P.N, 1970). Since 1990, the remained areas of mangrove forests have been continuously destroyed, chiefly for shrimp culture.
Affecting impacts Since late 1993 until early 1994, the campaigns of making sea-dikes to form shrimp ponds are in smaller or larger scales, 50 – 70 hectares each year. This led to serial death of mangrove forests trees for they are waterlogged strongly, the decayed vegetation residues poisoned the environment, doing harm to marine products therein, and the restoration is far from being possible or very time-requiring. At the present, as approximately esteemed, about 200 hectares of forests are in gradual degradation. Sea-aquatic products as Bong thua, Vang, Oyster, Crab are overexploited in larger amount regardless of seasons.
Plans for future development Nowadays, local people and authorities of many coastal regions are so active in reforestion to make breakwater wall, but seedlings are in sore lack. Tien Yen is rich in young plants of Bruguiera gymnofrhiza, Kandelia candel tree which serve as abundant sources of young plants of high quality for reforestation. If the forests would be well protected, this may be a considerable income source of the regions.
Statistics of mangrove plants in Tien Yen Estuary and their uses Life
Name N°
Latin
Local
Form
Uses
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
A 1.
Mangrove forests species Acanthus ilicifolius
¤ r«
S
Leaves – treatment of rheumatic and neuropathic diseases Planted to cover dike sides, shrimp culture pond banks. - Leaves (protein-rich): Fresh or dried nutrient for Excoecaria agllocha, cockle; as leaven to make green manure; - Fruits – feed brachkish fish, pickled dishes; - Wood – huosehold tools
2.
Sesuvium portulacastrum
Sam biÓn
G
3.
Avicennia lanata
M¨m qu¨n
T
Avicennia marina
M¾m biÓn
T
Suacde marittima
Muèi biÓn
SG
Lumnitzea
Cãc vµng
ST
4. 5. 6.
Waterbreak, planted on seashore dune land
racemosa 7. Excoecaria agallocha
vµng Gi¸
land ST
Leaves – Poisonous but good for goat breed. Trunk – for culture of wood mushroom. Wood – Paper production material
8. Xylocarpus granatum 9. Aegiceras corniculaum
Xu æi
T
Wood – Woodculpture - Bark and fruit: Tannin production.
Só
S
- Trunk ∗ Burnt for ash in treatment of facial eczemas; * Firewood.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5) - Flowers: Apiary * Bark: drug and fish poisoning
10. Acrostichum aureum 11. Bruguiera gymnorhiza
R¸ng
F
Trunk and Root: Cataplasm for treatment of furuncles and wounds.
VÑt dï
T
Plant: waterbreak forest Wood: Household tools, firewood. Leaves: livestock breed.
12. Rhizophore stylosa
§.vßi
T
Plant: waterbreak Wood: Pole, firewood Leaves: Livestock breed Bark: Tanin production
13. Schipphiphora hydrophyllacea 14. Sonnerattia casseolaris
C«i
S
BÇn chua
T
Plant: Seawall protection Wood: household production, firewood
tools,
paper
Fruit: Soup Air root: bottle cork, electric isolator. 15. Heritiera littoralis
Cui biÓn
T
Seed: Water decoction – treatment of dysentery
B
Associated mangrove forests 1.
Annona glabra
2.
Cerbera manghas
3.
Na biÓn
ST
Plant: Protect, prevent pond banks from slidings and erosion.
M−íp x¸c
G
Poisonous. Leaves – Alcaloids used for treatment of cardiopathies.
Crinum assiaticum
N¸ng
G
- Leave: Treatment of Ecchymosis blood congrestion, swelling, inflammation, sprain, bone fracture.
4.
Pluchea indica
Løc, Cóc tÇn
G
Leave and root: treatment for common cold and scabies.
5.
Tridax procumbens
Cá mui
G
Grass – grown to protect saline water dikes
6.
Pluchea pteropoda
Sµi hå
C
Dry root: Treatment for fever, cold, dizziness, dysmenorrhoeica
7.
Ipomoea pescaprae
Muèng biÓn
I
Root, stem: Water decoction – treatment of gastric, rhumatic disease, dropsy
8.
Cyperus malaccensis Cãi
G
Make weed mat, wrapping materials, art craft articles.
9.
Cyperus tegitiformis
L¸c
G
10. Cyperus stoloniferus
Cá gÊu
G
11. Fimbrystilis ferruginea
Cá l«ng
G
12. Flagellaria indica
M©y n−íc
G
13. Scaeveola hainanensis
HÕp H¶i nam
SG
14. Scae taccada
HÕp
S
Plant: Sea-dike protection
15. Cynodon dactylon
Cá gµ
G
Dry herb and root: antitussive, diuretic, choleretic, cattle fodder. Grass: cover, protect sea dikes covering their sides.
16. Phragmites karka
SËy
G
Protect sea dikes; for firewood
Tubed root: Treatment for dysmenorrhoeica (menstrual disorder), diarrhea
Rattan – like stem: rope, rigging
17. Sporrobulus virginicus
Cá c¸
G
Livestock fodder
18. Cassytha filifomis
D©y t¬ xanh
E
Dry wine: Treatment for nephrosis, blurred vision, male sexual impotence.
19. Derris trifoliata
Cèc kÌn
L
Green manure, Dike protection (dike side cover).
20. Canavalia obtusifolia
®Ëu cé
L
Green manure, Dike protection (dike side cover).
21. Hisbicus tiliaceus
Tra
ST
Root: Antipyretic, analgesic (India)
22. Thespesia populnea
Tra biÓn
ST
Plant: Decoration
23. Myoporum bontioides
Chä
S
24. Pandanus tectorius
Døa d¹i
G
25. Clerodendron inerme
V¹ng h«i
S
Leave: Antipyretic, putrid sore throat (Swolen diphtheria), jaundice (icterus)
26. premma integrifolia
V¹ng c¸ch
ST
Dry leave: antipyretic, abdominal pains, diarrhoea, Rheumatic, post-natal complications, Jaundice.
Leave: Relieve gastric pains.
Stem: Fibre Dry root: Dysuria, Resolvent
16. Littoral area of Thai Thuy
district
Geographical coordinates 20°37′ - 20°38' 106°36′ - 106°39′
North Latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location District of Thai Thuy, Thai Binh Province The district has 7 coastal communes: 1. Thai Do 2. Thai Hoa 3. Thai Thuong 4. Xuan Hai 5. Thuy Tan 6. Thuy Xuan and 7. Thuy Truong
Area 13,100 hectares
Type of wetland 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9
Description The seacoast of the district is 16 kilometers in length between the estuaries of the two rivers of Thai Binh and Tra Ly. The isle of Con Den (300 hectares in area) locates itself on the South of the district, north-eastward from Tra Ly Estuary. Mangrove forests in combination with deep revulets separate these sand dunes from continent land. In most aquaculture areas, the reed grows dominantly. Con Den island is separated from the major dike by a forest strip. In aquaculture areas, reed is the dominant tree. Mangrove forests cover a small part of Con Den island, nad the rest, ca.70%, are seacoast, sand dunes, Casuarina forests. In the middle of the district the river of Diem Dien runs to the sea. Near the district town there is a port favourable for export to China. In the North, the district has large salt fields. The most part of the district seacoast was grown and planted with Kandelia trees. Near Thai Binh river mouth are ca. 400 hectares of old mangrove forests, with the Sonnerattia tree in predominance and Kandelia and Acanthus
illicifolius in minor numbers. The old forests of the region are approximately estimated to be planted ca.50 years ago, but most are in aquaculture ponds.
Natural conditions Thai Binh river keeps providing the district land with large fertile alluvial deposits.
Forests and Flora On the South of the district, between the two rivers of Tra Ly and Diem Dien, there remain mangrove forests separated from aquaculture areas. Mangrove forests are concentrated chiefly between the continent land and Con Den isle. As reported by the District People’s Committee, these forests are 7 years of age. Of them, the major plants are Sonnerattia, Acanthus and Kandelia. The reed distributes mainly in aquaculture ponds near Tra Ly river mouth and in little minor area in the North of the district.
Fauna and endangered animal species In this region, birds are concentrated in the surrounding areas of the mangrove forests near Thai Binh river mouth. In Winter and early Spring, there have been found three species of those birds in danger of global extinction, that is black-faced ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor), saunders’gull (Larus saudersi). They were reported to present in following numbers; Black-headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus)- 14 birds (in twa observations during the course of tide-flooded wetland investigation), black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor) – 23 birds, and saunders’gull (Larus saudersi) 1-147 birds. Moreover, the rest places of storks and herons have detected in the southern parts of the district, within the aquaculture areas adjacent to Tra Ly river mouth. The observed occurrence of several notable bird species are as follows: Little egret (Egretta garzetta) – 12 birds, rufous-winged buzzard (Butastur liventer)- 115 birds, great egret (Egretta alba) – 8 birds. Bird species taking rest place in the old mangrove forests near Thai Binh river mouth (April, 1996): Common
Latin
name
(Taxonomic denom)
Little egret
Egretta garzetta
Grey heron
Ardea cinerea
Purple heron
Ardea purpurea
Date (in Month/Day) 4/09
4/25
4/27
4/28
4/29
35
40
78
54
21
02
10 10
05 28
12
4/30
Great egret
Egretta albe
10
10
11
20
27
419
463
11
184
03
01
03
01
160
14
174
179
115
02
04
12
18
05
264
568
769
260
325
Casmerodius albus Cattle egret
Bulbucus ibis
Chinese pond heron
Ardeola bacchus
Green-backed heron
Butorides striatus
Black-crowned Night heron
Nycticorax
Great cinnamon bittern
Ixobrycus sinensis
Total
06 60
80
20
Nycticorax
121
Land use Since early 1994, a program for planting mangrove forests in the region has been started with aids from the Red Gross Association of Denmark and of Thai Binh, The District People’s Committee of Thai Thuy and technical helps from Mangrove Research Center (MARC). During the years of 1994 – 1996, 2,000 hectares of mangrove forests were planted with the Kandelia tree. Along with this project, three documents on ecology and reforestation of the wetland have been delivered to pupils and those people who took part in the reforestation campaign in coastal communes of the district. Through the project which financially supported by private funds of Denmark Red Cross and project of ACTMANG, 150 hectares in the North of the district have been planted with Kandelia trees. Kandelia trees were planted in such density of 6 – 9 plants per square meter that they would be efficiently helpful in wind stopping and flood resisting. Casuarina trees were planted to form ca.50 hectares of forests. Mangrove forests trees are useful in protection of dikes surrounding aquaculture ponds, and old trees are logged for firewood. In the northern parts of the district, salt fields are about 100 hectares in area. For the year of 1995, 5,500 tones of salt was produced for regional supply. Cow and buffalo pasture is known having been practiced in the mangrove forests. Seaweed is harvested form aquacutural ponds near the district town of Diem Dien. In the season from May to June, a crop of ca.7 – 10 tones of fresh seaweed is attained.
Aquaculture In the district there are ca. 1000 hectares of aquaculture ponds, including 900 hectares of mangrove forests. These all aquaculture ponds spread along the seacoast, are managed some in the traditonal extensive culture and the rest in improved extensive culture for shrimp, crab and fish crops. Most of the ponds are used under an 8-year tenancy contract signed with the District People’s Committee. District department of Science, Technology and Environment has held a training course every year, with visiting lecturers from Thanh Hoa Province, to provide pond owners and workers with knowledge of aquaculture management with good regard to the mangrove forests conservation.
Fishery Fishing is practiced for Ca Lac and Ca Nhech at Tra river mouth with the approximate yield of about 100kg per day and a gross annual income of ca.US$ 3,400. About 35 medium-sized fishing boasts are operating at Diem Dien river mouth. Usually, fishing is perfromed about 5 kilometers off shore and at a 3- to 4-meter depth. Less than 500 meters apart from Diem Dien, there operate larger fishing boats.
Hunting and catching Hunting with air and dust-shot guns and catching with tangled nets have been recorded.
Plants for Future Development The Government has permitted to build a new port near the town of Diem Dien.
17. Tien Hai Wetland Nature Reserve
Geographical coordinates 20°17′ - 20°22'
North Latitudinal
106°23′ - 106°35′
East Longitudinal
Location The Tien Hai Nature Reserve is located in the southern part of Tien Hai district, on the northern side of Ba Lat river mouth of Thai Binh Province. Coastal communes are Nam Phu, Nam Hung and Nam Thinh.
Area 12,500 hectares
Management unit Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Type of wetland 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9
Description The Nature Reserve is 12,500 hectares in area, covering a southern paart of Tien Hai district, with Lan river in the North, Ba Lat Estuary in the South and the main dike in the West. Nevertheless, the coastal border of the Nature Reserve has not been clearly defined. Herein, there are two isles, Con Vanh (2,000 hectares) and Con Thu (50 hectares), where Casuarina trees have been planted in forests. Isle of Con Thu spreads 4 kilometers long from the continent land linking with the flooded areas consisting of sand beaches. Con Van is separated from the continent land by a deep rivulet. On the margin trips of land of the rivulets and canals grow mangrove forests with the Kandelia trees in predominance, which account for a minor portion of the Kandelia trees in predominance, which account for a minor portion of mangrove forests of the region, whereas the rest, the major portion of the mangrove forests, finds itself within aquaculture areas. On the northern side of Ba Lat Estuary are ponds of extensive aquaculture, in which grow mainly the reed. The rest is a trip extending as far as Lan River with casuarina as the predominant plant species. Tide-flooded areas here are sandy.
History of the Region The Nature Reserve of Tien Hai was established by the Government’s decision dated October, 1995, locates in the South of the district. But, it was not until May 1996, this Nature Reserve had received financial supports and been put in official manament.
Forests and Flora One hectare of Kandelia candel has been planted at Ba Lat Estuary.
Fauna and endanggered animal spices In Spring, migratory birds, with the whiskered tern (Chlidonias hybrida) in the greatest number, feed in shrimp aquaculture ponds and some warblers as orintal great reed warbler (Acrocephalus orientalis), dusky warbler (Phylloscopus fuscatus) in marshes of reed (Phragmites communis). In the bird rest places on Con Thu isle, 447 birds were once counted at high tide (April, 1996). Numbers of birds counted at tideflow on Con Thu Isle - Tien Hai Wetland Nature Reserve – Common Name
Latin Name
Quantity
Bar-tailed godwit
Limosa japonica
2
Common greenshank
Tringa nebularia
10
Terek sandpiper
Tringa cinera/ Xerus cinereus
1
Great knot
Calidris tenuirostris
4
Sanderling
Calidris alba
Rufous-necked stint
Calidris rucicollis
Curlew sandpiper
Calidris ferruginea
3
Broad-billed sandpiper
Limicola falcinelius
2
Grey plover
Pluvialis squatarola
40
Lesser sand plover
Charadrius mongolus / leschenaultii
28
Total
100
257 447
Land use Duck breeding is practiced on Con Vanh isle, and cow, buffalo grazing along dikes around aquaculture ponds.
Aquaculture
On Con Vanh Isle, aquaculture ponds are used in either traditional or advanced extensive manners.
Fishery Large and medium-sized boats usually do fishing at the south promontory of Con Vanh. Crochet and entangled nets are used most commonly in the southern parts of the Nature Reserve. Cabio (Crab-eater, Rachycentron canadum) is fished in muddy marshes at the estuaries. Mollusca catching and other seaproducts gathering. At Lan River mouth on the northern part of the Nature Reserve there are tide-flooded marshes of about 900 hectares, where some 1,9 tones of mollusca is gathered a day.
Hunting and catching Airguns and dust-shot guns have been seen in use in hunting.
18. Xuan Thuy Wetland Nature Reserve
Geographical coordinates 20°10′ - 20°17'
North Latitudinal
106°21′ - 106°33′
East Longitudinal
Location Xuan Thuy Wetland Nature Reserve is in the northern part of Xuan Truong district, Nam Ding province on the North bank of the Red River. Coastal communes of Xuan Truong districts are Giao Lam, Bach Long, Giao Phong, Giao Long, Giao Hai, Giao Xuan, Giao Lac, Giao An , Giao Thien.
Area 12,000 hectares
Management unit Xuan Thuy management board belonged to Nam Dinh Forest Protection Department.
Type of wetland 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9
Description The Xuan Thuy Wetland Nature Reserve is situated on the North side of Ba Lat river mouth and in the North of Vop river, along the promontory which extends southwards from the main dike at Esturary No 9. The North and East borders of this Nature Reserve are not so clear-cut. The isles of Con Ngan and Con Lu also belong to the RAMSAR site Wetland Nature Reserve, though Con Ngan is not separated from the continent land by water. Between Con Ngan and Co Lu is a deep canal running to Tra River. Most aquaculture ponds are concentrated on Con Ngan. There occurs only a narrow mangrove forests strip of 5-15 meters in width along Tra river. Kandelia and Sedge have still grown in some aquaculture ponds. Con Lu is an thickened land consiting of many sand dunes, saline marshes, sand beaches, Casuarina forests and mangrove forests within aquaculture areas.
History of the Region In August of 1988, The Government chose an area in the North of Xuan Thuy district to recognize as the first National Ramsar site. Later, in January of 1995, the Wetland Nature Reserve was decided to establish with an area of 5,640 hectares of this National Ramsar area (Anon. 1993).
Natural conditions The Red River brings soil erosion matter from its upstream catchment areas to make great alluvial deposits at its downstream zones. In this Wetland Nature Reserve, this depositing process is evident at Bai Lat Estuary, where Con Xanh has recently taken its from 500 meters away from Co Lu.
Forests and Flora 800 hectares of mangrove forests are grown in the Nature Reserve. The predominant plant is the Dandelia tree. Sonnerattia trees are also planted in addition to naturally growing plants as Kandelia and Acanthus ilicifolius. Only 2 Avicennia species have been found herein. Of the mangrove forests, 40% are found in aquaculture areas. On Con Ngan isle, there occur 500 hectares of Sedge in aquaculture ponds.
Fauna and endangered species The Nature Reserve of Xuan Thuy has a diverse bird population. In migration seasons, in Spring and Autumn, huge number of sea-coastal birds take this wetland region as their rest. The most important rest at tide-flow is at the end of Con Lu isle. In this Nature Reserve are found six species which are in danger or falling into danger of extinction. They are spotted greenshank (Tringa guttifer), asiatic dowitcher (Limnodromus semipalmatus), western curlew (Numenius arquata), Saunders’gull (Larus saudersi), swinhoe’s egret (Egretta enlophotes), and black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor). Numbers of birds counted at tideflow time in Xuan Thuy Nature Reserve (1996)
Common name
Latin (Taxonomic denom)
Observation time (1996) (Month/Day) II/07
Black-tailed godwit
Limosa limosa
Bar-tailed godwit
Limosa lapponica
440
III/21
165
IV/07
IV/24
5,000
1,160
100
3
V/03
102
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopus
Western curlew
Numenius arquata
Spotted redshank
Tringa erythropus
Common redshank
Tringa totanus
30
33
Marsh sandpiper
Tringa stagnatilis
45
4
15
Commom greenshank
Tringa nebularia
60
30
Spotted greenshank
Tringa guttifer
3
8
Terek sandpiper
Tringa cinera/ Xenus cinereus
Grey-tailed tattler
Tringa brevipes
35
3
15
170
61
8
9
60
16
2
200
7
20
2
45
30
42
1
20
11
1
90
Heterocelus brevicepes Ruddy turnstone
Arenaria interpres
Woodcock dowitche
Limnodromus scolopaceus
1
Asiatic dowitcher
Limnodromus semipalmatus
3
Great knot
Calidris tenuirostris
25
100
7
Red knot
Calidris canatus
52
1
13
Sanderling
Calidris alba
Rufous-necked stint
Calidris ruficollis
300
450
Dunlin
Calidris alpina
Curlew sandpipe
Calidris ferruginea
520
Spoonbill stint
Eurynorhynchus pygmeus
Broad-billed sandpiper
Limicola falcinellus
Grey plover
Pluvialis squatarola
160
Kentish plover
Charadius alexandrinus
120
1
2
1
2
15
17
500
78
618
40
80
5
400
1
4
2
50
400
19
10
6
54
250
Lesser sand plover
Charadrius mongolus / leschenaultii Total
510
880
900
55
2,996
1,922
7,329
3,266 1,785
Land use During the period of March to July, beehives are moved here for flower nectar of Kandelia and Aegiceras. Yearly, the high season of honey production lasts two months, and each beehive may yield 18 kilos of honey. In 1995, the total amount of honey gained in the district town of Xuan Thuy was 4,050 kilos worth US$1,050. The Sedges of Cyperus rotundus grow between sand dunes on Con Lu is gathered to use as a drug treatment of tuberculosis. In 1995, a crop of ca. 200 kilos of this kind of reed was gotten on Con Lu isle. Sand for construction is usually extracted on the very northern end of Con Lu isle. On the coastal areas, bivals, king-crab, venus shell are gathered alongshore. The places for their gathering are mainly in the South of the Nature Reserve. According to the documents by district people’s committee, in the year of 1995, the region exported more than 4,300 kilos of molusca. For molusca, in wetland areas, gathering is mostly concentrated in about 150 ponds in private management, especially for venus shells to export to China.
Aquaculture Traditional extensive ways of aquaculture have been applied for shrimp, fish and crab culture. Most of the aquaculture ponds on Con Ngan isle have been formed for more than 5 years. None of pond owners (users) has tenancy contracts, but taxes are imposed on their incomes and paid to the District People’s Committee. Most common opinion of the aquaculture pond users is that for ponds within the Nature Reserve, it is the increase in plant density in the ponds that lowers their aquaculture productivity. The managing officers of the Wetland Nature Reserve have organized to show Gei Wai’s method to pond owners and workers. Ponds formed on Con Ngan isle are not so satisfactory because of lack of financial investment for their improvement, and so , thei enlargament possibility is limitted. The seaweed crop of Gracillaria verrucosa is obtained by gathering in aquaculture ponds within the Wetland Nature Reserve. During the course of this investigation, 70 – 80 women have been encoutered gathering the seaweed in the Nature Reserve. The yearly time for seaweed gathering is the period from April till June, with the price of dry seaweed being some VND 450,000/tone (US$ 41
per tone). And, in 1995, they earned about VND 2,000,000 (US$ 182) each. However, the Nature Reserve got nothing from this sum.
Fishery Crochet nets has been found in use for fishing in tide-flooded on the southern area of Con Lu isle. At So river mouth there is a port favourable for large fishing boats. Fishermen also use Chinese traps and wall netting in fishing in deep water courses. In tide-flooded areas, crochet nets are used to make wall netting.
Hunting and catching Small-meshied nets have been found set for catching in reed marshes.
Plans for future development In 1992, Tamsar Convention Organization gave financial support to the project in Xuan Thuy through the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment. The International Union for Conservation of Nature Resources (IUCN) provided the former Ministry of Water Resources with a fund for carrying out the research titled “Progressing in stabilization of steady land use in coastal wetland areas”. Since the decision for establishment of Nature Reserve of Xuan Thuy was promulgated, it directly belongs to the Provincial People’s Committee of former Nam Ha, and then, present Nam Dinh.
19. Littoral area of Nghia Hung district
Geographical coordinates 19°00′ - 19°56' 106°07′ - 106°12′
North Latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location The region belongs to Nam Dinh Province. Three coastal communes of the district are Nghia Trung, Nam Dien and Nghia Phuc.
Area The total area of the region is 9,000 hectares.
Management unit District People’s Committee of Nghia Hung
Type of wetland 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9
Description The district has a seacoast length of 12 kilometers. The west and east borders are the river of Day and Ninh Co, respectively. Near Ninh Co rever mouth are a large sand area with sand-dunes and salt fields. Casuarina trees have been planted on some dunes. In the West of the casuarina forests are crab culture ponds and reed marshes. Along Ninh Co river are areas of salt fields. Tideflooded area outside the main dike is 3,500 hectares large, of which 60% are forests of Kandelia. There are two small waterbound thickened lands about 5 kilometers off-shore with their total area of 25 hectares.
Forests and Flora There grow only Kandelia trees in the mangrove forests. As estimated by the District People’s Committee, the total area of mangrove forests of the region is ca. 1,600 hectares, of which 40% are found in aquaculture ponds, and 85 hectares of Casuarina forests.
Flora and endangered animal specices An new endemic species of Scirpus genus, Scirpus kimsonensis. (Co Ngan), has been discovered (Nguyen Khac Khoi, 1996). Its rhizome is very starchy and good for duck breeding and serves as natural fodder for migratory birds at the same time.
Fauna and endangered animal specices The wetland along the seacoast of Nghia Hung district is an area of diverse distribution of waterbirds. Of them, some are in danger of global extinction, such as spotted greenshank (Tringa guttifer), asiatic dowitcher (Limmodromus semipalmatus), saunders’ gull (Larus saudersi), black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor). In February 1996, there recorded the occurrence of 16 spoonbills making 4.5% of the world population of this kind. Con Mo, also known as Con Xanh, is the rest place of sea birds at tide-flow time.
Land use Domestic ducks are bred feeding on the mollusca. About 50 hectares of salt fields distributes on the north-western side of Ninh Co river.
Aquaculture Aquaculture is practiced in three ways. The extensive way is applied for newly made ponds. The essntial improvement in the Improved extensive way of aquaculture is entensive breeding of tiny young crabs. The semi-intensive way has the limitation as it depends on whether the water is changed or not. The reed of Gracillaria verrucosa is gathered in some ponds.
Fishery The use of crochet net of mesh of 3cm has been observed in fishing around the mangrove forests along Day river. Fishing with electricity has still been committed. The division of people doing gathering aqua products in the region of ca. 1,500 hectares amounts to an order of 1,000. The main species gathered are venus shell, etc.
Hunting and catching There have been various forms of hunting and catching such as the use of nets, airguns, dust-shot guns. It is notable that here nets are widely used for trapping birds with which birds are catching in large number in one batch regardless of neither age nor growth. In a rush time of this kind of catching, which fell in February 1996, a total length of 19,9 kilometers of bird-catching nets was set in the tide-affecting areas of the district, covering an area of 79,450 square meters. The recent statistics showed that there live 37 hunters and catchers in the district. This is the unique place of the whole country where catching birds
using nets has occurred pervasively, severely, out of control. It was said that once a single catcher using nets got 200 kg of bird game in only one night. Plans for future development The Provincial Subdepartment of Forestry Inspection and Control of former Nam Ha (present Nam Dinh) and the District People’s Committee of Nghia Hung have paid due attention to managing the establishment of the Nature Reserve in this region. However, the district authorities are realy hesitating, for this event may exercise undesirable influences on the local people’s economy.
20. Wetland nature resewe Van Long
Geographical coordinates 21°21′ - 20°26′ 105° 47′
- 105° 55′
North Latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location To Van Long, from Hanoi, one takes the National Road 1A, 50 kilometers southward, then follows Road 12B 6 kilometers in the direction of National Park of Cuc Phuong, then turns to the right and continues the course 2.1 kilometers farther. Van Long is in district of Gia Vien, province of Ninh Binh.
Area
Including
- Total:
3.500 hectares
- Limestone Mountains:
1.339 hectares
- Lakes and marshes: - Streams (length):
998 hectares 12 kilometers
Management unit The District People's Committee of Gia Vien
Description This is the largest inland wetland that survives in North Vietnam Delta. It is bordered by Nam Ha province in the North, Hoa Binh province in the North West and a 15 kilometer dike length of Hoa Lu district (Ninh Binh province) in the South. Van Long is still a rather wild region composing of moutons, marshes, lakes that have not been affected by human activities.
Objective of the region Development of tourism and conservation of a model of typical inland wetland.
Altitude
Unknown
Type of wetland 13, 22
Socio-economical value There are many limitations in exploitation of this wetland. The exploitation is chiefly for forest products and construction materials, fishery and pisciculture, goat breeding. This wetland is a real potential place of humanityculture and environment tourism with many temples, pagodas, single or in groups.
Natural and environmental value Van Long has various wonderful grottos and caverns. Preliminary investigations recorded the occurrence of 32 beautiful caves and 2 marvelous underwater grottos. It suggests there would surely remain some undiscovered.
Importance to regional wild animals The wetland of Van Long - Gia Vien is favoured by the nature with large area of forests in limestone mountains, a dense system of marshes and ponds, a series of Karxt grottos and caverns, those in all constitute a dreamlike sight of moutains-waters, usually referred to as "inland Ha Long Bay". The potential of this wetland in ecology and environment tourism is certainly a powerful support to the study of its wetland biodiversity. Limestone here was formed of carbonate deposits alternative with dolomite layers or clay sheets, which have took shape for 215 ± 5 million years, with its depth of 800 - 1,200 meters. For its great age of formation and existence, due to both paleo- and neo-tectonic activities, as well as erosion processes, there formed a large variety of Karxt Caverns in the body of limestone mountain ranges, expecially a region of Karxt topography with beautiful sight and varied plentiful ecology. This region needs to be researched for determining its potential in the regional economy development, building it as a nature reserve, protecting its biodiversity, biosafety, rare genebank, its stable and healthy environment.
Forests and Flora Forest area: 1,339 hectares
Flora and endangered plant species In general, this wetland region has been newly recognized. For this, the data collected has not been sufficient, it needs further plans for investigations to estimate more concretely. Through 2 short investigations, many pruccions plants
have been found as marbhamia pierrei (Dinh), erythrophleum (Lim), parashorea clrineusis (Cho Chi), many other ornamental and medicinal plants.
Fauna and endangered animal species Generally speaking, this wetland region has been recently discovered. Data collected on its fauna is poor and need be supplemented by further planned investigations to estimate more profoundly. As reported by local people, there are some precious animals living in the region such as white-rumped langur, leopard, asiatic black bear, rhesus macaque, green peafowl, great hornbill, pheasant, waterbirds as black coot and several migratory species, etc.
Population The region is still rather primitively wild, there have settled only about 80 families as a "new economy state (/quarter)" in the commune of Gia Hoa, on the North of the region.
Land use Free Total area with wetland plants: 1,000 hectares Total area without wetland plants: Unknown
Fishery Number of fishing boats: Still unknown Surface water fishing: Fishing with electricity: occurred Tax-free Fishery is not controlled yet.
Hunting Hunting has been praticed It occurred people coming from other locations for hunting. Provincial and district authorities have announced orders to prevent these to protect the nature. Local community (some communes) observe well the regulations.
Environmental pollution - Mineral oil contamination:
No
- Pesticide (insecticide) contamination:
No
- Industrial contamination:
No
- Waste matters (dust):
No
- Other contaminations:
No
- Public sense of environment protection: Good Affecting impacts The region is threatened by economic activities of the local people. The following activities have been encountered in the region: Hungting animals, catching wild birds, exhaustive fishing, searching for natural ornamental plants and precious drugs without reserve. Danger of upsetting the ecological equilibrium, reducing the biodiversity would come soon if no due attentions are paid to its safety.
Management and protection The commune of Gia Van has formed a group of 5 guardians to protect the region in general and forest animals in particular, prevent and stop illegal hunting and other activities that may do harms or damages to the region.
Plans for future development - Programs, plans for development of "new economy state": No - Programs, plans for development of agriculture: No - Programs, plans for development of land reformation: No - Programs, plans for development of nature conservation: The Provincial People's Committee has lodged to the Government an account for approving an investment project to build the wetland nature reserve of Van Long with an estimated area of 3,500 hectares.
Other problems The Hanoi embassy of Royal Netherlands is making a subproject to support the investigations and construction of the valuable Wetland Nature Reserve of Van Long.
21. Chinh Cong swamp
Geographical coordination 210 31’ North latitude 1050 05’ East longitude Location Situated in Midland and Northern area, in former Thanh Ba district and presently in Thanh Hoa district, Phu Tho province, having similar characteristics with that in Chu lake (in the North direction)
Area Average surface area of the swamp in rainy season is 400 ha
Management unit Under the management of the District People’s Committee, this assignment is also given to those communes along the swamp for the protection, contraction and exploitation of the sound.
General description This swamp has the track of ancient meandering river and is affected by hard storms, so the flow is converted, leaving “dead” river parts, and turning it into lake and swamp in this region. Surrounding the swamp are low hills and rice field.
Elevation above the sea level About 20 m
History of the region Water resources of the swamp is derived from Ca river and Ky stream. In rainy season, the swamp received water from alluvial deposition of Thao river through approach canal or sometimes this swamp is overflowed at the bank.
Inundated land type 15
Socio-economic value of the region Surrounding the swamp are found with intensive farming fields. Compared to Chu lake, the land surrounding Chinh Cong swamp is less eroded Socio-economic condition of the region that influences to water swamp, is the same with Chu lake.
Natural and environmental and landscape values of the region
In Chinh Cong swamp, aquatic population covers fauna and flora, similar to Chu lake, but lotus and nenuphar are bigger in its quantitative and it is considered as diversified aquatic species. Fish and shrimp production annually were 30 tons, fish species with high economic value are (Cyprinus carpio, Amur, Gobius, Coilia etc.). Water bird species are Dendrocygna, Tabanus, and teal to come to this swamp, as bigger quantitative than in Chu lake.
The importance of wild life of the region The more importance of bio-diversification value is that some water bird species used to immigrate by season to live in Chinh Cong swamp likely Cleg, Anas aucklandica, Branta leucopsis and Pelecanus
Natural condition Hydrology: There existed two small springs that are Ca and Ky to flow into this swamp, its flows joint together with Thao river.
Water quality: good Landuse In dry season, the land from swamp-bed is exposed and the local people take advantage this for annual crop cultivation.
Affected impacts The benefit derived from Bio-diversification and landscape of this swamp is also declined tremendously. Other problems Those conditions that need to undertake for natural conservation for Chinh Cong swamp are also similar to that in Chu lake. Dossier - 22
22. Ben En Lake (Muc River)
Geographical coordinates 19037’ 105032’
North latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location
Ben En Lake is located entirely in the territory of the two districts of Nhu Xuan and Nong Cong, Thanh Hoa province, 45 kilometers from Thanh Hoa city. Area. The lake area varies in range of 2,000 - 3,000 hectares. The mean area (at the level of 29m) is 2,281 hectares. Management Unit
National Park of Ben En. Objective of the region. Supplying water for watering 13,000 hectares of fields within the two downstream districts of Nhu Xuan and Nong Cong. Description
Ben En Lake is divided into two parts by the damp of May which is over 500 meters in length and 42 meters in height against the standard level, and with this damp, the water level of the upper part is 15 meters higher than that of the lower one. On its two sides, there are ranges of steep limestone mountains which form a beautiful background of lovely watermountain scenery, very attractive to the tourist. The lake bottom is not even due to the occurrence of many tree stubs and bristly sunk crags. The mean depth is 10 meters with the greatest of 20 meters at the damp gate. Surrounding the lake are ranges of low hills and narrow valleys. Ben En Lake has 21 smaller and bigger isles of surprising beauty. In rainy season, water overflows invading valleys making the lake surface much larger. Altitude
The lowest water level is 13 meters and the highest is 33 meters at the overflowing damp. Type of wetland. 36 History of the region
Ben En Lake is a water catchment area of 4 streams.
- Stream of Han which is 16 kilometers long springs from mountains of Bao Cu and Bao Tre. - Stream of Tho which is 20 kilometers long springs from the mountains of Co, village of Quang. - Stream of Coc which is above 11 kilometers long starts its course from the mountains of Vo, flowing across the village of Coc. - Stream of Tay Ton which is 15 kilometers long, originates from mountain range of Tieo Heo - Rooc Khoan running through Binh Luong and village of Vien. Socio-economic value. Ben En Lake supplies water to 13,000 hectares of fields in its two downstream districts of Nhu Xuan and Nong Cong. The lake is favourable for aquaculture, for the early years the annual yields was varying within a range of 100 - 150 tones/year. With a large surface and plenty sources of floating (330 Kg/hectares), the lake water contains a great amount of nutrient desirably suitable for pisciculture. Hydroelectric production: As soon as the damp of May had been built, a hydroelectric plants was built with two groups of engines, the productivity is 1000 kW with the water consumption of 15m3/s million for each group. The total volume of water is 300 - 400 million cubic meters. With this water volume, if these two groups of engines operated all day round (24h/day) for successive 100 – 150 days, the lake would be drained to dryness. At the present, the lake depth has never passed the level of 23 meters (at the damp gate), this means that the lakebed is deposited remarkably, more and more. For this reason, the hydroelectric base has been abandoned to be desolate. Value of nature and environment scenery With 21 small isles in the lake, the scenery is really water-mountain picture that yearly attracts thousands of tourists voyaging by boat. On these isles there are mammal birds and plants in lively shapes and colours, where the tourist may have a rest, boating, fishing, playing and sightseeing in an environment with high clear sky and immense water, especially in hot summer days.
Importance to regional wild animals. Many rare precious species of reptile, batrachian and freshwater fish have been found in the lake environment.
Natural conditions. Climate:
The climate of Ben En region conforms to two climate laws, governed by two characteristics, one is the high altitude and the other is continental degree of the region.
Hydrography: All the streams that flow to Ben En Lake have water all year round, their beds are narrow but rather deep, flow rates are great in rain, flood seasons but much less in dry seasons.
Land formation: The lands were formed mainly from alluvial deposits of streams and rivers.
Flora and endangered species Though the vegetation cover has much been damaged, it is playing an essential role in land protection and water conservation for the lake. Fauna and endangered species For the waterbird, both species composition and individual number are low, because the lakebed is of great depth and steep slope unfavourable for them. Fishes in the lake are poor in species composition but so dense in individual number that their yields are desirably high. For example, once in 1990, just for 7 days 1,089 kg of fish was caught, of which the bighead carp (Aristichthys nobilis) and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) are in the most portion. Since 1979 the Aquaproduct Company of Ben En has caught every year a fry of 1 - 1.4 million young fishes. In 1983, 14 tones of bighead carp were caught (some weighed 15 kg each). During the period of 1984 - 1986, the average annual yield was approximately 20 tones/year, and reached maximum of 30 tones for the year of 1987. Afterwards, from 1989 on the yield has decreased by 7 - 8 tones each year. The cause of this might be the excessive increase in exploitation and thoughtless decrease in fry investment. Now, for gaining nothing but loss, the company has disbanded. The reasons for this were insufficient investment, ineffective protection, exhaustive catching, illegal fishing with explosive occurring for a long time.. these all have tended to exterminate any aquatic sources of the lake. In the future, attention should be paid to the tourist fishing.
23. Ke Go Reservoir
Geographical coordinates 18013’ 105055’
North latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location Ke Go Reservoir is in the district of Cam Xuyen, Ha Tinh Province.
Area - At the water level of 37 meters, the area is 2,911 hectares. - At the water level of 14 meters (dead level) the area is 750 hectares.
Management Unit The provincial People’s Committee of Ha Tinh
Objective of the region Ke Go Reservoir belongs to the Nature Reservoir for protection of Species of fish and waterbird, the white wild duck for instance.
Description Ke Go Reservoir has a capacity volume of 400 million cubic meters which can supply water for irrigation of an agricultural area of 22,000 hectares in the two districts of Cam Xuyen and Thach Ha, and water for daily life of the people in the provincial town of Ha Tinh and its suburban communes. - The length is 20 km.
- The width is 2 - 3 km. - The mean depth is 23m. Altitude to the sea level 40 - 60 meters. Type of wetland 36
History of the region The precedent of Ke Go Reservoir is the river of Rao Me, starting from Nam Wharf through Tru Cape to Choong Abyss, crossing it is now the Damp A.
Socio-economic value In addition to the use for agricultural irrigation, Ke Go Reservoir is used for aquaculture and the hydroelectric plant with capacity of 2,100 kW which is now in use.
Natural conditions Climate: - The climate is monsoon tropical. - The mean temperature is 230C. - Annual precipitate is 3,000 - 3,500 mm (the highest in the Central Vietnam).
Hydrography The system of large rivers pouring water to Ke Go Reservoir consists of the rivers of Rao Truong, Rao Pheo, Rao Cat, Rao Mom, Rao Len, Rao Buoi, Rao Coi with the total flow rate of 12m3/s. Influencing impacts The coverage of riverhead protection forests only amounts to 25 %. Most forests are poor or infertile. Stunted bushy forests and bare hills and mountains covers a rather large area. Under these circumstances, land erosion and the lakebed depositing are increasing.
Plans for future development. The investment project for building National Nature Conservation of Ke Go has already been approved by the Government.
24. Tam Giang Lagoons
Geographical coordinates 16°32′ - 16°39' 107°20′ - 107°37′
North Latitudinal East Longitudinal
Location Lagoons of Tam Giang are situated within the territory of Quang Dien district, Hue City, Province of Thua Thien Hue.
Area 8,000 hectares
Management unit Provincial People’s Committee of Thua Thien Hue
Type of wetland 10, 11
Altitude to the sea level ≤ 2m (Less than 2 meters below the sea level)
Description The Tam Giang Lagoons, as a whole, is a form of wetland that took shape by convergence of mumerous rivers just at their estuaries on the seacoast through the alluvial depositing and sand movements to separate them from the sea by long narrow sand strips like dikes, resulting in many ponds, marshes, say Lagoons. Large rivers like that of Bo, O Lau and Huong converge at their estuaries in Tam Giang Lagoons, leaving only one estuary opening to the East Sea, that is Thuan An river mouth. Tam Giang Lagoon system is of elongated oblong shpe, parallel to the seacoast on its North West – South East side. The Lagoons are 20 kilometers long by 3 kilometers wide with the least width of 0.5 kilometers. On the North is the river of O Lau that runs into the sea through estuaries of Thuan An and Tu Hien. The lagoons are affected much by tide flows.
History of region Tam Giang Lagoons have been formed by deposits along the seacoast line. The newly formed sand strips stretch long towards the sea, then back in joining again with the former seacoast lines at other points, and thus, surrounding some area of the sea to form new lagoons. Consequently, with these long sand strips newly formed in the East, the seacoast lines advance eastwards into the sea.
Economic value of Tam Giang Lagoons Tam Giang Lagoons play important roles in the local people’s life. Fish, shrimp, crab, bivalve mollusks are the important source not only for the province, location but also for export. Besides shrimp, bivalve mollusks, the annual fish yield of the lakes was about 3,000 tones. Unfortunately, fish are caught in large bulks and naturally on steep decrease. The sea weed species of Gracillaria verrucosa is a valuable aquatic product becoming one of the aims of the provincial aquaculture. Potential of tourism is also considerable.
Value of Natural environment and landscape The sights of lagoons are wonderfully picturesque. They are and will be the best sites for tourism and places for health refreshment for both domestic and foreign tourists.
Importance to the wildlife in the region The lagoons show very importance to wild animals. Here are important rest places for various kinds of migratory birds, consisting of wild ducks, wild geese and other waterbirds migrating from the North in Winter.
Natural conditions The water is naturally saline as the lagoons are the convergent point of 7 rivers (O Lau, Bo, Huong, Truoi, Dap Dinh, Thien Hoa, Cong Quan). Salt concentration ranges at 1.66 – 2.18%. Annual mean temperature varies from 20.1oC (in January) to 29.0oC (in June). Rainfall: Rain season lasts from August till December. As being situated in a tropical monsoon zone, in the rainy season the highest regional precipitate falls in the period of October – November with 18 – 91 mm per month. In season of rain and flood, the region is also affected by overflowing floods. In Autumn, 3 large rivers and other 3 small ones (Dap Dinh, Thien Hoa, Cong Quan) concentrate a huge volume of rain water into these lagoons. In the dry season, the salinity of lagoon water reaches a range of 16.6 to 21.8 ppt and the driest time being January – February.
Flora and endangered species There grow 9 plant species in the lagoons, of these 5 belong to the family of Hydrochariaceae with the species of Najas indica in predominance. This is an endemic aquatic species with its biomass being 2500g/m2. The grass s[ecies of Hydrilla verticillata, which is most predominant in O Lau River with its biomass of 200 – 250g/m2. A total of 86 fresh grass s[ecies have been recorded. The composition of the reed population is largely varied with seasons. In raining season, the fresh water grass species constitute much greater portion than the saline water ones, and vice versa in dry season.
Fauna and endangered animal specices At the present, more than 100 fish species live in the lagoons. They belong to 11 orders and 54 families. The most predominant is the order of Perciformes including 26 families and 68 species. In the economic point of view, the family of Sigandae is the most important. The genus of Singanus with 3 spinefoot species as Siganus guitats, Siganus jacris, Siganus fuscescens that yield most in the area of lagoons. In the lagoons occur some shrimp species of high value such as Indian white prawn (Penaeus indicus), giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon), white banana prawn (Penaeus merguiensis), yellow prawn (Metapenaeus monoceros).
Land use In neighborhoods of the lagoons, the population density is rather high iving on agriculture, fishery and seaproduct catching in lagoons and out in the sea. Lands are used for the purpose of agriculture and protection of nature including waterbirds.
Hunting and catching Waterbirds are still in terrible threat of being hunted.
Environment pollution The pollution of the lagoons is inconsiderable.
Influencing impacts The aquatic resources are in serious danger of decrease because of exhaustive exploitation. The evil habit of determination fishing and mass hunting of waterbirds is still seriously lasting:
Management, Protection and Conservation
The interest of Tam Giang Lagoons is managed by The Provincial People’s Committee who has brought forward directions for steady protection of the ecological environment and programming the local aquaculture of many valuable aquatic species in intensive directions.
Plans for future development The provincial authorities have elaborated out directions for steady reasonable use of Tam Giang Lagoons. Priority is given to development of culture ad growth of most valuable aquatic species of fish, shrimp and sea weed as Gracilaria verrucosa, etc.
25. Cau Hai Marsh
Geographical coordinates 16°28′
North Latitudinal
107°45′
East Longitudinal
Location The marsh of Cau Hai covers an area spreading on 5 coastal communes and 3 adjacent mainland ones of Phu Loc district, Thua Thien Hue Province.
Area Ca. 8,400 hectares permanent and 12,000 hectares in the raining season.
Management unit The Provincial People’s Committee of Thua Thien Hue
Description The coastal border of Cau Hai Marsh is an old sand stretch, and the are shaped inland border consists of mouton and hill ranges, particularly with the foot of the Mountain Pass of Lang Co – Hai Van. The specific feature of these 5 coastal communes is the wetland ecology and culture, practicing intensive Agriculture – Fishery – Forestry. This model of wetland is really worthy further researches in its development process.
Altitude to the sea level 0 – 1.4 meters (at and below)
History of the region The Marsh of Cau Hai is the wetland type that is formed by the convergence of many rivers at their estuaries into one before running to the sea being separated from the sea by moving sand dunes in strips (like for Tam Giang Lagoons). It is notable that this wetland is so old that these sea-separating deposit strips have consolidated to become permanent lands, in addition, with an its immense largeness, the marsh invades far into the mainland. The sandy land between the sea and marsh has been inhabited and cultivated for so many generations of the 5 existing communes.
Economic and socio-humanity value Aquatic culture, environment tourism.
aquaproduct
catching/gathering
and
ecological
Annual aquatic yield is ca. 1,500 – 3,000 tones.
Environmental and ecological value The Marsh of Cau hai is juxtapositional to The National Park of Vach MaHai Van and near to other picturesque landscapes and historic vestiges such as the Capes of Chan May, Trung An, the Buddhist Pagodas of Tuy Van, Linh Thai. For voyages on the lake by canoe, there are some large ports or wharves such as of Da Bac, Da Dam.
National conditions The water of Cau Hai Marsh is less saline or brackish than that of Tam Giang Laggons. Tu Hien Estuary that keeps flows between the marsh and sea is very narrow and narrower tending to be closed by alluvial deposit. In the rainy season, the water is fresh in the marsh, brackish near Tu Hien Estuary. The living population is similar to that of Tam Giang Lagoons, but more diverse and abundant in fresh water aquatic species in areas near the inland border line.
Forests and Flora Numerous watershed forests have been grown not only in the area of some communes surrounding the marsh, between the marsh and sea, but also on the mountain and hill sides along its inland border.
Land use Cau Hai Marsh inherits an ancient original civilization with intensive culture of water rice, horticulture. The population has acquired good experience in land use of the land strips that separate the marsh from the sea for alternative culture of various plants with high efficiency, environmental value, economic interest and ecological characteristics. The exploitation of aquatic benefit of the marsh is moderate under the common regulations of the local communities at the level of village or commune or location. The 5 local communes on the eastern shore of the marsh, e.g. Ving Hung, Vinh My, Vinh Giang, Vinh Hai, Vinh Hien, are all famous for their long tradition of intensive agriculture in fields and gardens, of exploitation of aquatic products in the marsh, with good observation of the environmental and ecological conservation. As a result, though rather dense is the population, the violations of the natural resources and damages of ecological equilibrium are fairly limited all over the region.
Plans for future development There are neither official plans or programs for biodiversity conservation in the region of Cau hai Marsh.
The name of the region
26. PHU NINH RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 15018’ – 15030’ North latitude 108023’ – 108035’ East longitude
Location Phu Ninh reservoir is located in the Southeast of Quang Nam province, covering communes of Tam Tra, Tam Son, Tam My and Tam Xuan of Nui Thanh district and other communes of Tam Lanh, Tam Thai and Tam Dan of Tam Ky city town.
Area 3,600 ha
Management unit The Province People’s Committee
General description Water sources include Quan river, Tre spring and other 3 springs. The reservoir is surrounded with mountains and hills with the elevation of about 100 to 300 m. The lake capacity is 427 x106 m3
Objectives Water irrigation and drainage, hydropower generation and fishery.
Elevation above sea level 32 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Water irrigation and drainage, hydropower generation and fishery.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area There is an existence of biotopes with bio-diversity that are typical for the transitional area between 2 climatic zones of North and South.
Importance of wild life in the area Before the reservoir construction, this area was abundant with wild life. After the operation of the reservoir, almost wild life is being disappeared, since the deforestation.
Flora According to initial survey indicates 400 plant species are existing in the reservoir. Some precious ones have been registered in the Red Book, such as Aquilaria agallocha, Parashorea stellata, Amomum echinosphaera and Capanumaea javanica. Notably, there is an existence of transitional plant system between the North and the South, thus it would be more new and valuable plant species are found.
Fauna At initial surveys, the fauna is diversified and abundant. Initially, the inventory shows an existence of 80 bird species, 34 animal species, 26 reptile species and 8 frog and tadpole species. It would be more species if further survey taken. The area has many precious species, such as Tibetan bear, Canis lupus, Tragulus javanicus, Otter, Pangolin, Crested Argus, Copperhead, King cobra, Bungarus fasciatus, Varan , etc.
Land use pattern The reservoir supplies fresh and mineral water, hydropower generation and fishery.
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that have been taken Not yet
The name of the region
27. THACH NHAM RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 15041’08” North latitude 108032’11” East longitude
Location This area is a semi-mountain in the middle of the Ve river (269,000 ha), covering districts of Minh Long and Nghia Hanh, Quang Ngai province.
Area Surface water of 4,200 ha (rainy season) and 3,100 ha (dry season).
Management unit Quang Ngai Water Irrigation and Drainage Company.
General description Thach Nham is a reservoir with an average capacity of about 250 billion m3 of water, 20 – 30 m in depth and many hills became islands after the reservoir inundated. The hills and low mountains nearby still have natural secondary primitive forests. Notably, the forests are found much in high mountains of the watershed area. The man-made forest area is increasing in the resent years. Climate: Seasonal rainfall tropical climate. Hydrology: Annual average rainfall is about 1,200 mm, depending on the Ve river catchment. The dry and rainy seasons are separately, especially flush floods are occurring in the rainy time. Land foundation: Hilly and mountainous soils originated mainly from eruptive mother soils and yellow-red feralite soils with think layer and much acidity. Topography: Low hills and mountains, less slope in the area nearby. High mountain and more slope in the watershed area. Water quality: good water quality in case of large surface. Water reduce acidity of weathering and eroded products, and bring more fresh water. Temperature: Annual and maximal temperatures are 290C and 390C, respectively.
Hydro-dynamic: Land change, erosion and sedimentation, etc. The natural and man-made forests are developed since the reservoir formation, limiting the soil erosion phenomenon.
Objectives Man-made reservoir built, supplying water irrigation for more than 10,000 ha of rice land in the downstream, fresh water for Quang Ngai city town and creating a resort for tourism.
Elevation above sea level In average, 52 – 85 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Water sources for irrigation of more than 10,000 ha of agricultural land, overcoming dry and fallow land situation of 4 surrounding districts.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area The reservoir creates landscape, improves dried-long time hills as well as environment in the middle area of the Ve river (closed to Quang Ngai city town).
Importance of wild life in the area It is suitable for wild life species.
Flora Forest area: the remaining area is about 34% of the total area. The area of natural and man-made forests is 41,000 ha. Major plants comprise of Peupacme siamensis, Lagerstroemia spp., Dahbergia oliverii, Acassia spp. and Cassia siamea. Forest areas: Man-made forest area is 1,100 ha annum with growth rate of 400 – 500 ha. In future, there is a plan to green 5,000 ha of protection forest. This area is a semi-mountainous area, secondary natural forest, and rare and minor indigenous plants.
Fauna The natural forest is being recovered plus with man-made forest, creating relevant biotope for wild life. The species are, however, not identified yet.
Land use pattern Water irrigation and drainage, water for domestic consumption and fishery. Aquaculture: initially developed without an official planning. Total surface water for fishery is about 4,000 ha, but minor annual production. Local people catch fish daily. Province fish-product company is at first surveying for investment. Rudimentary tools for catching fish. Fishing activities are out of control.
Affected impacts Not occurred yet.
Countermeasures that have been taken Agricultural land is allocated under the condition of the Red Book. The local households those allocated land, have signed contract for afforestation and forest protection. Forest protection and well forest planted; Management and exploitation of minerals resources.
28. Tra O swamp
Geographical coordination 14011’ North latitude 108052’ East longitude
Location The swamp is 18 km far from Phu My district and 60 km far from Qui Nhon city by the North direction, this area is bordered in the North with Sui Lam mountain, in the East with Mieu mountain, Phu My district, Binh Dinh province.
Area 1,600 ha
Management unit General description As a low land area, this swamp belongs to the basin at the North of Phu My district, is relatively shallow (depth: 0.5-1 m of water). From the swamp, there existed Chau Truc river running to the East sea. Along the swamp, there appeared sand dune strips with 17 km long and 1-2.5 km wide. Sand dune height is 5-20 m, some are found with 40 m. Climate: This region is affected by monsoon, having two distinct seasons that are dry and rainy season. Dry season commences from March to August, and rainy season from September to February of next year. Devastating storms hit this region frequently. Annual mean rainfall is about 1,410 mm Hydrology: In flooding season, this region was affected from overflow from Chau Truc river to flow to this swamp, with strong flow. Process of land formation: low gutter, deposited alluvial, muddy all year around. Topography: flat, low at coastal region Water quality: is normal, in flooding season deposited products from the basin flow into so water becomes muddier than in dry season Temperature: annual mean temperature is 280 C.
Hydrodynamics: variation, soil erosion, sedimentation etc.: at arrow and low gutter of Chau Truc river.
Objectives Aquaculture
Elevation above the sea level 16-22 m, in average
Inundated land type 10; 11
Socio-economic value of the region There are many favourable values for aquaculturing
Natural, environmental and landscape values of the region Unknown
The importance of wild life of the region Unknown
Flora Poor and exhausted forests and bush on the basin are left only 8,200 ha Dominant crops in the region are bush and mixed weed Plantation forest area in the basin is 1,120 ha and each year about 80 to 100ha was planted In the future, plans will be completely feasible for continuously afforestation, greening barren land in the basin.
Fauna Investigation has not yet made
Landuse pattern Aquaculture, production derived from exploitation was 250 tons/year Normal and traditional catching
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that have been undertaken Not yet
29. Thi Nai swamp
Geographical coordination 130 57’ North latitude 1090 17’ East longitude
Location Situated in the direction of NorthWest-SouthEast, 16 km long, 500 m wide. This region is bordered in the North by Tuy Phuoc and Phu Cat district, in the South by Qui Nhon city, in the West by Tuy Phuoc district and Qui Nhon city, Binh Dinh province, in the East by coastal sand dune, 5 km from Qui Nhon city.
Area 5000 ha
Management unit The Qui Nhon People’s Committee
General description As natural sea estuary, the water level is deep, some rivers pour water into the swamp all year around, biggest flow is in Con river, originating from the Central Highlands Rainy season starts from September to December, accounting for 70-78 % of yearly rainfall. Climate: Mean temperature in this region is 2608 C. The biggest one is 42.10C, the lowest one is 150C, mean humidity is 80%, maximum and minimum humidity are 83-84% and 70-75%, respectively. Hydrology: Flooding season is later than in rainy season, flood normally commences in October and ends in December, strong flood concentrates in November, December Process of land formation: Sea swamp has some river gates, deposited mud mixing with sand, runs to the sea and has great impact from tidal regime Topography: low mountain creates peninsular at Northeast bank Water quality: Temperature: annual mean temperature is 26.80 C.
Hydrodynamic: variation, soil erosion, sedimentation etc.
Objectives Aquaculturing and fishing
Elevation above the sea level below 10 m
Inundated land type 10
Socio-economic value of the region Rearing shrimp provides material for export, job opportunities for inhabitants living around the region.
Natural, environmental and landscape values of the region The values provide ecological balance for entire region. The swamp is large, with low mountain range, forming peninsular that stretches to the bank of NorthEast, to the port and to Qui Nhon city at SouthEast bank.
The importance of wild life of the region Unknown
Flora There existed 30 ha of mangrove forest that blocks wave for the bank of the swamp, 720 ha of pinus at sand dune that is located along the peninsular Main crops in this region are Casuarina quisetifolia, Myrsina ceous, and mangrove spp. etc. There are 36 high level seaweed and vegetative species from the inventory.
Fauna There are 14 shrimp species and 116 fish species
Landuse pattern Aquaculturing and fishing
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that have been undertaken Not yet
30. Nui Mot lake
Geographical coordination 130 48’ North latitude 1090 08’ East longitude
Location This lake is situated in An Nhon district, Binh Dinh province, 28 km far from Qui Nhon city in the NorthWest.
Area 1100 ha
Management unit Corporation for irrigation scheme management and exploitation (Enterprise for irrigation scheme exploitation No. 4)
General description This lake is built near An Truong river, main purpose of this lake is for irrigation and drainage, fish cultivation, climate regulation.
Objectives Irrigation, drainage, fish cultivation
Elevation above the sea level 50 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic value of the region Irrigation, drainage and fish cultivation, providing irrigation water for about 5,000 ha of rice field in the South of An Nhon district. Fish production is about 30-40 tons per year.
Natural, environmental and landscape values of the region Regulating climate for this region
The importance of wild life of the region Unknown
Flora Protected forest area is 6,433 ha with main crops as Michelia spp, Cinamonum spp, Pinus, and indigenous trees.
Fauna Unknown
Landuse pattern Irrigation, drainage, fish cultivation
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that have been undertaken Not yet
31. CHAO Lagoonpool (belongs to Xuan Dai Bay)
Geographic Coordination 13026’ North attitude 109018’ East longitude
Location The region is located at the south of Song Cau town, 60km far from Tuy Hoa city town, Phu Yen province.
Area 1100 ha
Management unit Song Cau District People’s Committee
General description Climatic conditions: under the coastal climatic regime. Hydrology: the region borders with Xuan Dai estuary near the river mouth so that it is influenced directly by river flows and sea tides. The process of land formation: the region has characteristics of sedimentation of shallow estuary-sea. Stratigraphic classification makes layer from upper level to lower level composing of sedimentation layers in the river, estuary and sea, mainly is sand mixed with lensing mud, and buried coral reef. Water quality: good. Temperature: the average temp is 26.70C annually, varying from the highest degree of 33.70C to the lowest of 20.80C.
Objectives Cultivating and cashing aqua-products
Inundated land type 1; 9
Socio-economic values of the region The region is a favorable place for fishing and aqua-products cultivating
Natural and environmental and landscape values of the region Unknown
The importance to wildlife of the region The region is very important for migratory birds.
Flora Dominant plants in the region are mangrove species such as Rhizophora mangle, myrsinaceous, and date-palm.
Fauna Unknown
Landuse pattern Aquaculture and fishing
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that has been undertaken Not yet
32. Cu Mong swamp
Geographical coordination 130 29’-130 40’ North latitude 109012’-109019’ East longitude
Location Cu Mong swamp situates in the North of Song Cau district, Phu Yen province, about 70 km far from the North of Tuy Hoa town.
Area 920 ha
Management unit The People’s Committee of Song Cau district
General description Sea swamp is blocked by sand dune, still affected by tidal regime. Most of the areas are influenced from in-land, seawater is less than brackish water, Cu Mong mountain strip is surrounding the bank of Northeast and West Temperature: tropical, hot and humid
Topography: The bottom of Cu Mong swamp is relatively flat, the top and gate of the swamp is gradual from the bank, creating the hollow. The middle of the swamp is shaped by ditch, the average depth of entire swamp is 3-3.5 m, the deepest one is in swamp gate that runs to the sea, about 5 m Water quality: good Temperature: maximum temperature is in June, above 300C, minimum temperature is in December, below 290C.
Objectives Aquaculture, sea product catching, especially shrimp cultivation for export.
Elevation above the sea level below 10 m
Inundated land type 10
Socio-economic value of the region Development of aquaculture
Natural, environmental and landscape values of the region Migratory bird and aquatic habitats
The importance of wild life of the region Unknown
Flora Value species are Gracilaria, grass species as soft weed, fan grass, gracilaria flesh.
Fauna Species component is diversified. Shrimp species give highly economic value but there are only two species that are Grass shrimp and Lasteinling praeoperculum that give the highest value. Besides, Sandy crab and flowered crab are high value species. Mollusk are small jumping snail, oyster, astarte.
Landuse pattern Aquaculture, production derived from natural exploration is 20-30 tons/year
Affected impacts Shrimp cultivation without plan breaks the landscape. Catching methods cause detrimental to aquatic habitat resources as catching by bottom net, shrimp net, drage net. Sometimes, using explosives for catching is taken place, however, now it is declined
Counter measures that have been undertaken Not yet
33. SONG HINH HYDROPOWER RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 12005’ – 13019’ North latitude 109037’ – 109001’ East longitude
Location Song Hinh district, Phu Yen province
Area 4,100 ha
Management unit General description The reservoir is build by the construction of Song Hinh hydropower work. Climate: Monsoon tropical climate, without cold winter, characterized by a transition of climate between the East and West sides of the Truong Son Range. The wind regime reflects 2 distinguished seasons. The winter is dominant with 1 of 3 wind directions of North, Northeast and East, meanwhile the summer with the West, Southwest and East. Hydrology: Hinh river is among 3 big river branches of Ba river on the right bank of main stream originated from the Cho Mu 2051m – elevation high mountain, joining Ba river on the right at Duc Binh Dong, Song Hinh district, 85 km long, catchment of 996 km2 and 772 km2 up to the dam route (79% of the total catchment). The Song Hinh upper part is a biggest rainfall center of Ba river system with a tremendous water amount supplies to Ba river (1.58 billion m3). The average slopes of river-bed and catchment are 8.4% and 24.4%, respectively. Topography: The river-bed is a lowest part of Hinh river catchment, the Hinh river one is a low mountainous area mixed with hills belong to the East of Truong Son Range. In general, mountains with elevation of about 1,000m belong to Vong Phu and Deo Ca, are found in the South and Southeast then the low mountains between 400 – 1,000m surrounded in the South, Southwest and West. The hills mixed with low mountains that connected from Ea Trol commune (200 – 400m) in the West to Song Hinh commune of Dak Lak. Water quality: Good
Temperature: Average temperature 250C, maximal temp. 27.60C (June) and minimum temp. 21.30C (December).
Objectives Aquaculture and exploitation of fishery sounds.
Elevation above sea level 117 – 200m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Stabilize living condition for 300 ethnic households to be re-settled in the reservoir area (those lost their lands and have to move for settlement because of construction of the Song Hinh hydropower work), taking part to minimize deforestation in the watershed area. The fish production in the reservoir expected 30 tones a year.
Natural, environmental and landscape values in the area Tourism resort in future.
Importance of wild life in the area Unknown
Flora Forest area in the catchment is 12,318ha
Fauna Unknown
Land use pattern Aquaculture with an annual production of 430 tones
Affected Impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that have been taken Not yet
34. BA RIVER MOUTH
Geographic Coordination 12056’ – 12059’ North attitude 109022’ – 109026’ East longitude
Location The region is located at the southeast of Tuy Hoa city town, Phu Yen province.
Area 1000 ha
Management unit
General description Climatic condition: tropical monsoon Hydrology: is characterized by special distinctions of the North central region such as short rivers, significant gradients (average gradient in the Ban Thach river system is 3-5m), frequently floods happened in rainy season, insufficient fresh water resource, and saline intrusion in dry season. Topography: cross section of the main river belonging to the area from railway to the Da Nong River mouth is rarely changed, the dept and gradient of the river are also changed very slowly. Temperature: the average temp degree is 26.50C, ranging from 13-150C minimum to 400C maximum, amplitude between day and night varies from 8 to 120C, and the water temp sometimes increases up to 350C. Hydrodynamics: variation, soils erosion, sedimentation, etc of the Da Nong River mouth are quite unstable, since after 1937, it has been moved its location 6 times. For over 40 years now (1955) the Da Nong River mouth has been filled up 30 times. The changes are the results integrated by a range of such elements as wind, tidy flow, river’s water flow, soils and sand sedimentation, digging, etc. Additionally, many other elements of physical geography, materials formed the mouth have created an increase of the moving and sedimentation.
Misplanned and mismanaged economic activities over the past dozen years have impacted on gradually diminishing the ecological harmonization and it results to such situation as rapidly flooded, high peak and strong capacity flood, strongly happening erosion and invasion of the riverbed. Contrarily, in the dry season, water has been dried leading to developing saline invasion, which creates many difficulties to the people’s normal life and production.
Objectives Cultivating and cashing aqua-products
Elevation above sea level Inundated land type
History of the region Socio-economic values of the region Natural and environmental and landscape values of the region The importance to wildlife of the region Flora The river has numerous and diversified species of such valued algae for food as Cheatoceros, Nitzschia, etc.
Fauna Common tiger prawn (penacus monodon), crustacean, shore crab (carcinus) are cultivated species.
Landuse pattern Aquaculture
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that has been undertaken Not yet
35. O LOAN SWAMP
Geographic Coordination 13013’50’’ North attitude 109014’30’’ East longitude
Location The region is located 24 km far from the south of Tuy Hoa city town and 6 km far from Chi Thanh town, lying along the National Road N01A and the Thong Nhat (Unified) railway, Tuy An district, Phu Yen province.
Area 1570 ha
Management unit Tuy An District People’s Committee
General description The O Loan swamp lies along the North-South direction, its largest width and longest place is 2.5km and 8km, respectively. There are many small estuaries in the swamp. Climatic condition: south central region climatic characteristics. Hydrology: the flow of the swamp is not much strong, there is only strong flow at river mouth in the Tan Long region and river mouth to the sea of Tan Xuan, Tan Hai commune. The process of land formation: Topography: the swamp is a relatively flat dried one with the average depth of 1m, the deepest level is at 1-1.4 in the middle of the swamp. Water quality: is frequently polluted in dry season. Temperature: average temp degree is 26.50C annually, the highest is 350C in June-July and the lowest is over 200C in November-December. Hydrodynamics: variation, soils erosion, sedimentation, etc. The swamp’s bed is being filled by soils and become more shallow.
Objectives
Cultivating and cashing aqua-products
Inundated land type 10
Socio-economic values of the region Conditions favorable for aquacultural development
Natural and environmental and landscape values of the region The region is a national valuable landscape
The importance to wildlife of the region The region is very important for migratory birds and aquatic fauna.
Flora Floated aquatic plants strongly develop, with over 100 species found such high valued seaweed (30 species) as glacilaria verucosa, agarophyte, etc.
Fauna 82 species had been identified of which there are over 70 fish species like haarder (mugil), grouper (epinephelus), lateolabrax japonicus, perch (perca), etc. and 10 species of banana shrimp (penacus merguiensis) family. In addition, there are many other species as common tiger prawn (penacus monodon), white shrimp, “huynh de” (king) crab, blood ark-shell (arca granosa), mussel (mytilus smaragdinus), etc. but fish species now being threatened with extinction.
Landuse pattern Aquaculturing and fishing Annual yield harvested: 60-80 tonnes of all kinds of shrimp, 100 tonnes of all kinds of fish and 20 tonnes of molluse.
Affected impacts Pollution by discharging from shrimp cultivating and agricultural production causes eutrophication and pollution for water environment. The people are not deeply aware in environmental protection. There are existing backward practices of cashing fish harming on aquatic resources by indian skimmer, too thick heck.
Countermeasures that has been undertaken
The local authorities has been accelerating the forest protection, plantation and the area of swamp’s surface water now is also being planned for cultivating shrimp appropriately. In 1993, the Provincial Department of Fishery formulated and submitted the project proposal on ecology-economy-society-rural living improvement of the O Loan swamp under Tuy An district, Phu Yen province with funding resource granted by the UNDP.
36. RO Lagoonpool
Geographic Coordination 12046’ North attitude 109027’ East longitude
Location The region is located near under the northeast of Ca pass, 70km far from the south of Tuy Hoa city town, Phu Yen province. It lies along the coast with mountains protruded toward the sea.
Area 1100 ha
Management unit Tuy Hoa District People Committee
General description The Ro Lagoonpool is a coastal region under the Ca pass base, formed by Ba mountainous chain with 706m high Da Bia peak and the Ro lagoonpool peninsula. The estuary is out of the wind with the cover by Hon Nua island in the middle. Climatic condition: tropical monsoon and coastal climatic conditions. Hydrology: the region is under the influence of East sea date-tide. Process of land formation: composed of mud-flats and submarine rocky reefs. Topography: narrow valleys Temperature: the average temp is 260C annually.
Objectives Cashing fish and developing tourism resorts
Elevation above the sea level Bellow 2m
Inundated land type 1; 9
Socio-economic values of the region Vung Ro is the estuary out of the wind, where boats can anchor and it also is a meeting place of high valued fish species. In the region, there are mud-flats and rocky reefs.
Natural and environmental and landscape values of the region The region is beautiful place, with many landscapes of Hon Nua island. This estuary is also a submersible area with high valued landscape and biodiversification. Vung Ro is a historical site belonging to the pro-history of a “Ho Chi Minh trail on the East sea” in the period of 1962-1964
The importance to wildlife of the region Various numbers of valued sea-fish species (scomberomonus (cero), diospyros kaki, thunnus (merma), porpoise (phocaenudae); and colorful coral reefs are found in Vung Ro. The Hao Son fresh water reservoir has a high biodiversified characters with the first class number of aqua-inhabit compared to other natural reservoirs in Phu Yen province.
Flora Nearby Ca dale and Ba mountain (Da Bia), there are many natural forests but Vung Ro in particular having no forest.
Fauna There are many sea products such as sea-fish, coral, oyster in the Vung Ro estuary and many native water-birds and season migratory species.
Landuse pattern Aqua-products catching
Affected impacts Soils erosion in rainy season Over-exploitation threatening on sea floor resources such as explosives and electrical waves. Under-managed fishing has not been controlled yet.
Countermeasures that has been undertaken Not yet
37. NAI SWAMP
Geographic Coordination 11036’ - 11038’ North attitude 109003’ - 109003’ East longitude
Location The region lies at the northeast of Phan Rang town, belonging to Ninh Hai district, Ninh Thuan province.
Area 700 ha
Management unit Ninh Hai District People’s Committee
General description The region is an unequal hexagon shallow hollow, little ravines, linking with the sea by a 2km canal, with 150-300m wide. Surrounding the Nai swamp are rice fields and mountains of Ca Da, Dinh and Hon Thien. The Nai swamp gets water from canals with the area of catchment of 5sq. km and also influenced by dried streams No2 and No3. The region was formed by the interaction between the sea and land happening in geographic formation stages, especially in the age of the IVth preFlandrian of marine formation. The elevation at the east of Truong Son mountain had cracked a part of its edge, creating conditions to river and sea alluvium soils to fill up shallow sea estuaries to become lagoons. Hydrology: the region receives fresh water from canals of Dong Nha, Muong Khe, Ngoi Qua, Dong Lon, Go Than, Tri Thuy with the area of catchment of about 56sq. km. Process of land formation: In the swamp’s bed there are 4 component materials included sand, muddy sand, sandy mud and mud. Topography: shallow elevation, gradient directs toward canal linking with the sea, swamp’s chambre is just only 180m far from the sea canal. Water quality: good, no chemical pollution
Temperature: varies from 22.7-31.50C. The lowest point is 22.7 and 24.70C in December 1995 and February 1996, respectively. And the highest point is 31.5 and 29.90C in May and September, respectively. Thus the temp in winterspring crop is not much suitable to the growth of shrimp. Salinity changes as season. In Phu Tho, salinity is low at 5-10%o in rainy season, but in some ponds the rate is at 10-28%o highly suitable to shrimp growth. In other areas, salinity varies as season, factors of clear degree, pH, oxygen lose are favorable for shrimp for growing. The oxygen lose increases as time of cultivating, in early stage is low 0.64-1.92 and then at high level in the third and fourth month (more than 3mg oxygen/littre) but no any values surpass 5mg oxygen/littre. Water resource supplying to shrimp ponds directly influences on water quality and shrimp growing and even on the development capability of shrimp cultivation in the region. The Nai swamp of Phu Tho River mouth, where supplying directly water resource to shrimp ponds has environmental indexes appropriate to the growth of prawn. Content of nutrient elements in water supplied to shrimp ponds often is at low level. Bottom substances: distinctions of soils at the bottom of shrimp ponds are quite different between pH values and often at neuter value with little acidic. Several ponds are salinisation, with low level value of pH, this shows that favorable and difficult conditions as well as the requirements to improve the bottom of shrimp ponds are not similar between various regions.
Objectives Cultivating aqua-products, cashing fish and producing salt
Elevation above the sea level Bellow 10m
Inundated land type 10; 11
Socio-economic values of the region Because of abundant aqua-resources so the region is playing an extremely important role for fishing, shrimp cultivating and salt producing of the people living in the region.
Natural and environmental and landscape values of the region Unknown The importance to wildlife of the region
Very important to small bird species living nearby coastal areas and migratory birds.
Flora Previously, mangrove had covered thickly the region with many species such as myrsinaceous, rhizophora mangle, cork tree (quercus suber) but now very scattered.
Fauna No any specific investigation and inventory carried out hear but the region is a place where many coastal birds and migratory birds are found.
Landuse pattern Cultivating aqua-products, cashing fish and producing salt Total area of shrimp cultivation is nearly 400ha
Affected impacts Still exists the over fishing exploitation that increasingly threatens sea floor resources by explosives, electrical waves.
Countermeasures that has been undertaken Not yet
38. BIEN LAC LAKE
Geographic coordination 11007’ North latitude 107037’ East longitude
Location Natural lake, low land belongs to downstream of La Nga river, surrounded with low mountains in Tanh Linh district and a part of Duc Linh district, Binh Thuan province.
Area Surface area of 350 ha in dry season and 2,000 in rainy season. Total swampy land of the lake is 3,100 ha.
Management unit Management Unit of Natural Conservation of Bien Lac – Nui Ong, Binh Thuan province
General description Land foundation activities create gutter-shape river bed, deepest is found at 10 m, large year-round inundated area, low mountains and hills are surrounding, far from residential area and many primitive landscapes still exist.
Natural conditions Climate: Monsoon tropical climate with distinguished rainy and dry seasons. Hydrology: In rainy season, inundated area is about 2,000 ha, 2 springs Lang Quan and Cau Me and Ke river (linked to La Nga river), year-round water sources, less water fall. Annual average rainfall is 2,100 mm. Water quality: fresh water with less contamination. Temperature: 25 – 270C Hydrodynamics: land change, soil erosion, land sedimentation, etc. Recent years (after 1996) watershed forest is heavily destroyed, creating serious erosion and sedimentation that all threat lakebed.
Objectives Natural inundated land of Bien Lac closes the Ong mountain (1,302 m) is planned as a natural conservation area.
Elevation above sea level 120 m in average
Inundated land type 15, 22
Socio-economic values in the area Fishery sounds and tourism can be developed in future
Natural, environmental and landscape values in the area Natural conservation area has bio-diversity and important function of protection for upstream of Tri An reservoir
Importance of wild life in the area Biological condition is suitable for many species of wild life (fresh water, swampy land, etc.) in terms of feed, reproductive season. Lake, swamp, swampy land and many aquatic habitat.
Flora Ever-green forests in the catchment and high mountains in particular are strongly affected, threatening forest protection and wild life at serious levels. Forest area: 7% natural land was covered by forest at March 1999. Major plants: Pahudia cochichinensis, Dalbergia oliverii, Dalbergia conchichinensis, Diprerocarpus alatus and Largerstroemia spp. Aquatic habitat of Alga, Cyperus cephalotus, etc. in the lake and swampy land are abundantly existing.
Fauna Very rare animal because of over exploitation Nearly 40 fish species in the lake are threatened to extinction because of rampant catching. The remaining animals are python, Pangolin and Tragulus javanicus.
Land use pattern Natural fish catching
Annual fish production: 220 kg/ha in paddy equivalence
Affected impacts Protection forest exhausted in terms of water sources (especially in Tri An reservoir), forest damaged seriously, creating more waste lands Slow process of contractual base allocation of forest for local people to protect Less attention of the Management Unit for Natural Conservation Area on function of lake, poor managerial efficiency and much more fallow and waste lands
Countermeasures that have been taken The fixed agricultural land allocated to local household with 47% (1998) This area is located in the Natural Conservation Area of Bien Lac – Nui Ong.
39. YALY RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 14012’ – 15015’ North latitude 107028’ – 108023’ East longitude
Location The reservoir covers Kon Tum city town and districts of Dak To, Dak Ha, Ngoc Hoi and Sa Thay (Kon Tum province) and Mang Yang district (Gia Lai province).
Area 6,450 ha
Management unit Yaly Hydropower Management Unit
General description The reservoir is inundated in the Se San river area and Kon Tum semimountainous area. Climate: Humid tropical climate. Annual average temperature varies 210C – 250C, maximal one of 450C and minimum one of 100C. The total annual temperature is in between 7,700 – 8,7000C. Average annual rainfall of 1,700 – 2,500 mm. The evaporation in dry season is 80%. Hydrology: There consists of 2 main river systems of (a) Dakrong BalahKrong Poko (Dak Psi – Dak Poko branches) and (b) Dak To. There also comprises Yasir, Yaly fall and the Dakbla river coming from Ngoc Linh. The rivers are short and strongly running in rainy season. Whereas the water discharge exhaustion occurred during dry season. Topography: The reservoir situated in the West Truong Son Range with 2 mountains of Ngoc Linh (2,598 m) – Mang Yang and Kon Ka Kinh (1,748 m).
Objectives Hydropower generation, water irrigation provision and micro-climate improvement.
Elevation above sea level 515 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Provision of water irrigation and generation of hydropower.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area Beautiful landscape and attractive to visitors.
Importance of wild life in the area Importance for water birds and migratory birds as well.
Flora Unknown
Fauna The inventory indicates 46 precious animal species, of them group E (12 species), group V (7 species), group R (18 species) and group T (9 species).
Land use pattern Water irrigation and drainage, and provision water for hydropower generation.
Affected impacts Deforestation and fire forest for field cultivation in the watershed area.
Counter-measures that have been taken Not yet
40. Bien Ho
Geographical coordination 140 03’ North latitude 1080 00’ East longitude
Location This region is situated on the highlands where has the trace of ancient volcano, 8km far from Pleiku city town on the North, belongs to administrative area of Pleiku city town, Gia Lai province.
Area 300 ha
Management unit The People’s Committee of Pleiku city town
General description This lake is formed from the action of the formation from effusive volcano, volcano mouth, after the period of effusion and hardly frozen rock, the fresh water is naturally condensed. This lake is on basalt plateau. Topography is slightly gradual, undulating, lake surface is airy Climate: distinct two seasons of the Central Highlands, dry season started from November to April of next year, meanwhile rainy season from May to October.
Hydrology: fresh water is available through the year due to the condense of rainfall and stream water source Process of land formation: on red basalt soil, forestry land is being degraded due to the loss of forest around the lake. Tea cultivation is developed around the lake. Water quality: good, providing domestic water to Pleiku city town, non-pollution.
Temperature: 20-250C Hydrodynamics: variation, soil erosion, sedimentation etc. eroded soil and laterite after the loss of forest coverage around the lake, the amount of deposited material is not much.
Objectives This lake contains fresh water, flood mitigation
Elevation above the sea level 800 m
Inundated land type 24; 25
Socio-economic value of the region Provide water and maintain water level, mitigate flood in flooding season, affect directly to various hamlets, indigenous people.
Natural and environmental and landscape values of the region The trace of lava effusion, sole landscape, large and airy surface water of the lake, much wind, enrich the landscape when the forest is regenerated.
The importance of wild life of the region This lake and near-by areas are favourable biotope with wild life species
Flora Before 1960 it was jungle forest, oil plants prevailed. From 1960 to 1975, the forest was cleared and after that until 1990, the forest was continuously destructed for tea replacement, since after 1990 new plant is being grown again. Main plants in this region are Dipterocarpus alatus, Dipterocarpus tuberculatus, Pahudia cochinchinensis. In the future, afforestation of indigenous plants, natural regeneration, recover of ecological system and construction of eco-tourist zone, are expected to develop.
Those trees with highly economic value and rare value have been destroying tremendously.
Fauna There are 20 phytoplankton species, 2 phytobenthos species, Cyprinus carpio, Tilapia mossambica species, Ophiocephalus etc. many Symbranchus, Iranabengalensis, Lutra lotter, some water birds, 54 zooplanton species.
Landuse pattern Maintain water level and mitigate flood peak in flooding season Aquaculture: has not yet developed, mainly natural catching. Aquatic production within the lake is 3-5 tons/year
Affected impacts Irrigation, fertilizer and plant protection, probably cause pollution
Counter measures that have been undertaken Not yet
41. Nam-Ka
Geographical coordination 120 25’ North latitude 1080 06’ East longitude
Location Comprise 4 natural lakes (and the part of marsh surrounding), belong to Krong Kno district, about 1-2 km from Krong Kno district. Particularly, Ea Snor lake is adjacent to the outside of conservation area, at the far bank of Krong Kno river, but it shares the same natural condition with 3 lakes from the near bank.
Area Total 1,240ha, of which 510 ha is for Ea R’Bin, 250 ha is for Ea Tyr, 220 ha is for Ea Bun and 260 ha is for Ea S’nor.
Management unit 3 lakes Ea R’Bin, Ea Tyr and Ea Bun are under the close control of The Management Board for Nam Ka Natural Conservation Area, Ea S’nor is under the control of The People’s Committee of Krong Kno district.
General description 4 lakes and marsh are altogether situated along Krong Kno river, Srepok river basin (flowing to Mekong river), formed from collapsed lake and ancient river-bed which has just moved, has just eroded, formulate near-by lakes and marshes. The action of Chu Jang Sin meandering stratum and lava effusion period, provide large highland areas, simultaneously, fractures become flow system of the springs and river basins (Krong Ana, Krong No and Srepok) and forming those lakes and marshes in this region. Ea R’Bin and Ea Tyr lakes are covered by hill and mountain ranges with forest, far from the residential area, left many traces of rudimentary area. Two lakes Ea Bun and Ea S’nor are situated in semi-mountain area, in non-forest area, adjacent to the hamlets and cultivation area of local community. Average depth of entire 4 lakes is 12 m (the deepest one are nearly 20 m at Ea R’bin and Ea Tyr).
Tropical climate and seasonal rain are the typical characteristics of this region, with distinct two seasons that are dry and rainy season. Flood regime on Krong Knor river influenced much to existing condition of hydrology of those 4 lakes, however, mean annual rainfall is less varied. Hydrology: belong to the basin of Krong Knor river.
Objectives Conservate Xiem crocodile and solely inundated eco-system on the highlands.
Elevation above the sea level Ea R’Bin:
420 m
Ea Tyr:
412 m
Ea Bun:
384 m
Ea S’nor:
340 m
Inundated land type 15; 24
Socio-economic value of the region Nam Ka natural conservation zone (in the area of two districts Lak and Krong Knor, Dak Lak province) was defined and developed for construction, within the natural conservation area, there are 3 natural lakes that are Ea R’Bine, Ea Tyr, Ea Bun. Unitl now, sufficient value of eco-system of 3 lakes as well as natural conservation have not yet identified for this lake area.
Natural, environmental and landscape values of the region Regulate the climate, hydrological regime on surface run-off and underground water.
The importance of wild life of the region Favourable biotope for wild life species, especially Xiem corkerdi and Pygathrix nemaeus.
Flora
Prevailing aquatic flora at 4 lakes comprise spear-headed, Nenuphar, Phragnites communis, etc. Especially, with great amount as Phytoplankton is in existence (averagely 3 million plants per littre water of this lake)
Fauna There are a number of shrimp, fish species, molluse, amphibian species that live into lakes, rare fauna species as Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis), Lutra lutra, Tortoise with high carapace, autochthonal water bird and some other migratory water birds. Wild life population is down seriously at two lakes where is near residential area (EaBun and Ea Sno), however, it was left at a remarkable level in two lakes Ea Rbin and Ea Tyr. Water-logging biotope, marsh and natural forest on the hill and mountain which are surrounding the lake, provide good conditions for maintenance and development of some wildlife faunas at Ea Rbin and Ea Tyr lake area, especially also favourable ecological zone of some Terrestrial animal species likely Cervus unicolor, Muntiacus muntjak, Pig, Armadillo, Varanus, Indian python, some bird species. The local also gave the new that Crocodile (200 kg in its weight) appeared into Ea Rbin in November, 1998 and in February, 1999, some people from Ea Rbin commune catch few baby crocodiles in this period.
Landuse pattern Conservation of Crocodile species and many other wildlife faunas
Affected impacts Lack of complete scientific files on bio-diversification (based on survey, investigation, study schemes). Especially, no document, no alternative are available for sustainable conservation for eco-systems at those lakes. The inhabitant still come into conservation area for hunting illegally
Countermeasures that have been undertaken Those lakes in Nam Ka within Natural Conservation need to be protected.
42. Lak lake
Geographical coordination 120 21’-120 28’ North latitude 1080 08’-108018’ East longitude
Location Situated at the centre of Lak district, 33 km from Buon Ma Thuot town by bee-line and about 60 km by vehicle road. Lak lake is covered by Lak Jang-Tao, Bong Krang communes, Lien small town and a part of Dak Lieng communes of Lak district, Dak Lak province. This region is bordered by Krong Ana and Krong Bong district in the North, in the East by Chu Yang Sin natural conservation area, it is covered in the West by Krong Ana river, in the South it is adjacent to Dak Phoi commune of Lak district. In 1986, Lak lake is recognized by the State as historical-cultural forest area.
Area Total area of historic heritage is 12,744 ha (658 ha of lake is for Lak lake, 277 ha is for muddy land)
Management unit The Historic cultural forest Management Board of Lak lake
General description Such lake is the natural lake on the central highland, formed by swamp zone of Dak Lak highland. From the top, this lake is covered by a continuously hill system. The deepest level of this lake is 8 m. This lake provides attractive scenery for entertainment, tourist, scientific research, fauna and flora system resources, extremely abundant eco-system of tropical zone.
Climate: is not only characterized by tropical one with little humidity, but also by valley climate. Hydrology: Yearly mean rainfall was 1,700 mm. Rain prolonged from May to October and accounting for 90 % of total annual rainfalls. Mean humidity is about 80-82 %.
Process of land formation: the process of Lak lake formation is taken place in the condition of tropical monsoon climate. Land types from parent rock assemblage substance sample and are very diversified, mainly granite, clay rock, basalt, colluvium, mixed deposited products of stream and river. - Alluvial soil of stream, river at an attitude of 400 m along the stream, river, lake. - Colluvium soil at valley on high hoop of 400-500 m
- Grey soil on granite rock and Redish yellow soil on clay rock at high hoop of 500-600 m. - On high hoop of 600-1000 m, there appeared Yellowish red soil on granite rock. Above 1000 m, there appeared Reddish Yellow humus soil on granite soil
Topography: Due to topographical formation, therefore entire this region is low land area, comprises deposited plains, lake swamp is surrounded by big mountain ranges as Chu Yang Chang (782 m, Chu Yang Reh (1,157 m), Chu Tu Lung Lang (1,278 m), Chu Yang Phe (1080 m). Water quality: Temperature: Total yearly mean temperature is about 8,500 0C. Annual mean temperature is about 23-240C. In Summer season, maximum temperature is 26 0C and the minimum is 20 0C in Winter season. So minimum amplitude in the year is only 60C, contrarily amplitude in a day varied considerably (10-120C). Such proved clearly the characteristic of valley characteristics.
Hydrodynamics: variable, soil erosion, sedimentation etc. Krong Ana, Krong Pach, Krong No run on flat topography, therefore it is very winding, buckling and the process of sedimentation of materials is taken place tremendously, creating big deposited plains Objectives Conserve intactly sole landscape of inundated area on plateau so as to develop its advantage; protect the watershed, bio-environment, culture, tourist, scientific research and the diversification of tropical biology.
Elevation above the sea level 400 m
Inundated land type
15; 24
Socio-economic value of the region Regarding inhabitant’s life, it has great significance on economy for whom are surrounding the region as flood mitigation, water supply for irrigation and drainage, climatic regulation. In additional to the value from aquatic‘s benefit, Lak lake is also the place where has good potential on tourist, attracting a great amount of tourists for their holiday.
Natural, environmental and landscape values of the region Generally, landscape of Lak lake is of unusual excellent, has been known as the famous landscape, was recognized by the State as Cultural-Historical zone in August, 1986. Investment project of Lak lake has been approved in April, 1994. Such place is considered as highly bio-diversification, with abundant fauna and flora. Flora system is characterized sufficiently from evergreen tropical humid close forest and large-leaf forest + coniferous semi-tropical forest. Lak lake is the shelter for fresh aquatic species, and also has a Crocodile which has value on both economy and science.
The importance of wild life of the region The place for immigration bird to enjoy their sleep, also has great importance to water bird.
Flora It has been recorded with 548 flora species, belonging to 116 families. Especially many species have been listed in Red Book of Vietnam. Main crops in the region are Pahudia conchinchinensis, Pterocarpuss macrocarpus, Dalbergia bariensis, etc. Some plants have good value on pharmacy: Panax gingseng, Strychnoos nuxvomica, Hepatica, Amomum echinosphaera etc. Some wood species having economic value are normally concentrated in some families as Fabaceae, Fagaceae, Lauraceae etc.
Fauna In Lak lake, following results from initial survey, there are 3 shrimp species, 2 crab species, 3 snail species, 35 fresh fish species, 3 corbicular and ostrea species. Besides, there are 7 wheel-bearers, 11 aristate, 6 flipper and 2 tunica species on surface water. There also existed some rare species that have been included in Red Book as Crocodile, Bear, Pheasant, Peacock etc.
Landuse pattern Flood mitigation, irrigation and drainage, aquaculture and tourism development
Affected impacts Due to the loss of watershed forest and cultivation made at nearby upland areas, alluvial deposite is taken place. Fish catching still uses electricity jack (5 %) and drage net (3 %).
Countermeasures that have been undertaken The Forestry Management Board for history, environment and culture of Lak lake was established.
43. EA H’RAL SWAMP
Geographic coordination 13021’28” North latitude 108014’22” East longitude
Location The swamp is 90 km far from Buon Ma Thuot city in the North, along with the national road N14 on the Drang commune of Ea Hleo district.
Area 102 ha
Management unit Management Unit of Natural Conservation Area for “Glytostrobus pensilis” in Ea H’ral, Forest Range of Ea H’leo, Dak Lak province.
General description A natural swamp formed in 1981 after a local dam completed for the purpose of water conservancy, then water elevation in the dam has been reduced in 1990, aiming to create favorable conditions for existence of “Glytostrobus pensilis”. Water level remain swallow inundation during rainy season, dominant by swampy lands in year-round. Forest population is featured purely by “Glytostrobus pensilis” for 50 ha, the remaining area covered by swampy land of mixed forest between “Glytostrobus pensilis” and wide-leave plants.
Objectives Conserve gene resources of special precious plant of “Glytostrobus pensilis” that is facing to be extinguished.
Elevation above sea level In average, 760m
Inundated land type
26
Socio-economic values in the area A natural swampy land has an influence on humidity of the eco-system, but construction of dam to block water that would strongly reduce precious value of “Glytostrobus pensilis”, creating low efficiency for cultivation.
Natural, environmental and landscape values in the area This is a natural swamp with forest dominant by precious plant of “Glytostrobus pensilis” that is facing to be extinguished in the world. The area is also an original landscape on the plateau, attracting eco-tourism and scientific research.
Importance of wild life in the area Non importance is found on wild life.
Flora Forest population of “Glytostrobus pensilis” covers an area of 50 ha in together with mixed forest between “Glytostrobus pensilis” and wide-leave plant (mainly by oil plant). Major plants comprise: Glytostrobus pensilis”, Dibderocarpus obtusiforius, Peupacme siamensis, Terminasia tomentosa, Pterocarpus pedatus, Steros permum annamense. “Glytostrobus pensilis” is a precious plant that, threatened to extinguish in the world. This plant is merely found in South China and the Central Highlands (Vietnam).
Fauna There are some species relevant to swampy biotope but not precious value at all.
Land use pattern Conserve “Glytostrobus pensilis”
Affected impacts Main impacts created by land use, forest fire, land reclamation and coffee development.
The current situation of land reclamation and water shortage for coffee irrigation plus with watershed deforestation that all make local people are creating more pressure on 2 natural conservation areas via exploitation of surface and ground water, resulting into water exhaustion in the area. There is a possibility of contamination caused by fertilizer and plant pesticide that are much utilized for coffee cultivation surrounding swamp.
Counter-measures that have been taken Protection measures are conducted by the Province through Forest Range Sub-Department in conjunction with Forest Range Station of Ea H’Leo district. The staff and budget for this task are still limited with 3 persons for forest protection.
44. DA TEH RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 110 North latitude 1060 East longitude
Location The reservoir is located in the Southwest of Lam Dong province belonging Da Teh district. It is 110 km far from Da Lat city in the South.
Area 500 ha
Management unit Lam Dong Water Irrigation Works Exploitation Company
General description The reservoir was built during 1979 – 1980. Climate: Monsoon tropic climate with annual rainfall of 2,880 mm. Hydrology: The Dong Nai river catchment Water quality: Good Annual average temperature: 24 – 250C
Objectives Irrigate water for 2,100 ha of double rice
Elevation above sea level 130 – 150 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Flood control for the area, tourism and aquaculture. After the completion of the reservoir the living condition is accordingly improved.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area Environment and landscape improvement; water table increase and temperature regulation.
Importance of wild life in the area No specific study available but less wild life
Flora Major plants include broadleaf plant (Dipterocarpus spp, Hopea Pierrei, Boggy startwort (Stellaria uniginosa), Chestnut (Castanea),). The high value and precious species are Banian kingwood (Dalbergia bariensis), Michelia spp., Dipterocarpus spp., and Boggy startwort (Stellaria uniginosa).
Fauna Unknown
Land use pattern The reservoir serves for water irrigation and drainage, fresh water supply, fish catching and hydropower generation. Fish exploitation (mainly by natural fish)
Affected impacts Migrated people live and make fields in the basin, causing sedimentation. Illegal fish catching.
Counter-measures that have been taken Since 1994 the local authorities have signed contracts to protect and re-plant forest on the fields of ethnic minority people.
45. DAN KIA RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 120 North latitude 1060 East longitude
Location The reservoir belongs to Lac Duong, Lam Dong province
Area 300 ha
Management unit Da Lat water factory
General description The reservoir was built in 1970. Upper part is forest with people live in. Hydrology: Dong Nai river catchment; upstream of Da Dam river. Land foundation: Feralite soils Topography: Hilly and mountainous areas Water quality: Good Temperature: 20 – 220C There exist of medium soil erosion because of agricultural practices.
Objectives Tourism and water supply for domestic consumption (electric generation in the past and no more at present).
Elevation above sea level 1,400 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Natural fish, tourism (good water quality for city use).
Natural environment and landscape values in the area Environment improvement and climate regulation.
Importance of wild life in the area Unknown
Flora Forest area: 32,071 ha (with forest) and 3,812 ha (without forest) Major plants: Pine and broad-leaf plants In 1997 the man-made forest area in 1997 was 1,622.1 ha
Fauna Unknown
Land use pattern Fishery and tourism activities. The total area for fishing is 300 ha, mainly by natural catching.
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that have been taken Not yet
46. TUYEN LAM LAKE
Geographic coordination 120 North latitude 1060 East longitude
Location The lake situated 15 km far from Da Lat city, Lam Dong province in the South.
Area 200 ha
Management unit Lam Dong Company for exploitation of water irrigation works and Lam Vien Management Unit for Special Forest.
General description Several peninsulas formed after hills were inundated. There are pine forests in these peninsulas. Previously, the lake has another name of Quang Trung. It built in 1978, rehabilitated and completed in 1986. Climate: Monsoon tropic climate Hydrology: The lake belongs to the catchment of Da Nhim river, upstream of Dong Nai river. Topography: Mountains and hills with rather slope. Water quality: Good for domestic use. Temperature: In average, 200C Land change, soil erosion and sedimentation: Sandy dunes are encroaching gradually, and erosion and sedimentation are resulted by concentrated rainfalls.
Objectives Water irrigation and drainage, and tourism
Elevation above sea level 1,400 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Flood control Water irrigation for about 8,200 ha of garden land cultivation
Natural, environmental and landscape values in the area Create environmental landscape and tourism exploitation.
Importance of wild life in the area Importance for water bird
Flora Forest covered area: 17,311 ha Major plant: Pine There is a plan to plant newly 3,000 ha of 3-leaf pine
Fauna No detail survey, however, many water bird have been found
Land use pattern Reservoir for flood control and tourism
Aquaculture Privates are allowed to fish via biding but no detail data available
Hunting Several fish catching and bird hunting are identified
Affected impacts Areas nearby lake are completely cultivated that results in much erosion of catchment. Contamination caused by pesticide with minor affect.
Countermeasures that have been taken The lake situated in the Lam Vien special use forest
47. DA NHIM RESERVOIR Geographic coordination 120 North latitude 1060 East longitude
Location The reservoir is located in Don Duong district, Lam Dong province
Area 900 ha
Management unit The Electric Company N02 – Ministry of Energy
General description The ethnic minority people of 3,000 are living in the upper part with main livelihood of field cultivation, meanwhile the Kinh people in the lower part. The reservoir was built in 1961. Previously, the basin was covered with primitive forests. Climate: monsoon tropic climate. Hydrology: Rainfall – run-off (run-off module of 28 l/s). Da Nhim river discharges into Dong Nai river. Annual rainfall is 1,600 mm. Land foundation: Feralite soils Topography: Mountainous area Water quality: Good with no contamination. Temperature: 20 – 220C Land change, soil erosion and sedimentation, etc. Thanks for forest still exist and not so much agricultural production that soil erosion and sedimentation is negligible.
Objectives Generate hydropower and irrigate water for the Ninh Thuan agricultural area.
Elevation above sea level 1,100 m
Inundated land type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Hydropower generation and fresh fishery (contracted with the Lam Dong provincial army), flood control, water for production and environment improvement.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area Values on environment improvement.
Importance of wild life in the area Unknown
Flora Three-leaf pine and broad-leaf plants are dominant. In 1999, it is planned to plant 1,128.1 ha of 3-leaf pine. The high value and precious species include Forkennia, 5-leaf pine and (Cypress pine (Cusprcessus).
Fauna Unknown
Land use pattern Reservoir serves for hydropower generation, and water irrigation and drainage.
Affected impacts Erosion and sedimentation
Countermeasures that have been taken Not yet
48. SOUTH CAT TIEN
Geographic coordination 11020’ – 11050’ North latitude 107009’ – 107035’ East longitude
Location The National Park of South Cat Tien is 100 km far from Ho Chi Minh city in Northwest and 120 km from Da Lat city in Southeast. The South Cat Tien belongs to Tan Phu district, Dong Nai province, in the national park there is a large area of wetland with high biodiversity.
Area About 4,300 ha
Management unit Management Unit of Cat Tien National Park is under supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD).
General description The area consists of fresh water ponds in year-round, as well as seasonal flooded lakes and swamps. The lakes and swamps are surrounded by mangrove forests in the Cat Tien National Park. The southern part of the national park comprises low land along Dong Nai river, several areas are inundated in rainy season, creating 3 puddles for fish, bird and crocodile. The puddle for crocodile with 30 – 50 ha of surface water year-round. The Tri An hydropower reservoir has been built on Dong Nai river in the South of National Park. The climate in South Cat Tien is featured by monsoon tropic with 2 distinguished seasons. The dry season is from November – December to March – April, meanwhile the rainy one from April – May to October – November. The number of rainy days varies 150 – 190 days/year, monthly rainfall of exceed 300 mm. Annual average of rainfall, temperature and humidity are 2,185.6 mm; 25.40C and 83.6%, respectively.
Terrain topography is intermixed with lakes and swamps, and rather flat. Hydrology: This area belongs to the catchment of the Tri An hydropower reservoir, is surrounded by Dong Nai river in the North and National Park in the Northeast. Its length and average discharge are 90 km and 405 m3/s. There are many spring systems, such as Da Dim Bo, Da Thai, Da Ce Nac, Da Nhor, Da Louha, da Bit, Da Bao, Da Tapoh and Da Semath, almost of them are running to the Dong Nai river.
Objectives Conserve typical ecosystem for the Northeast South area. Conserve gene sources of animal and plant for the South area. Conserve suitable biotope condition for Java rhino, living area for the Thai crocodile and many precious water birds (white-wing swan) as well as others.
Altitude Below 130 m
Wetland type 15; 16; 22; 25.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area The area is typical ecosystem of the Northeast South.
Importance to wild life in the area The biotope is suitable for Java rhino; The living area of Thai crocodile and many precious water birds (white-wing swan) and other precious animal also found.
Flora At present, no available of data on hydrophytes Saccharum spontaneum and Negradia neyraudiana, are dominant 2 species on seasonal inundated grass lands. The Hydrocarpus anthelmintica mixed with Ficus benjamica, are typical for inundated plant in the swampy forests. The wetland areas in Southeast and West of the region are covered by ever- green jungle forest and rich forest with Dipterocarpus alatus, D.dyeri and Anisoptera costata plus with Shoera and Hopea. Rice cultivation is mainly found in the North. Nearby hills featured by decidous forest with Lagerstroemina calyculata, and species Fabarceae such as Azfelia xylocarpa, Dalbergia bariaensis, D. cochinchinesis and Pterocarpus pedatus.
Orchid is very abundant in the wetland site. Inventory of orchid indicates 62 orchid species belong to 28 genera. Some dominant genera are Dendrobium (17 species), Sarcanthus (06), Eria (04) and Bulbophyllum (04). Special values of vegetation: The forest in the area featured by tropical low land mixed forest type. The forest has been seriously destroyed by toxic chemicals dropped by the US Army during the war. Main plants there comprises reeds and several water-resistance wood plants (Barringtonia acutangula, Hydrocarpus) and Xanthophyllum. Spp. The swamp is surrounded by La Nga Bamboo population with condensed thorns and this bamboo can resist water during rainy season.
Fauna Among the total of 56 species of vertebrate animal are clasified rare and precious in the Indochina, the Cat Tien area occupies 20 species of them 18 species proposed by IUCN for protection. There are many residential and migration water birds. A group of 10 – 20 (Gia Day Java) has been registered. Some people believe they give birth in the center of swamp together with egret and heron. Spotted-neck egret is also found there. Other birds are painted stork, white-wing swan, frigatebird, snake-bird, purple heron, Chinese pond heron, little heron, Porsana spp., Mentopidius indicus, black-winged stilt, plover, spotted redshank, Tringa nebularia, T.ocropus, T.glareola, Actitis hypoleucos and capella gallinago. Besides, some spot-billed duck species are also found during migration time.
In the national park, there are abundance of meat-eating birds, such as Padion haliaetus, Milvus migrans, Haliastur indus, Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus, Spilornis cheela and Microhierax caerulescens. Mammals include Hylobates concolor, Elephas maximus, Panthera tigris, P.pardus, Neofelis nebulosa, Bos gaurus, Bos banteng, Muntiacus muntjak, Cervus unicolor and Sus scofha. This area is also a habitat for the last Rhinoceros sondaicus in Viet Nam with the number of about 8 – 10. The Bua Sau is used to be reproductive area for the Crocodilus siamensis that face to be extinguished. Apart from these, Varanus sp. python, snake and turtle species are also found..
Land use pattern Fish catching, hunting, bird-egg and young-bird collecting during reproductive season. Field preparation and forest activities in the areas nearby.
Affected impacts Over- hunting and forest fire through activities for bee-honey collection, precious wood cut, rattan collection, forest product collection and gold sifting, are all great threats to the wetland area. Another threat is the mechanic population growth, consequently forest and wild life are over-exploited for wood and food. Almost the forest area was destroyed by toxic chemicals dropped by US Army during the war, and over-exploited for wood and agricultural production. The forest guard forces are considered weak.
Countermeasures that have been taken The wetland area and forest nearby have been protected in the special use forest of South Cat Tien (36,500 ha). This forest was established in 1978 by the Decision 360 TTg on 7 July 1978 and upgraded to be a national park under the Decision of 194 – CT on 9 August 1986. The former Minister Council (the Government at present) has endorsed feasibility study by the Decision of 08-CT on 13 January 1992. The forest cadres are merely working in the function of controlling forest fire, preventing illegal wood collection, they don’t have any plan for management of wetland area.
In 1998, the State has decided to extend the Cat Tien National Park with the area of more than 73,000 ha. The World Bank and Dutch Government have provided finance to 2 projects for the National Park, aiming to strengthen protection for the Cat Tien National Park.
49. TRI AN RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 11018’22” North latitude 107011’08” East longitude
Location The reservoir is about 60 – 70 km far from Ho Chi Minh city in the Northeast, belonging to Dinh Quan district, Dong Nai province.
Area 32,300 ha
Management unit Management Unit of Tri An Hydropower Reservoir General description The reservoir was built since 1986. The main reservoir is 50 km long and 2 – 15 km wide with the max depth of 27 m. The normal, dead and annual working water elevation are 62 m, 48 m and 50 m, respectively. The total and available capacities are 2.7 billion m3 and 2.6 billion m3, respectively. The designed capacity is 380,000 KW with electricity of about 1.7 billion KW a year. There are 6 machine groups. Reservoir water comes from 2 rivers of Dong Nai and La Nga.
The Tri An reservoir is situated in the area with an annual rainfall of 2,200 mm. The reservoir area has an average rainfall of 2,400 mm. Annual average temperature is 25.40C. The relative air humidity is 82.2%. The loss of water caused by evaporation is 578 mm/year and loss by leakage through the bottom and side is estimated 300 million m3 a year. The underground water is about 7 – 10 m below surface in dry season and 3 – 5 m in rainy season (at the water-division area). The sedimentation alluvial is estimated 1.16 million m3 a year. The time for fill up completely dead capacity is 100 years.
Objectives Flood control, hydropower generation and water irrigation for downstream.
Altitude 62 m
Wetland area type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Electric supplying and water irrigation for 35,360 ha of agricultural lands. Fishery with production of about 1,880 tones a year.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area Climate improvement and landscape for tourism.
Importance to wild life in the area Unknown
Flora The reservoir area is closed to the old primitive forest with many precious plant species but no survey available. There are 1,381 ha (42% of planted forest) of natural forest with dominance of Dipterocarpaceae.
Fauna No survey available
Land use pattern Apart from water supplying for electric generation the reservoir serves for irrigation and fishery with a production of about 1,880 tones a year. Available area for fishing is 23,400 ha and area for fish catching is 10,000 ha. Main activities are to develop caged fish rearing.
Affected impacts Because of water level variation, weather changes, temperature, rainfall, winds and the earth surface movement that would cause erosion in the reservoir, affecting the safe and life of reservoir.
Human activities (visit, tourism, hunting, cutting forest, etc.), are bring impacts to the reservoir. Heavy pollution caused by the caged-fish system and wasted water from plans (sugar cane, rubber, etc.) Impacts caused toxic chemicals: The Tri An reservoir area with a catchment of 15,375 km2 in under the area where dropped toxic chemicals by US Army during the war. At present, many forest areas are not recovered yet. With the rainfall of 2,200 – 2,400 mm the toxic chemicals are running into the reservoir of 32,300 ha of surface, causing toxic concentration very much increased. Soil erosion in the watershed area (Dong Nai – Dak Dzung and La Nga rivers) is appearing strongly in rainy season. Countermeasures that have been taken There exist of a plan for environment and ecology protection of Tri An reservoir. There exist of a plan of settlement and new economic for community of ethnic minority people living surrounding the reservoir and this plan is managed by the Dinh Quan district People’s Committee. A plan for development of tourism resort is being developed.
50. DAU TIENG RESERVOIR
Geographic coordination 11015’ – 11032’ North latitude 106010’- 106030’ East longitude
Location The reservoir is located in semi-mountainous area of the NorthEast South, 90 km far from Ho Chi Minh city in the Northwest, and 30 km far from Tay Ninh province in the Southeast.
Area 172,000 ha Management unit Management Unit of Dau Tieng Hydropower Reservoir General description The catchment area is 270,000 ha, the available and regulated capacities are 1,056.106 m3 and 1,450.106 m3, respectively. Apart from the function of water provision the reservoir discharges 20 – 30m /s in dry season for flushing salinity out, improving water quality for both Sai Gon – Dong Nai river and a part of East Vam Co river as well. 3
The reservoir was built in 1979 and the sub-dam was also embanked in 1979. On 23 April 1981 the inaugural ceremony for construction was officially organized. Objectives Regulate water of the Sai Gon river, supply water for domestic use, agriculture and fishery.
Elevation above sea level 24 m
Wetland type 36
Socio-economic values in the area Very importance not only for Tay Ninh province and Cu Chi district but also for a large area of downstream provinces with millions people.
Natural environment and landscape values in the area Climate regulation
Importance to wild life in the area No specific study available
Flora Unknown
Fauna Unknown
Land use pattern Hydropower; water irrigation and drainage; flood regulation.
Affected impacts Unknown
Countermeasures that have been taken Not yet
51. BAC LIEU BIRD FIELD Georaphic Coordinate Latitude
9o15' North
Longitude
105o 44' East
Location: Bac Lieu bird field is 4 km far away from Bac Lieu town, and 6 km from the current beach in the North, belongs to Vinh Loi district, Minh Hai province.
Local Management Office: Forestry Office of Bac Lieu province
Area:
130 ha
Description: The bird field is a remains of a formerly large coastal forest area. Forestry floristic composition covering over one thirth area of the bird sanctuary is mainly re-afforested and restored in the last years. The forest land is submerged 0.5 meters in depth in the rainy season and dried in the dry season. Tide only has slight effect on canals inside or around the bird field, so the forest restoration process is much limited. Soil with high alum degree and so not suitable for farming. The bird field is a very important habitat for many water bird species and others. This is one of the most important bird sanctuaries and best managed in the Cuu Long River Delta
Purpose Biodiversity Conservation. Habitat provision for water bird species. Ecological Tourism.
Wetland type Mangrove forest marsh is flooded by season in coastland.
History of development The Bac Lieu bird field was created in 1962, and belonged to a farmer at that time. In 1986, it was formally counted up in the list of reserves in Vietnam. During a long time from its prime area of 19 ha to 40 ha in 1985 and up to 120 ha now. In 1989, the Brehm Fund of West Germany assissted a small fund (7,000 USD) to implement the Plan for Bird Field Management and Development. Several activities was performed such as a reservoir for fresh water and creation of a wetlands for habitat to increase the species diversity, to grow suitable trees for bird's nest, to build a watch-tower, posters to introduce the bird field and bird species for education, training, research for the bird ecology and to develop tourism in the region. Since 1993 onwards, by programmes such as 327/CP and 661/QD-TTg, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has provided fund for activities of bird field management and protection.
Vegetational cover Forest vegetational cover is mainly Phoenix paludosa mixed with coastal forest trees such as Lumnitzera, Mallotus, and alum-adaptive trees such as Excoecaria acallocha spined. A few species of mangrove trees (Avicennia) grow in several wetter places by the tide effect. The Phoenix paludosa is quite popular in the bird field. It is one tree, is valuable for birds to build nets and Lumnizera is suitable for the heron. Unfortunately, in 1987, the imported trees (wattle) was growed along small roads inside the bird field. The vegetational cover in the bird field is almost of Sedges, Rushes, Fimbristylis, ..., Hygrophila and Pluchea. There is a belt of land for crops with rice and secondary crops.
11.
Wild animals
This bird field is a place for stopover and feed hunting of many kinds of waterbirds. In 1979, the total society was estimated of 70,000 birds. The society was decreased in a small amount during 80's and now restored because the protection was improved. The main season of breeding and growth is the rainy season from June to September, but sometimes later. 17 species of big waterbirds live in the bird field, including 3 species of Storks (Phalacrocorax carbo, P. fusciconus, P.niger), Pelicans (Anhinga), 7 species of Heron (Ixobrychus cinamomeus I. flavicollis, Nycticorax nycticorax, Ardeola speosa, Butoridesstriatus), 4 spcies of Egret (Egretta garzetta, E.intermedia, E. alba, Bubulcus ibis) and 2 species of Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus, 800 -
1,000 birds, Plegadis falcinellis 1,200 - 1,500 units), some Ibis (Mycteria leucocephala) sometimes fly to the bird field but not staying there long. Currently, there is no publicized data about reptiles, amphibian, and animals. According to surveys in 1996, the amount of birds living in the bird field increased, mayby because the protection has been improved. Or maybe because the indingo forest fire in Dong Tham Muoi in 1995 so there was a bird flow migrated to Bac Lieu bird field. The new alluvial land as well as saltern along the coast beside the bird field have a considerable importance not only to the Herons and Egrets but also to the migratory sea birds and sea swallows as a stopover and habitat in winter for them.
Conservative activities have been done Some management activities have been performed. Among them, somes areas of Lumnitera forest was planted in 1993, brushwoods suitable to Egret to build their nets. Surrounding canals and small dikes along canals were built up to make more comfortable for patrol and protection. A main canal through the bird field was constructed to improve the drainage and leads the salt water running through the bird field. This canal (10 meters width) is a water fence to stop forest fire. A small walkable track was constructed along boundary in the west of the bird field and other track which is walkable in the dry season can help travellers to go through the main biotope in the bird field. A center with some demonstration facilities was established. A saltwater pond (200 sq.m) near the center and a reception at the entry of the bird field was constructed
Land use and ownership Currently, the Bac Lieu Bird Field is managed by the Forestry Office of Bac Lieu province. Activities in the surroundings of the bird field include rice culture, one rice crop, winter rice crop on suitable lands and shrimp breeding marshes in the coastland.
Socio-Economic Value The bird field is a good place for entertainment and service because its location is near Bac Lieu town. Bac Lieu Bird Field is one of the important bird fields in Cuu Long River Delta which attracts a quite large amount of travellers both Vietnamese and foreigners. There are tens of thoudsands visitors annually. The ticket fee is 5,000 Vietnamese Dong per person. Many of international science organizations usually visit, and record films.
Affected impacts danger to the bird field is mainly the illegal hunting of birdies and bird eggs stealing, illegal tree cutting due to ineffective management. In recent years, although the management was considerably improved but the situation of illegal bird catching and eggs stealing is still happening. The conservation is limited due to the bird field size is small and its location is isolated without buffer zone. Maybr a buffer zone can be constructed along the bird field boundaries in the South, East, and North. Insecticide is being used popularly on lands of the bird field surroundings where birds usually come for feed. The main danger to the coastal wetlands region is the continuous destruction of mangrove forest for salt making and establishment of the shrimp breeding marshes. Along boundaries in the North, East and South of the bird field, small fixed residence was created outside the bird field.
Intended Mangement Activities for the core area A management program will be arranged upon determining a clear target for managemnt. Stipulations to the bird field activities will be compiled to determine season and time that the bird field to be opened, activities to be prevented and other regulations. According to that, an instruction board and a bird field introduction board will be published. Schedule to implement intended activities will be built up together with a more detailed plan to provide fund for that. A written text to determine clearly works and responsibilities of all staffs will be compiled. Bird Field management and improvement plan includes repair works and boundary construction, restorating the forest and birds habitat, upgrading and repairing the reception center, watching tower, publishing bird field introduction books, performing the staff training programme, conservative eduction programme for the community and conservation activities should be performed, equipping facilities for birds, animals investigation and study. All staffs must be trained in management, bird classification and convervativve education skill.
Management Activities to the buffer zone. The buffer zone can be expanded to the North, East and South of the bird field. This area is 6 ha belonging to a state-managed farm where one rice crop is cultivated. The People Committee of Bac Lieu town has decided 30 ha of this region to develop the buffer zone. It is necessary to compensate for land and resettle of 29 householders currently living near the boundary of bird field. The activities in buffer zone includes forest restoration, construction of surrounding canals for the buffer zone, resettlement of householders and replantation of 15 ha forest.
52. BAC LIEU BIRD FIELD
Georaphic Coordinate Latitude
9o15' North
Longitude
105o 44' East
Location: Bac Lieu bird field is 4 km far away from Bac Lieu town, and 6 km from the current beach in the North, belongs to Vinh Loi district, Minh Hai province.
Local Management Office: Forestry Office of Bac Lieu province
Area:
130 ha
Description: The bird field is a remains of a formerly large coastal forest area. Forestry floristic composition covering over one thirth area of the bird sanctuary is mainly re-afforested and restored in the last years. The forest land is submerged 0.5 meters in depth in the rainy season and dried in the dry season. Tide only has slight effect on canals inside or around the bird field, so the forest restoration process is much limited. Soil with high alum degree and so not suitable for farming. The bird field is a very important habitat for many water bird species and others. This is one of the most important bird sanctuaries and best managed in the Cuu Long River Delta
Purpose Biodiversity Conservation. Habitat provision for water bird species. Ecological Tourism.
Wetland type Mangrove forest marsh is flooded by season in coastland.
History of development The Bac Lieu bird field was created in 1962, and belonged to a farmer at that time. In 1986, it was formally counted up in the list of reserves in Vietnam. During a long time from its prime area of 19 ha to 40 ha in 1985 and up to 120 ha now. In 1989, the Brehm Fund of West Germany assissted a small fund (7,000 USD) to implement the Plan for Bird Field Management and Development. Several activities was performed such as a reservoir for fresh water and creation of a wetlands for habitat to increase the species diversity, to grow suitable trees for bird's nest, to build a watch-tower, posters to introduce the bird field and bird species for education, training, research for the bird ecology and to develop tourism in the region. Since 1993 onwards, by programmes such as 327/CP and 661/QD-TTg, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has provided fund for activities of bird field management and protection.
Vegetational cover Forest vegetational cover is mainly Phoenix paludosa mixed with coastal forest trees such as Lumnitzera, Mallotus, and alum-adaptive trees such as Excoecaria acallocha spined. A few species of mangrove trees (Avicennia) grow in several wetter places by the tide effect. The Phoenix paludosa is quite popular in the bird field. It is one tree, is valuable for birds to build nets and Lumnizera is suitable for the heron. Unfortunately, in 1987, the imported trees (wattle) was growed along small roads inside the bird field. The vegetational cover in the bird field is almost of Sedges, Rushes, Fimbristylis, ..., Hygrophila and Pluchea. There is a belt of land for crops with rice and secondary crops.
Wild animals This bird field is a place for stopover and feed hunting of many kinds of waterbirds. In 1979, the total society was estimated of 70,000 birds. The society was decreased in a small amount during 80's and now restored because the protection was improved. The main season of breeding and growth is the rainy season from June to September, but sometimes later. 17 species of big waterbirds live in the bird field, including 3 species of Storks (Phalacrocorax carbo, P. fusciconus, P.niger), Pelicans (Anhinga), 7 species of Heron (Ixobrychus cinamomeus I. flavicollis, Nycticorax nycticorax, Ardeola speosa, Butoridesstriatus), 4 spcies of Egret (Egretta garzetta, E.intermedia, E. alba, Bubulcus ibis) and 2 species of Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus, 800 -
1,000 birds, Plegadis falcinellis 1,200 - 1,500 units), some Ibis (Mycteria leucocephala) sometimes fly to the bird field but not staying there long. Currently, there is no publicized data about reptiles, amphibian, and animals. According to surveys in 1996, the amount of birds living in the bird field increased, mayby because the protection has been improved. Or maybe because the indingo forest fire in Dong Tham Muoi in 1995 so there was a bird flow migrated to Bac Lieu bird field. The new alluvial land as well as saltern along the coast beside the bird field have a considerable importance not only to the Herons and Egrets but also to the migratory sea birds and sea swallows as a stopover and habitat in winter for them.
Conservative activities have been done Some management activities have been performed. Among them, somes areas of Lumnitera forest was planted in 1993, brushwoods suitable to Egret to build their nets. Surrounding canals and small dikes along canals were built up to make more comfortable for patrol and protection. A main canal through the bird field was constructed to improve the drainage and leads the salt water running through the bird field. This canal (10 meters width) is a water fence to stop forest fire. A small walkable track was constructed along boundary in the west of the bird field and other track which is walkable in the dry season can help travellers to go through the main biotope in the bird field. A center with some demonstration facilities was established. A saltwater pond (200 sq.m) near the center and a reception at the entry of the bird field was constructed
Land use and ownership Currently, the Bac Lieu Bird Field is managed by the Forestry Office of Bac Lieu province. Activities in the surroundings of the bird field include rice culture, one rice crop, winter rice crop on suitable lands and shrimp breeding marshes in the coastland.
Socio-Economic Value The bird field is a good place for entertainment and service because its location is near Bac Lieu town. Bac Lieu Bird Field is one of the important bird fields in Cuu Long River Delta which attracts a quite large amount of travellers both Vietnamese and foreigners. There are tens of thoudsands visitors annually. The ticket fee is 5,000 Vietnamese Dong per person. Many of international science organizations usually visit, and record films.
Affected impacts danger to the bird field is mainly the illegal hunting of birdies and bird eggs stealing, illegal tree cutting due to ineffective management. In recent years, although the management was considerably improved but the situation of illegal bird catching and eggs stealing is still happening. The conservation is limited due to the bird field size is small and its location is isolated without buffer zone. Maybr a buffer zone can be constructed along the bird field boundaries in the South, East, and North. Insecticide is being used popularly on lands of the bird field surroundings where birds usually come for feed. The main danger to the coastal wetlands region is the continuous destruction of mangrove forest for salt making and establishment of the shrimp breeding marshes. Along boundaries in the North, East and South of the bird field, small fixed residence was created outside the bird field.
Intended Mangement Activities for the core area A management program will be arranged upon determining a clear target for managemnt. Stipulations to the bird field activities will be compiled to determine season and time that the bird field to be opened, activities to be prevented and other regulations. According to that, an instruction board and a bird field introduction board will be published. Schedule to implement intended activities will be built up together with a more detailed plan to provide fund for that. A written text to determine clearly works and responsibilities of all staffs will be compiled. Bird Field management and improvement plan includes repair works and boundary construction, restorating the forest and birds habitat, upgrading and repairing the reception center, watching tower, publishing bird field introduction books, performing the staff training programme, conservative eduction programme for the community and conservation activities should be performed, equipping facilities for birds, animals investigation and study. All staffs must be trained in management, bird classification and convervativve education skill.
Management Activities to the buffer zone. The buffer zone can be expanded to the North, East and South of the bird field. This area is 6 ha belonging to a state-managed farm where one rice crop is cultivated. The People Committee of Bac Lieu town has decided 30 ha of this region to develop the buffer zone. It is necessary to compensate for land and
resettle of 29 householders currently living near the boundary of bird field. The activities in buffer zone includes forest restoration, construction of surrounding canals for the buffer zone, resettlement of householders and replantation of 15 ha forest.
53. DAM DOI BIRD FIELD
Area: 129 ha
Georaphic Coordinate : (Center of the bird field) Latitude
8o56' North
Longitude
105o 13' East
Location: Dam Doi bird field lies near the South Point of Cuu Long River Delta, 32 km far away from Ca Mau town, and 18 km from the current edge of sea, inside Dam Doi Afforestation Yards, Dam Doi district, Minh Hai province.
Genaral Description: The bird field is a small belt of mangrove forest with the height of trees about 10-20 meters, surrounded by Dam Doi river in the West and the remains by canals. It has a canal inside constructed in 1994 to improve protection of the core and facilite tidal flood on the mangrove forest areas. Surface water is salty during the dry season and become brackish during the rainy season (from May to September annually). The forest is always submerged at 1.0 meter in depth.
History of development The bird field was created on tidal mud flat of mangrove forest in 1960. Although toxic chemical was sprayed during the war and land was tranformed for rice crop but destruction was not too serious and up to now the forest is still growing up well. Birds came to build their nets first time in 1964 and became an important place as a biggest habitat for water birds in the South of Vietnam.
Main type of wetlands Wetland is mainly of inland bogs, mangrove marshes and tidal flooded forests.
Vegetational cover Mangrove forest is created mainly by some kinds of vegetational cover : 76.4 ha of Avicenia alba forest, 2.0 ha of Aegiceras, 2.2 ha of Mangrove, 2.4ha of Nipa forest, along canal, 12.6ha of (c©y R¸ng) forest, 0.4ha of date-palm. The forest has three stratums, the top layer strongly developed at the height of 15-20 meters in which Avicenia alba, A.offinalis dominated and others such as Rhizophora and Bruguiera. The middle layer at 8 - 10 meters height includes Aegiceras, Ceriops. Phoenix and Nipa. After the Linda storm (in 1997), log tree communities was quite heavily damaged. Many trees fell or was broken down. The lower layer includes wild (Acrpsticum) and other kind of it. There are a lot of the lianes such as Derris trifoliata and Panicum. In 1992, 21 ha of the bird field has been transformed for shrimp feeding but now that area was fallowed. In 1994, forest was going to be replanted. Currently, the best place to plant forest is lands in the East, just behide the forestry station and other small places located over the bird field. The area has the largest potential in natural seafood, natural water supply and tidal effect was conserved.
Fauna In 1992, About 11,500 birds was recorded in the bird field. The bird species in the field are mainly pelicans, Egrets, Heron, Ibises, Mycteria leucocephala. According to staffs who work in the bird field, sometimes Mycteria cinerea comes to bird field but they do not stay long. The amount of Plegadis falcinellus was strongly decreased in the last 6 years. A Society of flying fox is always present in the bird field. Substitution of investigation and plan (1992) counted up of 35 species of reptiles in which the lizards of Hemid tylus, H. bowringi was popular. Amphibians has 11 species: 6 species of small frogs, 3 species of bull-frogs, 1 species of treefrog, 1 species of toads. 16 species of mammal were found, the most common is Pteropus vampirus and Rattus flavipectus. 9 species of mammals presenting in the bird field are rare and valuable species and ranked in the Vietnamese Red Book. Two species of mammals: the Otter Lutra Perspicillata and the Felis Chaus, two species of bird: Ciconia Episcipus, Halcyon Coromando and 5 species of reptiles: Python Reticulatus, Ptyas Mucosus, Bungarus Fasciatus, Ophiophagus Hannah, Cuora Amboinensis.
Counter measures that have been taken This wetland was recognized as a bird field in 1986. There are 4 staffs woking in the bird field. Security guard of the bird field belongs to the Forestry
Station for the mangrove forest, the People Forestry Office, Ca Mau province. There is no exploitation of any kind of resources such as fishing, product collection, caltivation. A surrounding canal was constructed in 1994 just behide a canal system as boundary of the bird field. The surounding canal to protect the bird feeding place and to improve the tidal flooded condition stabilizing mangrove forest development here. Forest was replanted in the center of the bird field, in 1995, 5 fallowed shrimp spuares were replanted.
Land use and ownership The bird field is managed by the People Forestry Office of Ca Mau province. Surroundind lands belongs to the householders, formerly was cultivated lands but now they were transformed for shrimp feeding.
Socio-Economic Value The bird field brings benefit for the surrounding agricultural land because there are many species of insect hunting birds. Further, bird shit is as feed for the algas and the zooplanktons and in turn as feeds for fish and shrimp in the surroundings next to the bird field. If more species of birds gather in the bird field, It becomes more attractive to travellers and for Ecobiotic-travelling activities to be implemented in the bird field. Currently there is very few scientists and foreigners visit to the bird field ( there were only 5 delegations in 1995). The bird field was as source of supplying mangrove saplings to plant forest in the surroundings.
Affected impacts Last time, large amount of bird eggs and birdies were stolen for food and sales. This situation together with the destruction of a part of the bird field are the cause to decrease birds number. However, the construction of a surrounding protective canal, the illegal activities now were under better control. Construction of a dike next to the bird field for rice growth and shrimp feeding has broken and limited natural flood to the bird field. Some of encroached houses in the bird field in 1995 near the South boundary, according to the bird field staff, should be moved. The bird field without buffer zone is also one obstacle for the protection. The best solution is to attract farmers to take part in the field protection, to axplain them its importance as a reserving source of creatures to bring benefit for them in their shrimp production and feeding. On the other hand, part of surrounding bird field area with its vegetational cover is as a natural buffer zone. This facilitates considerably for managing and conserving the bird field.
Future Mangement Activities Future management activities will mainly focus on surveillancebe and restoration of bird habitat, visitors management, education programme management and improvement of living and working conditions for staffs. The folowing works will be taken: allocation and repairment of the bird field boundary to stop any illegal penetration, restoration of habitat and forest. A small canal should be constructed to restore natural hydrographic regime of the surface water source and tidal flood to maintain the mangrove forest. Two line of shade trees can be planted on the dike which are fruitful trees such as custardapple, ect to attract birds, together with the tamarin-tree or some other local trees as white ivy, cajuput, nipa, date-palm, ect. These trees provide more place for bird's net. Repair of available dikes lying outside the boundary of the bird field and of other dikes tentatively constructed inside the field. Some foot bridges should be built. Two bird-watching towers when constructed will serve visitors and also for security guards. In the conversative education aspect, staffs will be equiped for the conservative education such as a atlas to introduce the bird field, posters of common bird species, field instructions books, binoculars. Materials for education will be arranged including bird field management regulations. The field will be provided with cameras, projectors. A reception center and a showroom ( 10 x 10 sq. m) will be constructed at the management board office. A environmental education programme at the school and also for farmers will be initiated to improve their awareness on bird and mangrove forest conservation, encourage the local people to participat in bird field protection. Staffs should be trained in bird classification and wetland management as well as educational technique for conservation. Tourism and entertainment should be promoted. An inventory of florae and faunae (amount, allocation, breeding habitat) was proposed to implement in 2 years. A biological map at the scale of 1:5000, 1: 10000 will be drawed in detail about status of vegetational cover type, water surface, breeding habitat, ect. which are main information to scheme bird field management. A planning map at the same scale is useful to improve habitat such as maintenance or pointing out habitats that should be given priority to develop as much as possible the species diversity of creatures.
Follow- up activities on hydrography, quality of water and wild animals will be performed at the bird field. In order to watch the bird society, two survey should be implemented regularly in three years (one to be taken in the rainy season and other in the dry season). Three watching towers should be established. Residence for bird field staffs will be renewed and expanded. A well with water tank is necessary for each tower. An electric generator should be equiped for the Management Board Office. A Radio Cassette is also necessary for cadres and staffs in the bird field to exchange relations Boats and power-boats should be equiped for patrols and visitors. Expenditure for uniform, footwear, ect. should be provided. Regular expenses in every 5 years to maintain and upgrade the bird field should be supplied.
54. DAM DOI BIRD FIELD
Area: 129 ha
Georaphic Coordinate : (Center of the bird field) Latitude
8o56' North
Longitude
105o 13' East
Location: Dam Doi bird field lies near the South Point of Cuu Long River Delta, 32 km far away from Ca Mau town, and 18 km from the current edge of sea, inside Dam Doi Afforestation Yards, Dam Doi district, Minh Hai province.
Genaral Description: The bird field is a small belt of mangrove forest with the height of trees about 10-20 meters, surrounded by Dam Doi river in the West and the remains by canals. It has a canal inside constructed in 1994 to improve protection of the core and facilite tidal flood on the mangrove forest areas. Surface water is salty during the dry season and become brackish during the rainy season (from May to September annually). The forest is always submerged at 1.0 meter in depth.
History of development The bird field was created on tidal mud flat of mangrove forest in 1960. Although toxic chemical was sprayed during the war and land was tranformed for rice crop but destruction was not too serious and up to now the forest is still growing up well. Birds came to build their nets first time in 1964 and became an important place as a biggest habitat for water birds in the South of Vietnam.
Main type of wetlands Wetland is mainly of inland bogs, mangrove marshes and tidal flooded forests.
Vegetational cover Mangrove forest is created mainly by some kinds of vegetational cover : 76.4 ha of Avicenia alba forest, 2.0 ha of Aegiceras, 2.2 ha of Mangrove, 2.4ha of Nipa forest, along canal, 12.6ha of (c©y R¸ng) forest, 0.4ha of date-palm. The forest has three stratums, the top layer strongly developed at the height of 15-20 meters in which Avicenia alba, A.offinalis dominated and others such as Rhizophora and Bruguiera. The middle layer at 8 - 10 meters height includes Aegiceras, Ceriops. Phoenix and Nipa. After the Linda storm (in 1997), log tree communities was quite heavily damaged. Many trees fell or was broken down. The lower layer includes wild (Acrpsticum) and other kind of it. There are a lot of the lianes such as Derris trifoliata and Panicum. In 1992, 21 ha of the bird field has been transformed for shrimp feeding but now that area was fallowed. In 1994, forest was going to be replanted. Currently, the best place to plant forest is lands in the East, just behide the forestry station and other small places located over the bird field. The area has the largest potential in natural seafood, natural water supply and tidal effect was conserved.
Fauna In 1992, About 11,500 birds was recorded in the bird field. The bird species in the field are mainly pelicans, Egrets, Heron, Ibises, Mycteria leucocephala. According to staffs who work in the bird field, sometimes Mycteria cinerea comes to bird field but they do not stay long. The amount of Plegadis falcinellus was strongly decreased in the last 6 years. A Society of flying fox is always present in the bird field. Substitution of investigation and plan (1992) counted up of 35 species of reptiles in which the lizards of Hemid tylus, H. bowringi was popular. Amphibians has 11 species: 6 species of small frogs, 3 species of bull-frogs, 1 species of treefrog, 1 species of toads. 16 species of mammal were found, the most common is Pteropus vampirus and Rattus flavipectus. 9 species of mammals presenting in the bird field are rare and valuable species and ranked in the Vietnamese Red Book. Two species of mammals: the Otter Lutra Perspicillata and the Felis Chaus, two species of bird: Ciconia Episcipus, Halcyon Coromando and 5 species of reptiles: Python Reticulatus, Ptyas Mucosus, Bungarus Fasciatus, Ophiophagus Hannah, Cuora Amboinensis.
Counter measures that have been taken This wetland was recognized as a bird field in 1986. There are 4 staffs woking in the bird field. Security guard of the bird field belongs to the Forestry
Station for the mangrove forest, the People Forestry Office, Ca Mau province. There is no exploitation of any kind of resources such as fishing, product collection, caltivation. A surrounding canal was constructed in 1994 just behide a canal system as boundary of the bird field. The surounding canal to protect the bird feeding place and to improve the tidal flooded condition stabilizing mangrove forest development here. Forest was replanted in the center of the bird field, in 1995, 5 fallowed shrimp spuares were replanted.
Land use and ownership The bird field is managed by the People Forestry Office of Ca Mau province. Surroundind lands belongs to the householders, formerly was cultivated lands but now they were transformed for shrimp feeding.
Socio-Economic Value The bird field brings benefit for the surrounding agricultural land because there are many species of insect hunting birds. Further, bird shit is as feed for the algas and the zooplanktons and in turn as feeds for fish and shrimp in the surroundings next to the bird field. If more species of birds gather in the bird field, It becomes more attractive to travellers and for Ecobiotic-travelling activities to be implemented in the bird field. Currently there is very few scientists and foreigners visit to the bird field ( there were only 5 delegations in 1995). The bird field was as source of supplying mangrove saplings to plant forest in the surroundings.
Affected impacts Last time, large amount of bird eggs and birdies were stolen for food and sales. This situation together with the destruction of a part of the bird field are the cause to decrease birds number. However, the construction of a surrounding protective canal, the illegal activities now were under better control. Construction of a dike next to the bird field for rice growth and shrimp feeding has broken and limited natural flood to the bird field. Some of encroached houses in the bird field in 1995 near the South boundary, according to the bird field staff, should be moved. The bird field without buffer zone is also one obstacle for the protection. The best solution is to attract farmers to take part in the field protection, to axplain them its importance as a reserving source of creatures to bring benefit for them in their shrimp production and feeding. On the other hand, part of surrounding bird field area with its vegetational cover is as a natural buffer zone. This facilitates considerably for managing and conserving the bird field.
Future Mangement Activities Future management activities will mainly focus on surveillancebe and restoration of bird habitat, visitors management, education programme management and improvement of living and working conditions for staffs. The folowing works will be taken: allocation and repairment of the bird field boundary to stop any illegal penetration, restoration of habitat and forest. A small canal should be constructed to restore natural hydrographic regime of the surface water source and tidal flood to maintain the mangrove forest. Two line of shade trees can be planted on the dike which are fruitful trees such as custardapple, ect to attract birds, together with the tamarin-tree or some other local trees as white ivy, cajuput, nipa, date-palm, ect. These trees provide more place for bird's net. Repair of available dikes lying outside the boundary of the bird field and of other dikes tentatively constructed inside the field. Some foot bridges should be built. Two bird-watching towers when constructed will serve visitors and also for security guards. In the conversative education aspect, staffs will be equiped for the conservative education such as a atlas to introduce the bird field, posters of common bird species, field instructions books, binoculars. Materials for education will be arranged including bird field management regulations. The field will be provided with cameras, projectors. A reception center and a showroom ( 10 x 10 sq. m) will be constructed at the management board office. A environmental education programme at the school and also for farmers will be initiated to improve their awareness on bird and mangrove forest conservation, encourage the local people to participat in bird field protection. Staffs should be trained in bird classification and wetland management as well as educational technique for conservation. Tourism and entertainment should be promoted. An inventory of florae and faunae (amount, allocation, breeding habitat) was proposed to implement in 2 years. A biological map at the scale of 1:5000, 1: 10000 will be drawed in detail about status of vegetational cover type, water surface, breeding habitat, ect. which are main information to scheme bird field management. A planning map at the same scale is useful to improve habitat such as maintenance or pointing out habitats that should be given priority to develop as much as possible the species diversity of creatures. Follow- up activities on hydrography, quality of water and wild animals will be performed at the bird field. In order to watch the bird society, two survey should
be implemented regularly in three years (one to be taken in the rainy season and other in the dry season). Three watching towers should be established. Residence for bird field staffs will be renewed and expanded. A well with water tank is necessary for each tower. An electric generator should be equiped for the Management Board Office. A Radio Cassette is also necessary for cadres and staffs in the bird field to exchange relations Boats and power-boats should be equiped for patrols and visitors. Expenditure for uniform, footwear, ect. should be provided. Regular expenses in every 5 years to maintain and upgrade the bird field should be supplied.
55. ONG TRANG NATURAL RESERVE
Georaphic Coordinate : Center of the Reserve at Latitude
8o43' North
Longitude
104o 50' East
Location: Ong Trang Natural Reserve includes two islands with total area of 1,540 ha lying at the West-South Point of Ca Mau peninsula, at the mounth of Cua Lon River, belonging to Ngoc Hien village, Minh Hai province, 80 km far away from Ca Mau town.
Description: The reserve includes two small islands and two banks of Big Mounth river, there is no resident in Con interior island and Con exterior island (total 235 ha). The interior island locates nearer mainland. The interior island appeared 30 years before as a alluvial mud flat. The exterior island appeared later. Both islands continuously expanded to the sea at the average of 25 meters annually. The interior island has areas of 20 ha in 1970, 50 ha in 1976 and 112 ha in 1993. It is anticipated that at least the two islands will be together to become only one island. Deposit material is mainly drifted mud brought by Big Mouth river and tidal flow. At the water edge, the mud flat is exposed during the low tide. Soil is created by very fine clay. The ground is more higher and harder at side near mainland. The salinity is usually high due to the sea near by, 30-36 gr per litre in the dry season and 20 gr per litre in the rainy season. Ground layer and ground creating condition is ideal for mangrove forest cover to develop naturally. The soil is not suitable for cultivation. This new land does nt help much for water birds but it surely has a potential to be an important residence when the protection activities is performed effectively. Management initiation is intended to focus on allocation of boundary, habitation restoration, facilitation for visitors, patrol, living condition improvement for staffs and buffer zone development.
Vegetation Mangrve vegetational cover developed well on both islands, presenting very symbolic duration of initial vegetational cover from lower at water edge to higher and more far away to the mainland. Highest tree is about 15-20 meters. The vegetational cover is not much disordered on almost of the western part of the exterior island. There is only mangrove species growing up in the last 5 years. Mangrove forest also presents different stages specifying forest layers and their age. All dominated species of mangrove forest in Ca Mau peninsula are presented here. The mangrove plant association includes natural regenerated forest combining pure Rhizoptera , Bruguiera and Avicennia alba forest. The intermediate stage with a combination of Rhizoptera - Avicennia alba - Aegiceras is less common than association of Avicennia alba - Rhizoptera - Aegiceras. In mangrove forest, there are also (Lylocarput, Hibicus tiliaceus), Rhizoptera, Acanthus, (Acrosticum aureum). The dominated species are white Avicennia alba, Avicennia officinalis, Avicennia marina, Bruguiera gymnorhiza, Rhizophora apicalata. Avicennia marina with its special root system and high salinity adaptation, encroaches at first the new mud flat, creating dense stands along the river mounth and clay belt near by the sea edge.
Wild animals 21 species of birds, 5 species of amphibians, 5 species of reptiles were recognized in the reserve. The popular species of birds is white stork, grey heron, cormornat, white-breast swallow. There are flocks of sea swallow at the mud flat and bank of river. As known white stork breed only at Ong Trang. Mudy flat and shallow water areas in the Western of both islands are all suitable feeding grounds for migrant wetlands birds and other species living near by the sea edge. Effective protecton is only the matter of time before the reserve becomes residence, stopover of bird species. Tree cover together with big mud flat will provide feeding ground and residence for migrant sea birds during the winter.
Countermeasures have been done The reserve was established according to the Decision No. 513/TTg issued on September 18, 1993 by Prime Minister. The main target of the reserve is to present the process of natural development o mangrove forest in Cuu Long River Delta with its function to protect the coast, to provide residence for wild animals, to provide saplings for the surroundings. The reserve is devided into 4 subregions. Those are:
+ A very strictly protective subregion includes Con interior island, exterior island and all high tidal flooded areas (235 ha). In this subregion, it is not allowed to collect forestry products, to dig canal, to buid dike and houses, ect. + Ecosystem restoration subregion includes both side of the river in the North and the South of the river mounth at the width of 100-700 meters from mainland upto the watermark (total 1,265 ha). Illegal activities include replantation of the forest in shrimp ponds, visit of travellers, study. it is not allowed to exhaust resources, to cut trees, hunting, cultivation. + Natural subregion for management office construction and services, port (5 ha) in the North of the reserve. + Buffer zone is a belt of 350m around the reserve. It is intended not to allow fishing in a distance of 100m from the river bank. In buffer zone, it is allowed to develop forest upto 70% of total area and 30% for shrimp. A management board of 5 peoples now will be responsible for managing the reserve. Cadres an staffs are paid by People Forestry Office of Ca Mau provice and report to the office. A small house (18 sq. m) was constructed in the Southern bank of the river and a power-boat was used for patrol work. There is no other facilities. Activities were taken such as office build-up, patrol, plantation of forest on shrimp square. Expenditure was paid by state budget.
Land use and ownership The reserve is of state ownership. Land is formally used to conserve the nature and seed collection was allowed outside the land with forest. Informal use such as tree cutting, shrimp square build-up (at least on the Southern bank of the reserve) and fishing, shrimp, crab, arca catching are not allowed.
Socio-Economic Value Socio-Economic Value is received on the following aspects: Nature conservation, collection of seed, wood, firewood and provide feed for aquatic species.
Affected impacts Main restrictions to protect the reserve, currently are: + Tree cutting, seed gathering and wood. + Shrimp square build-up in the reserve (now gradually decreased). + Lack of clear regularions and rules for conservation
+ Lack of clear boundary in the field + Lack of local people's knowledge in the function and value of the reserve + Lack of instruments, capital, lack of facilities for management board operating.
Intended Mangement Activities in the core a/ Repair and allocation of boundary Allocation of the reserve's boundary and other inside subregions by sign boards and canals digging to isolate it with protective forest belt along the river banks and buffer zone. Dike is not built-up during canals digging because it may stop the tide to the buffer zone. These canals can be used as ways for protective patrol. b/ Resident Restoration and replantation of forest Fallowed shrimp squares inside the reserve sould be reafforested with mangrove. New mud flat at river's edge will be left for natural regeneration of mangrove tree species. Planted area is 288 ha. All high earth-banks should be moved for ease of tidal flow flooding. c/ visitors and entertainment control Intended activities include: + Construction of a watching tower at an important point, a showroom and a reception center. + Purchase of a boat for tours ( ported near the reception center). + Printings of instruction books and introduction books, posters. d/ Conservative education programme Introduction and printings about the reserve to all members of people community, schools, ect. and visitors. Introduction books also present conservative regulations. Practical guideline and handbook about the birds identification are necessary for management staffs and visitors. Bird species description boards and popular tree scpecies presenting in the reserve should be built near the reception center. Conservative Education Programme will be arranged to improve the conservative knowledge and local people's active assisstance. Local people can be trained according to the reserve operations such as visitors guidance, boats rental, ect. e/ Survey and Patrol
Daily patrol is necessary, including checks of people's in and out and control of all conservative violations. It is necessary to build a detailed time schedule for the patrol. f/ Wild animals study and watching It is necessary to investigate plants and build the plant distribution and residence map, to inventory number of birds and birds society. Birds society watching will be implemented in a cycle of three years (one in the rainy season and one in the dry season).
Management Activities in the buffer zone. a/ Buffer zone development Buffer zone is created around the two islands including a belt of 100m width of water surface ( Big Mouth river). It is intended to prohibit fishing in this area, and to establish the same zone of 100 m width along the river bank inside the reserve. on the river bank, land belonging to the reserve will be regarded as an important protective area as determined in this project. Behide that area, the buffer zone isolated with the important protective area by a canal depending upon Government stipulations. b/ Resettlement In the important protective area, there are two residential areas located at the South and North of the two islands at the Big Mounth river's bank At the South of river bank, the fixed residential area has 41 householders (21 of householders are temporarily resided). At the North of river bank, there are 21 householders who have resided for a long time but now they have just resettled. According to the government decision, these householders will resettle and be compensated. In the buffer zone, 70% of area to be used for forest development and 30% for shrimp feeding.
56. CAI NUOC BIRD FIELD (CHA LA)
Georaphic Coordinate : Center of the bird field Latitude
8o58' North
Longitude
105o 06' East
Location: Cai Nuoc bird field lying near the South Point of Cuu Long River Delta, 25 km far away from Ca Mau town in the West-South, and 30 km from the current edge of sea in the East-South, belongs to Cai Nuoc district, Ca Mau province, 0.5 m height in comparison with sea level.
Total Area: 20 ha Description: The bird field is a mangrove forest remaining between rice field and shrimp marsh. Thick combined vegetational cover includes brushwoods, nipa and some other kinds of trees of the secondary forest such as date-palm. The bird field was surrounded by agricultural land, a lot of canals and land tenure. forest inside the bird field is residence and breeding place of a big amount of water birds species as well as others of Cuu Long River Delta. The bird field was protected since 1940's. Recently, the field protection was considerably improved by canal digging, dike building along its boundary. Lands next to the bird field was used for intensive rice crops and shrimp square
Vegetational cover Vegetational cover in this wetlands is of multiforms from brushwoods to timbers including two specific species of mangrove forest such as date-palm, nipa. These are specific trees species of the inshore forest type. Almost of the vegetational cover here was degraded in quality but restored by protection work improvement in last years. The vegetational cover supplied residence for many species of birds including water birds. Almost of the mangrove forest was degraded and replaced by the date-palms, and scattered nipa, aegiceras, bean sprouts and lower trees layer is (Acrosticum aureum). Creepers such as water rattan, ect. . A total of 52 broadleaf species was counted.
Wild animals In the last years, Cai nuoc bird field is regarded as one of three largest breeding areas of the eater birds in Cuu Long River Delta. 30 species of water birds come to make nets and breeding in the field, in which largest amount are stork, podiceps ruficollis, purple heron, snipe, spotted dove, moorcock, heron, white stork. The bird field is a valuable place for birds' breeding an eggs laying which includes wild goose (100 units), Ibis (500-600 units), and shrike, painted stork was also found in the bird field.
History of foundation The bird field was created in 1940, during colonial time, it was of private ownership. In 1970 onwards, it was under the People Committee of Cha La district. In 1979, it was published as a bird field and in 1986, it was inventoried in the list of wetland areas in Vietnam and under the management of People Forestry Office, Ca Mau province.
Counter measures have been done In years 1993 - 1994, according to the Decision No. 327/1993/CP, construction of a surrounding canal and surrounding dike improved considerably the protection conditions here. A watching-tower was established in the bird field and other small one was established at the boundary of the field. A laudable action of farmers living at the bird field boundary is that they agreed to take part in the bird field protection on a condition that they are allowed to catch shrimp in the surrounding canal. Management activities is intended to focus on allocation of the boundary, regulations to visitors, patrol and living improvement for management staffs.
Land use and ownership The bird field is state-owned and managed by the People Forestry Office. The nearest village is Tan Phong. There are only 25 householders in Tan Phong village. Householders mainly till the field and plant vegetations. A little area of shrimp square was developed in West-Southern boundary of the bird field.
Socio-Economic Value The bird field is one of few places having water birds in the Cuu Long River Delta. Their direct value is not high. There is no visitors. The bird field still has potential in conservative education, study and bird watching.
Affected impacts in the past, this place was considerably disordered by man. Illegal penetration to steal birdies, bird eggs for food and sale is the main factor to effect the bird field. beside that tree cutting, firewood collection, leaf cutting for cottages sometimes happened. However, patrol for protection was considerably improved since a surrounding dike was constructed. With a small and isolated reserve area, a buffer zone will facilitate protective work.
Future Mangement Activities Allocation, landmarks, sign boards should be implemented on the dike and near the management board office, at the bird field entry/exit. Two line of shade tree on the dike around the bird field should be planted, the suitable trees are tamarind, ect. . Some works for a better landscape was proposed near the office and the bird field entry/exit. A watching tower is tentetively established at the bird field boundary. A wood-paved way to the tower from the entry of the bird field should be constructed which contributes to control visitors. A reception center and small showroom is intended to construct near the entry. The conversative education for the community includes book publishment to introduce the bird field, instruction boards, birdlife showroom in the bird field and a reception center. Other facilities such as instruction books, binoculars, cameras with telelens, projectors are necessary. A regular patrol will be scheduled. Encourage of farmers living near the bird field boundary to take part in bird field protection will be continued and widened. Activities of wild animals study and watching like bird surveys and number counting should be regularly taken in every three year. one survey will be taken in the rainy season and other in the dry season and a map about habitat and vegetational cover will also be implemented. Staff will be trained in management of the buffer zone and knowledge to determine the bird species. Staffs residence should also be renewed and expanded. it is necessary to equip them a electric generator. A well for living water and water tank should be built. It is also necessary to equip a power-boat for patrol and tours.
57. DAT MUI SPECial use FOREST
Georaphic Coordinate : Center of the Reserve is at about Latitude
8o37' North
Longitude
104o 46' East
Location: Dat Mui specific forest is at the far of Ca Mau peninsula, belongs to Ngoc Hien village, Ca Mau province. The average height is approx. the sea level.
General Description: The reserve is a remains of the largest mangrove marshes belt as known together with alluvial flat area at the Western cape of Ca Mau peninsula. The reserve was created in 1987. At that time, mangrove forest was still very thick, feeding an abundant wild animal resource. However, in over last decade, tens of thoudsand hectare of mangrove forest covering over the Southern part of the Ca Mau peninsula. This situation largely affected to the known biodiversity source of the reserve. Formerly, people collectively settled at Rach Tau, Linh Dao and Ap Mui. From 1988, 879 householders penetrated and settled in the core area until October 1995. Almost of them came from different places in the province, and they are the poor and the illiterate. there are only below 10% of peopled being regarded as the literate. October 1995, complying to the instruction of Prime Minister, almost of them moved out of the core area to settle in different places. This plan was implemented together with a programme of resettlement by Ca Mau Forestry Agency. All of the people there live by wood cutting, firewood collection and especially Rhizophora forest cutting for wood and Nipa leaves cutting for roofing their house. Land in the Dat Mui specific forest is not suitable for agriculture due to the alum and salt heavily contaminted soil. Dat Mui mangrove forest depends on the half daily tide regime ( tide up and down two times per day), tidal amplitude is about 0.5 meters at low tide and 1.0 meters at high tide. Salinity is about 25o/oo desreasing to 18-20o/oo after heavy rain. Muddy accumulation on Dat Mui area is very quick. Particularly at the East-
North of that accumulation area, the sea edge expands 100m annually. But, the Southern sea edge is seriously eroded 30-50m per year. Effectively protective activities is urgently required for the specific forest. Dat Mui specific forest has been counted in the list of Asian wetlands which is one of the most seriously threatened wetlands in Asia.
Vegetation Dominated salt-flooded plant is Avicennia and Rhizophora apiculata in the second rank. The mangrove forest expands to the sea 100m annually. If the ecological conditions and natural environment for the development of mangrove forest still exist, and people's passive activities such as wood cutting, charcoal, hunting, shrimp ponds making, ect. to be stopped, then the mangrove forest ecosystem will be restored in a duration of only 3-5 years.
Wild animals In the years 1980-1990, mangrove forest in the region was regarded to have an important role to the wild animals, especially with the birds such as pelican, stork, night heron, heron, painted stork, spot-billed duck, moorcock. However, when almost of the tree species which is suitable for birds to build nets was cut, then the abundant well-known bird society was also largely decreased. Many species of other kinds of animals was also disappeared or killed. Wild boar, otter, wildcat, monkey, deer, and many other species used to appear in this area, but due to strong press of the social activities, many races of those species maybe no longer to exist. If the protection is effective and the resident restoration to be improved then societies of wild animals will be restored. Especially with birds, new residences maybe re-established because the favourable condition has been improved. This can be achieved by replanting forest in combination with suitable management and protection.
Countermeasures have been taken The reserve was created according to the Government Decision in 1985 with 4,472 ha. The main purposes of this reserve are: + To conserve the biodiversity and Gene source; + To conserve the mangrove forest breed resource; + Study, scientific exprimentation; + To experimentalize a complex of Forestry-Fishery
+ To perform entertainment and tourism. The reserve is devided into three subregions: + A very strictly protective subregion is the Western part of the reserve, area is 1,717 ha, next to the Dat Mui afforestation yards in the East and the buffer zone in the West. In the strictly protective subregion, all activities affects to terrain, scenery, lands, resources are prohibited including shrimp feeding, settlement and forest planting on the bare land is not necessary because it is left totally for the natural process. + Ecosystem restoration subregion includes 1,621 ha in the West of the core area. This area was protected for natural regeneration of the degraded forest. Rhizophora forest was replanted on the bare land. + Subregion for study and experimentation includes 1,123 ha in the West of the buffer zone from Rach Tau to Ca Mau cape. This subregion was reserved to develop Forestry-Fishery complex, to provide firewood, on-site uses, study and experimentations.
Land use and ownership The reserve is state-owned, under management of the People Forestry Agency. The utilization of land, resources was formally prohibited but in fact, tree cutting for wood and firewood together with shrimp squares building still happned. Charcoal making. fishing also happened commonly and widely.
Socio-Economic Value The reserve has a special importance to maintain the productivity of inshore seafood fishing that thoudsands of people depends on. The reserve also has a survival improtance to regulate the dynamic and form of geomorphology as well as to protect the seashore. Existance of thoudsands of people depends on the land and resource of the Dat Mui specific forest surroundings; They seek for food, grass, medicine, materials to build houses and many other products in the forest and food source of fish and shrimp as well. The reserve is also the one to provide landsape for entertainment, nature learning and that brings benefit to the local people. Some materials suppose that this area is as a largest remained mangrove forest in Vietnam. The "Action Programme for Biodiversity " regards the Dat Mui natural reserve as the "Best mangrove Forest in Viet Nam". This document also suppose that this area brings a "very important" source of biodiversity.
Restrictions and affected impacts: Restrictions currently exist :
+Conservative Eduction, staffs ability, and sources for conservation is limited +Unclear boundary, lacks of sign board +Illegal residents should be resettled completely +Phenomenon of high population increase (both natural and mechanical) +Lacks of knowledge and ignorance to the value and benefits of forest resource +Tree cutting for charcoal, wood to build houses and other uses such as for funitures, sale, ect. +Some forest areas was transformed for shrimp squares +Wild animal hunting +Natural products collection in the core area (including tree cover for tan making) +Dike, banks build-up stopped the effects of tide and flow to the mangrove forest +Lacks of facilities, materials and fund +Lacks of staffs training +Education programme for conservation and other facilities +Ineffective management.
Mangement Activities for the core area A series of activities has been already prepared to improve the management and protection of the Dat Mui specific forest. That are: a/ Repair and allocation of boundary Drawing a map of detailed land use status and the reserve scheme map is the first priority. Allocation of boundary between the core and the buffer zone as well as sign board at the boundary in the field. Two canals ( 3.0 km each) in the South to allocate the boundary between the core, the buffer and protective belt. Total 22 barriers should be established at canals through the reserve (by floating trees or long buoys with anchors) to prevent illegal penetrations into the reserve. b/ Resident Restoration and replantation of forest Tota area of Mangrove forest in the core and the buffer area which should be replanted, is 987 ha ( formerly it was used for shrimp square). New alluvial land
areas in the North of the core and buffer areas will be reserved for Avicennia alba to regenerate naturally. Smoothing the lands, dike and earth-bank breaking will be performed for a natural flood of the flow and tide. Dredging the Cai Doi canal bed to improve the flow should be done. c/ visitors management and entertainment Introduction books, posters for Dat Mui specific forest should be prepared. Tours on canals will be performed only when the forest is improved. Two watching towers will be built. Roads with sign boards to the watching towers will be constructed. d/ Education programme for conservation A small visitors center (10x15 sq.m) including a showroom is intended to construct near by the Management Office. Programme for conservative education should be edited to propagate and educate the local people and at school. e/ Survey and Patrol Patrol should be much more considered. Regulations to conservation will be published and concretized by notice boards placing at important positions. Government and Local Authority Policies to the future use of the reserve will be clearly published. f/ Wild animals study and watching The successful level of the programme to replant forest in every 3 years will be recorded. Bird society development watching will be done also in every 3 years with two surveys in a cycle ( one in the rainy season and other in the dry season). g/ Work-force There are necessary subjects for staffs in the Management Board of the reserve to be trained in which the subjects on wetland protection, bird species identification, wild animal and forest resource statistics, conservative techniques are given high priority. Communication facilities for each protective station should be improved. Four available protective stations should be renewed and equiped with funitures. Additional three stations to strenthen protection for the reserve should be considered. h/ Facilities and Materials It is necessary to add more transport facilities for patrol and supervision. Other necessary things are: + Binocular: 25 units + Two cameras with telelens
+ 1 projector + 1 Video set (with TV) + 25 instruction boards to determine bird species in the field
Intended management Activities in the buffer zone. According to the rule in buffer zone development, 70% of area will be used for forest and 30% for shrimp squares developments. The buffer zone in the South and North of the core will be a protective forest belt as a part of important protective area. It is intended to scheme clearly the boundary between two narrow land belts lying along the banks of Rach Tau canal with total area of 56 ha which is reserved for the resettlement programme.
58. The Vo Doi natural reserve.
Geographical coordinations The center of the area is at about 9o North, 104o55’ East. Location Districs U Minh and Tran Van Thoi, 40 km far from Camau city in the North-West. Area The original area of Vo Doi was 3.724 ha. However, the People Committee of Ca Mau has carried out a project to increase the total protected area up to 10991 ha. Managing unit The Vo Doi’s managing board, Ca Mau Forest Inventory Division.
Objectives To protect natural resources and biodiversity of the Melaleuca forest ecosystem.
Types of wetlands Cajeput forests and season-inundated floodplain meadows The history of the area Vo Doi is located in the Lower U Minh. Before 1975, the Lower U Minh cajeput forests was the most famous wetland for its biodiversity, abundant fauna and flora and rich aquaculture resource. Nearly the whole area represented cajeput forests grown on the peat bog which has a long history of formation. In 1986, this place was designated as Vo Doi natural reserve with an area of about 4000 ha. In 1998, during the land-use planning for U Minh, the People Committee of Ca Mau province expanded the protected area towards Tran Van Thoi and U Minh III farms for forestry and fisheries, thus made total area of 10991 ha. And this significantly
rose the value of the area, for the expanded area embraced large mature cajeput forests and season-inundated floodplain meadows.
Social-economical values of the natural reserve The reserve represents: - An abundant source of wood, log and cajeput seedlings; - An aquaculture resource; - A place for recreation; - Historical, cultural and social remains. Environment and landscape protection values The reserve represents a unique habitat of the Lower U Minh that is located within the coastal floodplain of Ca Mau peninsula. It has a special significance for the environment and native landscape protection. The peat layer below the cajeput forests has been considered as an ancient stratum of South-East Asian. The cajeput forests control the alum formation of the earth, and in service to the adjacent areas they maintain the ground water level during dry season, store animal and plant genetic resources and provide aquaculture and wildlife breeds. If this reserve is well protected, then many rare animals will hopefully be restored.
The importance of the conservation area to the wildlife The reserve is characterised by very high level of avifauna diversity. This is a inhabitat for 82 bird species, the most abundant among them are small ibis (Ixobrichus) and warbler (Porphyrio porphyrio). The large long-tailed minivet (ph−êng chÌo ®á lín) and small gray minivet (ph−êng chÌo x¸m nhá) species are usually seen in the mature forests. The appearance of four rare bird species of Cuu Long delta, such as kite (Milvus migrans), gray king crow (Dicrurus leucophaeus), Pellorneum ruficeps, large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhyncos) and also some other species, such as deer (Cervus unicolor), Malay python (Python sp), has been registered in the conservation area. Fruit bat (Pteropus sp) has been quite popular here.
Natural conditions The conservation area lies in the hot tropical and rainy belt. The prevalent monsoon includes north-east wind during November-April and south-west wind during April-October. This area has the highest rainfall in Cuu Long delta with the average value between 2200-2500 mm, the maximum of 2810 mm and minimum
of 1940 mm. About 90% of the total annual rainfall occurs during rainy season and the number of rainy days is 165 days per year. The average relative humidity is 85.6% and average evaporation rate is 1004.7 mm. The highest evaporation rate of the year is registered during February-April. The average temperature is 26.5 oC. The average lowest temperature of the month is approximately 24 oC. The average number of sunny hours is 6 hours/ day.
This is a coastal tidal floodplain which has been created as the result of retreating sea and sediment deposition processes. The landscape is relatively flat. The average height is about 1.0-1.2 m (above the sea level). The whole area is affected by the West sea tide through the canal systems with tidal amplitude of approx. 20-25 cm. However, the aquatic environment of the reserve is regulated by a drain system so that saline water usually can not enter the area. The soils belong to three main groups, such as shallowsaline active alum earth, shallow-saline potential alum earth and alum earth. During the rainy season, the water environment is usually slightly acidic (pH 6.4) and coloured in dark red. In the beginning of the rainy season, the pH of water in the adjacent areas can be lowered to 4.5. Vegetation The main floral habitats in the conservation area include semi-native and cultivated cajeput forests and seasonal-inundated meadows. The semi-native cajeput forests are distributed in the north of the reserve and represent two-layer forests. The upper layer consists of big trees of 15-20 cm in diameter and average 18 m in height. The lower layer consists of trees of 10-18 m height that are regenerated trees of mixed ages and concentrated in the open areas under the mother trees layer. The forests also contain other plant species, such as (bïi) Ilex cymosa and (mãp) Alstonia spathulata. Among climbing plants, (cho¹i) Stenochlaena palustris grows in abundance. Reed (Phragmites) is also common in the area. The planted forests are of mixed ages and distributed in the east part of the conservation area.
On the meadows, (n¨ng ngät) Eleocharis dulsis is a popular plant. Besides, one can find many herbaceous plant species, such as sedge (Cyperus halpan, C. polytachryos), bent Panicum repens, Cayratia trifolia. The reed communities (Phragmites vallatoria) are also popular. On the canals, plant species are very abundant, including eichhornia (Eichhornia crassipes), bÌo c¸i Pistia stratiotes, bÌo tai chuét Salvinia cucullata. Along the canal banks, the main cultivated plants are banana and other vegetables.
Land use pattern The land of the reserve is managed by the government through the Managing Board of Vo Doi acting as the direct representative. Farming activities are forbidden in the central zone. However, the experimental and business subdivisions use 560 ha for building comprehensive farming models for the local people through the land and forest renting contracts. The aquaculture production is permitted only within the central and experimental comprehensive farming zones. The main farming model is cultivation of fish and rice and other agricultural products on the banks. Hunting for birds and animals in the central zone is strictly prohibited.
Affected impacts The major threat to the reserve is fire. In 1995, about 20 ha has been burnt down. During the following years, the managing board tried to prevent fire by keeping water in the reserve so the land has been always wet. However, this method has a drawback, as long-term flooding slowes the growth of the forests. Another threat comes from lack of knowledge of the conservation methods and ways of sustainable use of biodiversity resources. This can lead to actions like taking plans that divert the land-use planning previously established. Countermeasures that have been taken The conservation area has been established in 1986, starting with only one managing/ protecting post. Since 1993, many managing/ protecting methods have been implemented through a funding project. The area was divided into different sub-regions, for each of them specific managing methods have been applied to suit its natural conditions and level of biodiversity. Testing means for prevention of fire is an important activity that has been carried out yearly. Also, programs and means for community education/ propaganda and development of the buffer zone were realised. Future plans Some plans for managing/ protecting the forests have been made, such as building funding projects for the development of this natural reserve, including redefining the area borders, building the monitoring and research programs, developing eco-tourism and buffer zone. At the same time, it is extremely urgent and important to strengthen working capacity for the reserve’s managing board through training and equipping technical devices. This must be done as soon as
possible in order to enhance the effectiveness of the management activities of the reserve.
59. The Upper U Minh natural reserve.
Geographical co-ordinations The center of the area is at about 9o North, 105o05’ East. Location The Upper U Minh natural Reserve Area 21.800 ha, including a central zone of 8.100 ha and a buffer zone of 13.700 ha. Managing unit The Division for Agricultural and Rural Development of Kien Giang district. Objectives To protect natural resources and biodiversity of the cajeput forest ecosystem with the cooperation by local people communities. To develop eco-tourism and disseminate local historical values. Types of wetlands Season-inundated inland swamps and meadows. The history of the area Before 1975, the Upper U Minh cajeput forests were the most famous wetland for its biodiversity and rich forest and aquaculture resource. Nearly the whole area represented cajeput forests grown on the peat bog which has a long history of formation. After 1975, this area was managed by the 103 Forestry Farm, which later was renamed as Upper U Minh Forestry Farm. And later, this Farm was divided into two farms: the Upper U Minh 1 of An Minh district and Upper U Minh 2 of Vinh Thuan district. In 1993, the Kien Giang province’s people committee decided to establish the Upper U Minh Natural Reserve which became a part of the national special use forest systems.
Social-economical values of the protected area The conservation area represents: - An abundant source of wood, log and cajeput seedlings; - An aquaculture resource; - A place for recreation; - Historical, cultural and social remains. Environment and landscape protection values This wetland has a particular significance for the environment and native landscape protection of Ca Mau peninsula. The peat layer below the cajeput forests has been considered as an ancient stratum of South-East Asian that hides many unstudied mysteries. The cajeput forests control the alum formation of the earth, and in service to the adjacent areas they maintain the underground water level during dry season and help their sustainable development. This wetland represents a typical habitat of the coastal floodplain. It also contains many historical remains that reflex different stages of the social development.
The importance of the conservation area to wildlife The Upper U Minh wetland is regarded as a place with the highest species abundance among the wetland reserves of Cuu Long delta. Here, 205 plant species, 20 mammal species, 33 reptile species and 11 amphibian species have been found. Recent expeditions have registered 138 species of birds, of them many rare birds, such as (giµ ®Éy lín) Leptotilos dubius, (giµ sãi) L. javanicus, (cß nh¹n) Anastomus ositans, black-head ibis (Thresklomis melanocephalus), black stork (Plegadis falcinellus). Otter (Lutra sumatrata) and (r¸i c¸ vuèt bÐ) Aonyx cinerea are rare species that have been found in this reserve. Among 10 black fish species listed, white catfish (Clarias batrachus) and (c¸ cßm) Notopterus chilata are registered in the Red Listing of Vietnam.
Natural conditions The conservation area lies in the hot tropical and rainy belt. The average annual rainfall is above 2000 mm. About 90% of the total annual rainfall measured during rainy season. The average temperature is between 26.5-27.3 oC. This is a coastal tidal floodplain which has been formed as the result of retreating sea and sediment deposition processes. The landscape is relatively flat. The average height is about 1.0-1.2 m (above the sea level). The whole area is affected by the West sea tide through canal/ drain systems. The soils belong to
three main groups, such as shallow-saline active alum earth, shallow-saline potential alum earth and alum earth. During the rainy season, the water environment is usually slightly acidic (pH 6.4) and coloured in dark red. The DO is rather low (2.4 mg/l). COD is 18.46 mg/l. Other concentrations are: CO2, 39.04 mg/l; Ca++, 32 mg/l and Mg++, 29 mg/l.
Vegetation About 205 plant species have been found in this reserve. Cajeput (Melaleuca cajuput) represents the main cover plant grown in large and thick populations (quÇn thô). Cajeput and (tr©m) Eugenia sp are highly valuable wood plants which provide wood for the local people. Food plant species represent (dín) Polypotrya appendiculata, cho¹i Stenochlaena palustris grown under the cajeput leaf canopy and water lily (Nymphae stellata), nipa palm (rau dõa) Fussicuae repens, water morning-glory (Impomea sp) grown on the ponds. The reed communities (Phragmites vallatoria) are dominant on open swamps. However, (n¨ng) Eleocharis dulsis, Cyperus halpan, C. polystachios... are also popular.
The wildlife fauna In this reserve, 20 mammalian species, 33 reptile species, 11 amphibian species and 138 birds species of birds have been registered.
The aquaculture resource About 30 algal species, 20 zooplankton species and 9 species of zoobenthos have been listed. The freshwater fish communities consist of about 10 species, of them 2 species are rare species registered in the Red Listing of Vietnam. The annual total fishing yield in the cajeput forests counts to about 5000 tons. The natural fishing productivity of the cajeput forests is of approx. 150-200 kg/ha per year.
16. Social economy The buffer zone accommodates 3675 families, each of them is given 4 ha for agricultural production. The total population is 18.852 people belonging to three main ethnic groups: Kinh (92%), Khmer (7.7%) and Hoa (0.5%). The main farming models are forestry-fishery, forestry-agriculture-fishery and forestryfishery-rice production. The average rice productivity is approx. 1.5-2 tons/ crop
per hectare. Papaw gives very high productivity. Freshwater fish, such as snakehead, black damselfish and black catfish (c¸ lãc, c¸ sÆt, c¸ r«, c¸ trª) are of high economic value.
Threats and challenges The living standards of people surrounding the reserve are still very low. These people have not yet been educated to have high perception of the reserve’s values and knowledge of sustainable use of wetland resources. Therefore, they still continue activities like wildlife trapping, forest cutting and causing forest fire. On the other hand, approaches for sustainable management such as forest hydrology and fire represent contradictions that need to be reconciled. Also, means, equipment and funding provided to the reserve’s managing board have not yet met the protection requirements.
Countermeasures that have been undertaken Since the establishment of the reserve in 1993, the government has been investing tens milliards VND for building 140 km of canals, digging 120.7 km of fire control canals, improving 27.4 km road, cultivating and nursing 7,892.6 ha of forests, building 40 ha of seedling forests and 110 ha of nursery gardens, 11 water regulating gates and funding economic models for 1093 families. Within the framework of the CARE project, 2.035 millions USD has been funded for activities such as biodiversity monitoring, hydrological and forest fire research, research on the formation of peat bog and the dynamics of forest resources. The CARE project has also carried out many activities in infrastructure development, agriculture extension, forest plantation, environmental education and credit in the buffer zone of the conservation area.
Future plans To achieve the objectives of the reserve, such as protection of natural resources and biodiversity of the cajeput forest ecosystem with the co-operation by local people communities, development of eco-tourism and education of the historical values, following activities have been suggested:
To build a program for the development of eco-tourism; Research on the biodiversity and the scientific bases for biodiversity conservation, research on the peat bog, forest hydrology and fire;
To build action programs for the buffer zone, including building the infrastructure, credit investment, development of the forest budget and agricultural extension; A program for strengthening working capacity for the reserve’s managing board has been outlined. This program aims mainly at training and providing relevant equipment and devices for the workers of the conservation area.
60. thanh Phu Wetland Natural Preservation Park Geographical co-ordinates: North Pole: 9057’’40”N, 106032’58” E South Pole: 9050’05” N, 106032’56” E
Location: Thanh Phu Wetland Natural Reserve is 55 km east of Ben Tre town and in the administration area of three communes, namely: An Dien, Thanh Phong and Thanh Hai of Thanh Phu district, Ben Tre province.
Area: The area of the Natural Reserve is 4510 hectares, the area of buffer zone is 4315 hectares.
Management unit: Management Board of Thanh Phu Wetland Natural Reserve directly belonging to the Ben Tre Agricultural and Rural Development Department.
Description: Thanh Phu mangrove forest (Ben Tre province) is a special wetland area in Mekong river’s estuary. Water environment is strongly affected by Mekong River and South China Sea. Among aquatic creatures living here, there are typical species for fresh water, brackish water and salt-water environment. Pioneer and the dominant plant species in this area live in brackish water environment, whereas in other seashore areas are those who live in high salinity environment. This wetland area was recognized as Natural Reserve in 1998. Prior to this time, in 1995, the Ministry of Culture and Information has issued the decision No.3777-Q§/BT to recognize Thanh Phu area as the “historical relics of North - South weapon receiving bridge-head”.
Objective To preserve biodiversity and creature model in Mekong river’s estuary. To prevent and preserve environment, provide nutrient for aquatic creatures
supporting production activities in the area along the coast. To preserve the historical relics “North - South weapon receiving bridge-head”. To build up the forestry social structure appropriate with the forest management, protection and development targets. To improve rural infrastructure, increase the living standard and community awareness on values of wetland ecosystem and methods to sustainably utilize wetland natural resources.
Type of wetland Mangrove forest marsh in estuary, Swamp in estuary, in area along shoal sea.
History of the forest In the past, Mekong River estuary area was a naturally distributed place of brackish water plants living in river mouth, of which Sonnerattia and Nipa plants took the predominance. During the war, the forest was destroyed by toxic chemicals. After 1975, local people have reforested in combining with rearing aquatic creatures. The major planted mangrove was tree Rhizophora apiculata. In 1998, with the support of Forest Investigation and Inventory Sub-Institute II, Ben Tre People Committee proposed to the Government for building up Thanh Phu mangrove forest into a wetland Natural Reserve. Prime Minister has issued Decision No. 1026/TTg in 1998 to officially recognize Thanh Phu mangrove forest as a wetland Natural Reserve and invest to establish this area.
Socio-economic value of the area This Natural Reserve provides with small wood, fire wood, and aquatic products for local peoples through activities utilizing wisely natural resources of wetland ecosystem, deals with local people’ nutrition and fuel demand. The mangrove forest provides natural seeds for the formation process of natural forest in salty swamps along the coast, and protect production activities as well as local people from such natural disasters as storm, wave, and sea breeze. Thousands of people living along the coast of Thanh Phu are depended on natural resources of the Natural Reserve. During the period of 1994 - 1996, forest-fishery cultivation activities had created annual benefit from 250 million to 300 million VND. Thanh Phu Natural Reserve was originally a base of revolutionary solders during the national liberation wars. Especially, during the Vietnam War, this is field-combating port of special boat trips conveying weapons from the North to the South. The Natural Reserve has become a sacred land, a local precious historical relic.
Environment-landscape value Thanks to the influences of Mekong River and South China Sea, landscape and natural environment in Thanh Phu has special distinctive features, which are totally different from other areas along the coast. This is the transition area between mainland and the sea, and under the impact of sea water and fresh water flowing from Mekong River. The geomorphology is a comprise of flood-tide plains and flood-tide plains behind mounds with sand mounds paralleled the coast. In rainy season, water environment changes into the brackish water one. Plants living in brackish water predominate, Sonneratia caseolaris society predominates areas along river estuary, Avicennia alba society and other species live inside the area.
The importance of the area to wild animals This Natural Reserve is of special importance to aquatic creature society. There are 96 fish species have been identified in this area, of which there are 63 salty water fish species (63.54%), 32 brackish water fish species (33.33%), and 3 fresh water fish species. High commercial-value fishes of Priacanthidae species account for 54.43%, scad, anchovy, lizard-fish, flying fish, makerel, 23 cuttlefish species of 3 families, common fish species with high commercial value are Logilo formosana, Seproteuthis lessoniana, Sepria tigris. This area is also the inhabitation of 20 shrimp species including 12 sea shrimp species, 8 fresh water shrimp species (of which seven species belong to Palaemonidae family and one belongs to Caridae family). Major shrimp species in this region are high value ones such as Penaeus indicus; Metapeneus ensis, M.lysanassa and M.spinulatus. Breed oysters is reared in the area of around 100-120 hectares. This breed oysters field is a precious resource to rear oyster for exporting and meeting the domestic demand. Wild animal system includes 27 reptile species, 8 amphibian species, 16 mammal and 60 bird species. Some of them are rare and under danger such as: Gekko gekko; Varanus salvator; boa; copperhead; krait. Some animal species living here are Lutra perspicilata, Felis viverina, Pelecanus philipensis, Mycteria cinerea.
Natural conditions: The Natural Reserve is under the influence of monsoon tropic climate with two separate seasons, dry and rainy season. The annual average temperature is 26,60C, with the highest temperature of 28,40C in April and lowest temperature of 24,30C in December. The average humidity is 83,7%. The annual rainfall is 1454 mm, with the number of rainy days is 126 days /year which is distributed unevenly among months during the year.
Hydrographic rule in this region is strongly affected by tide (South China Sea) and water level (Mekong River). The tide ups and downs twice a day in the first and the fifteenth day of the lunar month. There are 2-3 Apring tide days and 2-3 ebb-tide days after the 8th and 23rd of the lunar month. On food-tide days, the tidal average height is 3,7-3,8 m with the highest level of 4,2 m in July and the tidal average amplitude is 1,9-2,0 m. Most of land in this region is flooded by tide. In the mouth of the river, it is 1,0 - 1,5 m below the surface, whereas in the medium level terrain inside forestry farm, it is 0,3 m- 0,5 m and it is 0,2 m for sand mounds. There is a clear difference of the water environment in the region during the rainy and dry seasons. The annual water temperature disparity is in the range of 4,9 - 8,50C. The highest temperature, which has been observed and tested, is on March and April. The lowest observed one is on December and January. In most positions of the Natural Reserve, the salty level of water reaches the highest value from 8,09 to 20,6% at the beginning of the rainy season (June), and the lowest value ranging from 1,96 - 6,01% in November. The disparity of salty level between water inside and outside shrimp rearing ponds is slightly (under 340/00). pH value of water is usually neutral or rather alkaline except in some places where the measured pH value is 6,8 or 6,9. The different level of pH value between water in shrimp rearing fields and in channel is around 0,1 - 0,3. Geomorphic units include: seashore mounds, tide area, mangrove swamp area behind mounds. In the Natural Reserve, there are 2 major types of land: sandy mound land and salty alluvial land under mangrove forest. Sandy mound land is located along the coast and on high mounds, which is utilized for agricultural production. Due to the light alluvium content, poor nutrient of the sandy land, it is necessary to use fertilizers for planting. The coastal line shows unstable characteristics, which is highlighted by erosion and deposition activities. The erosion area stretches approximately 5 km as a result of natural process’s influence such as sea current, tide, north-east wind, wave’s activities. In several recent decades, the erosion and deposition processes have occurred strongly with the erosion level form 20 - 30 m /year.
Flora and Fauna It is initially inventoried that the composition of vascular plant’ species in the Natural Reserve includes 119 species belonging to 45 families. They are: big trees (15 species), herbes (39 species), small trees (19 species), lianes (15 species), brushes (22 species), procumbent plant (5 species), and parasitic plant (4 species). Significant families are Rhizophoraeae, Verbenaeae, Sonneratiaceae, Combretacaeae. Of these species, 10 species is planted and 109 other ones grow
naturally. The dominant species with natural origin are Sonneratia, S.ovata, Rhizophora mucronata, Avicennia alba. The current plant species which is afforested with largest area in the region is R.apiculata. Generated by mangrove forests, the humus is the basis of significant food chain of the estuary ecosystem.
Aquatic product resources 185 phytoplanktons species were identified in rainy season of 1986. In the dry season of 1998, there were 93 zooplanktons species with the density ranging from 49.508 - 132.875 animal /m3. 90 zoobenthos species have been identified. Most of these zoobenthos live in the brackish and seawater environment. In the rainy season of 1996, 96 fish species were identified including 63 salty water fish species (63,54%); 32 brackish water fish species (33,33%), and only 3 fresh water fish species. The shrimp resource includes 20 shrimp species: 12 sea shrimp species (belong to 5 families), 8 fresh water shrimp species (of which seven species belong to Palaemonidae family and one belongs to Caridae family). Major shrimp species in this region are high value species such as Penaeus indicus; Metapeneus ensis, M.lysanassa and M.spinulatus. Breed oyster appears scatterly in deposition ground along the coast, located mostly in the sandy field between Bung mound and Tra mound with the area of about 100 - 120 hectares.
Population: The total population in the region is 8301 of 1656 households. There are 1470 people of 273 households living inside the Natural Reserve. The average population growth rate is 2,1 - 2,3 %. Cultivation activities include growing shortterm plants such as peanut, watermelon, pachyrrhizus, etc.. and rearing cattle, poultry, fish, and vegetables. Aquaculture (shrimp, crab, oyster, arca, especially shrimp growing in salty wetland) is a rather popular activity and brings about high income for many families in the past years. Besides, there are also several nonagricultural activities such as fishery, oyster catching, trading, working, etc..
Land use: The total area of this Natural Reserve is 4510 ha, including strictly protected subzone of 1788 ha, and the scientific research and important protected subzone of 2722 ha. The Natural Reserve is directly managed by the Management Board. This board has signed the contract with households to manage and conduct forest-generating activities. The area of surrounding is 4315 ha. The land use right in surroundings area is belonged to the households.
Affected impacts This is a crowded area with scattered terrain and poor infrastructure (transportation, health care, education, and shortage of electricity and water supply). People live is hard with low income as well as poor cultural and professional level. Local people still lack of awareness on the value of wetland ecosystem and methods of sustainable utilization of the ecosystem resources. In order to restrain the coastal area from erosion, it is necessary to invest properly, combine irrigation measures with afforestation and protection solutions. The staffs of forestry fishery farms lack of information and do not have much chance to exchange technical scientific information. Their professional capacity does not match with the forest protection and development need. The insufficiency of operating equipment as well as low income are main factors which influence the staff’ performance.
The conducted protection measures The conducted measures to manage the Natural Reserve are strict prohibition on activities which lead to the exhaustion of natural resources such as: cutting down trees and destroying forest, hunting wild animals, or activities which brings about negative effects and pollutes the environment such as digging channels, damming up, building industrial establishments, rearing and growing animals and plants with unknown origin. The park has already set up a landmark system, intramural regulation board system aimed at educating local people on intramural regulation and management rules. Guard positions and observation towers to meet the visit and scientific research demand have also been established. Management in historic relics is increased in order to limit negative effects on them,. Another measure is afforestation combining with activities on prevention and fighting against erosion. As to the general management experimental research subdivision, it is natural regeneration promotion together with sparse prune methods to entirely utilize firewood and small timber for essential need of local people. Research on applying technical forest-generation methods to improve and raise sustainability of Forest-Aquatic creature ecosystem via managing water regulation, regulating tree density aimed at meeting the demand of Forest-Aquatic Creature cultivation system‘s sustainable utilization, have been done. Research on hydrographic rules, water quality, forestry seed and aquatic creature breed has been conducted. Measures for improving the agricultural cultivation system on sandy mound land to lessen bad impacts of agricultural cultivation activities on environment are also researched.
20. Future projects In 1998, Prime Ministers approved the investment project on the Natural Reserve in the period of 1998 - 2003. This project includes 6 action programs. These are: 1. The program on managing forest protection aims at establishing boundary system, internal regulation, and land management. 2. The forest development program contains activities on division for growing and protecting forest, afforestation in erosion coast area and dispersedly tree growing. 3. Research program on wetland forest’s sustainable utilization is to form scientific and practical foundation for activities to wisely manage forest resources. 4. Infrastructure construction and improvement program. 5. Program on education and propagation and ecological travel organization aims at increasing the effectiveness of ecosystem. 6. Program on supervising environment impacts and project performance effectiveness includes such activities as supervising water environment characteristics, trend of wild animal, socio-economic conditions, aquatic creature rearing and shrimp’s disease, conditions on environment and community’s health and effectiveness of park management business.
61. The Lang Sen wetland, Long An district
Geographical co-ordinations 10o44’ - 10o48’ North, 105o45’ - 105o48’ East.
Location At a distance of 60 km North of Long An town and 40 km from the border between Vietnam and Cambodia.
Area 3877 hectares.
Managing unit The people committee of Vinh Hung district, Long An province. Description The Lang Sen wetland is located in the area of two communes Vinh Loi and Vinh Dai of Vinh Hung district, Long An province. This area lies in the monsoon tropical climate region with the average temperature of 27.3 oC. The average annual rainfall level is approx. 1440 mm. About 90% of the total yearly rainfall occurs during rainy season. The landscape is relatively flat. The average height is about 1.5-2.0 m (above the sea level). The soil types represent deep-stratum active alum earth and deep-stratum potential alum earth. Natural drains, swamps, ponds and canal system link this area with Vam Co Tay river. Many places are permanently inundated. The vegetation represents mainly cajeput forests, meadows, permanently- or seasonal-inundated lotus and lily ponds. Sixty one species of birds has been registered. The aquatic communities consist of mainly representatives of inland swamps, such as snakehead (c¸ lãc), c¸ sÆt, climbing perch and catfish (c¸ trª). This place is regarded as one among the adjacent feeding-grounds for the waterfowl from Tram Chim National Park and a resource of freshwater aquaculture breeds/ seeds for Dong Thap Muoi.
Objectives To protect Lang Sen wetland for conserving its biodiversity, providing local communities with wood, fuel, vegetables and aquaculture products through wise use of the wetland resource, for assisting scientific research and tourism and contributing to mitigate calamity and pollution.
Types of wetlands Permanent inundated swamps, cajeput forests and season-inundated meadows.
The history of the area Lang Sen wetland is located at the head of Vam Co Tay river. This is a freshwater floodplain which is permanently inundated. The main vegetation represents cajeput forests, lotus/ lily pools and riparian flora. Lang Sen had been a revolutionary base during the wars of resistance against the French colonialists and American imperialists. In 1993, the people committee of Long An province launched a project to make this area a provincial natural reserve. Lang Sen represents one of small wetlands remained in Dong Thap Muoi. However, their values have not yet been fully estimated.
Social-economical values of the protected area - Provision of wood, log, fish and vegetables; - A reserve of historical remains; - Conservation of genetic resources and natural breed resources.
The reserve‘s values for natural environment and landscape 1) Lang Sen is a relatively large wetland left in Dong Thap Muoi that remains more or less native. If well managed and protected, this place will bring significant contributions to the conservation of biodiversity of the inland lower Mekong basin.
2) Lang Sen wetland consists of many natural canals and low lands such as pools, ponds, ancient deposited sediments and sand hillocks etc. that created the highest geo-morphological diversity among the wetlands of Dong Thap Muoi. This is an essential natural factor ensuring the diversity of habitats, species and native landscape. 3) Lang Sen shows different types of wetlands that belong to an ecosystem of tidal freshwater swamps. This is an ecosystem with high potential in
biodiversity compared with other wetland ecosystems, the only ecosystem that combines both characteristics of marine and inland freshwater marshes. These characteristics are shown in different forms. 4) The riparian native forest belt, although partly destroyed, represents a rare habitat of Dong Thap Muoi. This ecosystem has four characteristics which are ecologically important to animals, such as: Predomination of wood plant communities: Timbers and shrubs provide not only shelter with favourable microclimate for refuge, seating and sleeping for numerous species of animals, but also shadows and humus for the aquatic fauna. Another important role of these plants is that they protect the river/ drain banks from erosion. High levels of surface water and soil humidity: The rivers and springs that run through riparian ecosystems supply water and food for many species such as waterbirds and fish-eating birds. The riparian habitat serves as a place for living and moving for several species of animals, a reproduction site for numerous reptile species and an important living environment for aquatic fauna. Particularly, it provides a reproduction site and food for many species of fish during flooding season. Diversity of living environment: The riparian ecosystems form a mosaic of diverse living environment (rarely inundated, permanent inundated, peat and clay etc.). Thus, the diversity of living environment plus the so-called “woodside” effect (hiÖu øng b×a rõng) have resulted in abundant wildlife of such habitat. A dispersing and migrating corridor: Such habitat provides a safe corridor for birds and mammals to move from one place to another.
Besides, the riparian ecosystem functions as a reservoir that keeps nutrients resulting from erosion. It also converts the nutrients that come with head-water into organic carbon sources needed for the downstream ecosystems. 5) The herbaceous vegetation in Lang Sen can partly purify the water by increasing the sedimentation process and absorbing nutrients and minerals from it. Besides, meadows provide an environment for refuge, feeding and reproduction for numerous species of animals. 6) Natural water environment (rivers/ springs) represent a type of habitat that does not exist in other fresh water wetlands of Cuu Long delta.
7) Thirty five plant species of Lang Sen have not been seen in Tram Chim and Xeo Quyt. Of them, some species of wood plants are rarely found in another places of Cuu Long delta. They include (dïi ®ôc ba gai) Hiptage tricantha, dalbergia (Dalbergia endatoides). (None of Lang Sen plant species is registered in the Red Listing of Vietnam).
The importance of the area to wildlife Thirteen animal species of Lang Sen are registered in the Red Book of Vietnam, of them 2 species have been at E level (Pseudibis gigantera, Pica pica), 5 species at V level (Python molurus, Python reticulatus, Ptyas mucosus, Cuora amboiensis, and Indotestudo elongata), 1 species at R level (Phalacrocorax carbo) and 5 species at T level (Naja naja, Bungarus fasciatus, Phodilus badius, Pelargropsis capensis and Lutra lutra).
Natural conditions Lang Sen lies in a monsoon tropical area. The average temperatures of the year, of the hottest month and the coolest month are 27.3, 29.4 and 25 oC, respectively. The annual rainfall is 1440 mm and frequent rains occur during JulyNovember. The landscape is relatively flat. The average height of 1.5-2 m above the sea level. The lowest area is the lowlands on both sides of Ca Rung drain and pools and ponds; the highest area represents sand hillocks scattered within the reserve. Lang Sen soil belongs to season-inundated alum earth group, including two main types as deep-stratum active alum earth (about 70%) and deep-stratum potential alum earth (about 20%). In Lang Sen, natural rivers and drains and artificial canals includes river Vam Co Tay, drains Ca Rung, Ca Sach and (ngän) Ca He, canals Ca No, 79 and Don Giong... They form a waterway system with higher density than in other parts of Dong Thap Muoi. Lang Sen is affected by tide during January-July (but the fresh water remains unaffected) and by flood during August-December.
The main habitat types 1) Running waters (thñy vùc n−íc ch¶y) In artificial canals, vegetation is sparse and poor in species composition. In natural rivers/ drains, the flora is more abundant, consisting of water lily (Nymphae sp), (rau trµng) Nymphoides nouchali, (nhØ c¸n vµng) Utricularia aurea, (r¸ng g¹t nai) Ceratopteris thalictroides, (måm më) Hymenachne aculigluma.
Running waters are the living environment of white fish group. This group includes the species of fish that live mostly in the main flows, large canals or rivers. For reproduction and growth, they usually migrate upstream or to season-flooded areas. Their representatives are carps (Cyprinidae), (c¸ linh) Henycorhynchus siamensis, horsefish (c¸ ngùa) Hampala sp, (c¸ mÌ vinh) Barbodes gonionotus, (c¸ he) Barbodes sp etc., and species of Asian catfish (Pangasiidae), c¸ nheo (Siluridae) and c¸ th¸c l¸c (Notopteridae). 2) The riparian native mixed forest belt This living environment is flooded for from three months up to the whole year, depending on the height of different places. This type of habitat has been seriously damaged and therefore it is rather rare type in Cuu Long delta, with an area of only about 15 - 20% compared to that before 1975. The average width of the forest belt is approx. 10 - 15m. This vegetation is complex and abundant in species and biotypes, of them the most popular are: - Timber group: Tr©m (Syzygium cinereum), Bón (Crateva nurvala), Ch−n bÇu ba l¸ (Combretum trifoliatum), C«m h¸o Èm (Elaeocarpus hygrophilus) and ChiÕc khÕ (Barringtonia acutangula); - Climbing plants: Bßng bßng leo (Lygodium scandens), V¸c (Cayratia trifoila) and M©y n−íc (Flagellaria indica); - Grass/ shrub: PhÌn ®en (Phyllanthus reticulates), Chãc gai (Lasia spinosa), §×nh lÞch (Hygrophyla salicifolia) and Cho¹i co (Cyclosorus sp). 3) Season-inundated meadows Such habitat is usually flooded about 5 - 6 months per year but easily gets burnt during dry season. The season-inundated meadows lie adjacent to the riparian forest belt. In the past, this had been the largest area in Lang Sen. Nowadays, only small stands less than 0.5 ha scatter among cajeput forests and rice fields. Larger stands represent the meadows restored after the rice fields was abandoned due to low productivity. The species composition of these meadows includes co-existing herbaceous species such as måm (Ischaemum sp), n¨ng ngät (Eleocharis dulcis), wild rice (Oryza rufipogon), u du (Cyperus sp) and rau m¸c (Monochoria sp). 4) Pools and ponds
This habitat includes low lands that are almost inundated for the whole year so the fire threat is insignificant. It has been subject to less damage than other habitat types. The flora includes aquatic species such as lotus
(Nelumbo nucifera), lily (Nymphaea sp) and nhØ c¸n vµng (Utricularia aurea) or flood-adapted plants like wild rice (Oryza rifipogon or rufipogon), sedge (l¸c hÕn) (Scirpus grossus), måm (Ischaemum sp) and dallis grass (cá ®¾ng t¸n) (Fuirena umbellata). During the dry season, pools and ponds serve as refuge place for reptile species such as r¾n ri c¸, r¾n b«ng sóng, turtle and crab and species of static water fish like eel, catfish and climbing perch . 5) Cajeput forest The cajeput forest represents an artificial habitat that has been fast developing since 1983. Such forest is planted where the rice production failed to give high economic effect.
The plant and animal species composition 1) Plants In Lang Sen, 156 species of wild plants that belong to 60 families have been identified to species name, of them 7 species of Pteridophyta, 88 species of Dicotyledonae and 57 species of Monocotyledonae. The most abundant families are Poaceae (with 24 species), Cyperaceae (19 species), Rubiaceae (6 species) and Papilionoideae (6 species). 2) Animals In Lang Sen, 128 species of Vertebrates (except Fish class) have been registered, of them 4 species of amphibian, 17 species of reptile, 101 species of birds and 6 species of mammalian. According to Buckton, Cu, Tu and Quynh (1999), during two expeditions in 1999, 61 species of birds has been registered. Total species number that has been registered so far using different methods came up to 122 species of birds and 149 species of vertebrates (except fish), of the 13 species present in the Red Book of Vietnam. Land use Pattern In principle, the People Committee of Vinh Hung district is managing this area, but its natural resources have been used by local communities. Therefore, a communal management approach would be suitable. The affected impacts The Lang Sen vegetation has been seriously destroyed during two periods, when the American spread chemical toxics in 1968 and 1969, and
since 1983 it has been subject to robust reclamation by local people for farming, building and canal construction. The degradation of native vegetation plus human activities such as hunting, use of insecticides, dwelling and transport etc., resulted in significant decrease in the abundance of species. According to local people, species of plants like yellow bamboo (mai vang), chanh rõng, ¸c ã, sanh, ba th−a and dung and species of birds like chµng bÌ, heron (cß èc), giang sen, giµ ®·y and bald-necked crane (sÕu cæ trôi) have been disappeared. Countermeasures that have been taken So far, effective management methods have not yet been established for this area. Future plans - To restore and preserve types of natural habitat (particularly riparian native forests), wildlife species and native landscape of Lang Sen wetland. This will bring significant contributions to the conservation of biodiversity and native landscape of lower Mekong inlands; - To conserve the historical remains from the wars of resistance against French and American; - To define borders between the reserve and buffer zone; - Timely forbid the destruction of native vegetation (it is urgent to issue regulations that stop people from destroying the native vegetation for cajeput and rice plantation) and hunting for wildlife animals, especially those species already registered in the Red Listing of Vietnam; - To forbid people’s relocation into the conservation area. - To limit the activities that are harmful for the environment, such as canal construction and use of insecticides etc. In particular, the government must build a comprehensive investment plan and suitable management structure for this area.
62. Tram Chim National Park
1. Formation history Tram Chim wetland is located in the deepest-flooded area of Mekong river delta and in the center of the Plain of Reeds (South of Vietnam). Since 1980s, when the Government launched Plain of Reeds reclaiming program to enlarge agricultural cultivation land, leaders of Dong Thap province especially “Uncle Muoi nhe”, who was president of the province People Committee at that time, have determined to maintain this wetland in order to conserve an unexploited image of Plain of Reeds forever which would help younger generations understand the natural, ecological, historical, cultural and social values of a place obtained through the heroic struggle and life sacrifice of current leaders’ generation. When Vietnamese and international scientists came here and discovered many precious bird species, especially red-head crane, Tram Chim became famous and then Tram Chim Crane Center was established and received the support of International Crane Foundation - ICF. Main task of this center is to protect redhead cranes and waterfowls. Since 1990, as a part of a research program on wetland in the lower section of Mekong river, and at the proposal of Vietnam, the Secretariat of International Mekong River has unanimously agreed to select Tram Chim as one of the priority research places together with other places in Laos and Thailand. Vietnam project group, presided by the Investigation & Planning Sub-Institute II, in combination with South Irrigation Project Sub-Institute (researching water), Agricultural Project Sub-Institute (researching land), Aquatic product Research Institute 2 (researching aquatic creatures) and South Hydrographic Weather Bureau (doing research on hydrographic), have conducted series of fundamental investigation and research. Collected data have been used to make Technical Economic Foundations which was submitted to the Government for recognizing Tram Chim as a national wetland natural preservation park in the Vietnam system of specific forest (Decision No.47/TTg dated 2/2/1994 issued by Prime Minister). During the above-mentioned Foundations implementation process, this project group, in co-ordination with ICF, still continues assisting Tram Chim Natural Preservation Park to supervise ecological, environmental and biodiversity factors. Until 1998, responding the guidance of Adviser Vo Van Kiet and Prime Minister, Dong Thap People Committee asked Investigation & Planning Sub-
Institute II and Wetland project group for supporting the building up of “ Investment project on protection, development and upgrade of Tram Chim wetland natural preservation park in the period of 1999 - 2003”. This project was approved by Prime Minister in the Decision No.253/1998/QD-TTg dated December 29,1998. As a result, Tram Chim National Park, the first national park in Mekong river delta as well as the first wetland national park in Vietnam, was founded.
Natural characteristics 2.1 Location: Tram Chim National Park is located in Tam Nong district, Dong Thap province (in the administrative area of 5 communes: Tan Cong Sinh, Phu Duc, Phu Tho, Phu Thanh, Phu Hiep and Tram Chim town). Geographical co-ordinate: from 10037’N to 10046’ N from 105028’ E to 105037’ E
2.2 Topographical and geomorphological characteristics Tram Chim area is located in the ancient river-bed, belonging to newly deposited field, low and close-flooded field. Remaining marks of the ancient riverbed are current ditches and low, natural depression. The ancient river-bed, as time passing by, is consolidated gradually and has formed a system of small, short, interlacing and tortuous irrigation ditches flowing freely without a given direction but generally into Tien river from northeast to southwest. As locating in a low deposition field but near Tien river and on the ancient river-bed, Tram Chim terrain is not totally flat and uniform. Tram Chim’s A.1 Part is surrounded by canals: Phu Thanh canal in the west, Phu Hiep canal in the east, Dong Tien canal in the south and An Binh canal in the north. Among these canals, Dong Tien is the biggest one and connects Tien river with Vam Co Tay river. Major task of this canal is to direct fresh water from Tien river into interior field, neutralize sour and drain flood water from Tien river to Vam Co Tay river. All these canals have wide walls with the height from 3.2 3.5 m. The regulation of hydrographic system of the A.1 Part to make it appropriate with natural hydrographic rules is carried out through dam system. The operating process of these dams is designed based on the research and assessment result over many years on hydrographic rules in Plain of Reeds and Mekong river delta, as well as research on ecological rules of creatures and other natural factors.
Other parts of Tram Chim National Park are open system, which have no surrounding dams and are totally controlled by natural hydrographic rules of Mekong river. 2.3 Climate characteristics Tram Chim National Park is under tropical monsoon climate with high temperature level around the year, high rainfall which varies strongly among seasons. Following is major data: • Annual average temperature: 27.00C • Absolute highest temperature:
37.0 - 38.00C
• Absolute lowest temperature:
never under 15.00C
• Annual average humidity:
82 - 83%
• Absolute highest humidity:
Approximate 100%
• Absolute lowest humidity:
35 - 40%
• Vapor level on the open surface can reach
1,500 - 1,600 mm
• Due to the various humidity in land, the factual vapor level only reach approximately the possible vapor level in flooding season (from August to November) • Annual average number of sunny hours:
2,600 hours
• Daily average number of sunny hours in dry season:
8.5 - 9.0 hours
• Daily average number of sunny hours in rainy season:
5.0 - 5.5 hours
• 2 main wind direction: West - South monsoon in rainy season and East - north monsoon in dry season. • Average wind speed:
1.4m/s
• Highest possible wind speed:
20 m/s
• Annual average rainfall:
1,400 mm
• Monthly average rainfall in rainy season:
150 mm
• Highest rainfall (in September and October):
>250 mm
2.4 Soil characteristics: - There are following types of soil in Tram Chim National Park: - Typical gray soil in ancient alluvium:
Located mainly in the north and areas with rather high mound terrain. Gray land is light, spongy and have poor nutrient. At the foot of mounds, the terrain is flat and rather low, gray land is alkalized. This is the poorest nutrient land in Mekong river delta. Alkaline soil: 2 types Potential alkaline soil: Located in low and water-stagnant area. Alkaline soil is fastidious, heavy, with high clay rate, strongly gleyed and contains accumulated organic substances. Active alkaline soil: This type of soil usually locates in medium terrain or is able to quickly drain water areas. This is the major alkaline soil located in the area between Phu Thanh canal and Phu Hiep canal. This type of soil has high clay rate (>50%), rather high humidity, high organic content and heavy movable component. All the layers of this soil are sour (pH
