In recent years, together with the socio-economic growth, the improper use of natural recourses has led to the degradation and loss of mangrove forest ecosystems...
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| Locals in Ninh Ich Commune, Ninh Hoa Town, join mangrove restoration effort. |
In recent years, together with the socio-economic growth, the improper use of natural recourses has led to the degradation and loss of mangrove forest ecosystems. The Department of Agriculture & Rural Development is forming a project on mangrove restoration and development 2011-2015.
Accordingly, in this period, 600ha of mangroves will be grown in Khanh Hoa Province, bringing the total area of concentrated mangrove forest to 625ha. Before 1990, there used to be nearly 2500 ha of mangrove forest along the coast mainly in Ninh Hoa, Van Ninh (some 1,100ha), Cam Ranh (1,000ha), Cam Lam (100ha) and Nha Trang (300 ha).
However, since 1990-2000, most of mangrove forests have been destroyed. Mangroves support unique ecosystems, hosting several species of fish and crustaceans.
The project on mangrove restoration and development 2011-2015 is dedicated to reversing the degradation and loss of mangrove forest ecosystems. Its goal is to promote indigenous people to sustainably manage their coastal environment.
Much community effort has been made to protect mangrove plantations as more and more local residents have realized the value of mangrove forests. Mangrove forests are reviving in Tan Dao (Ninh Ich, Ninh Hoa District) and Tuan Le (Van Ninh District).
More actions are required to protect and develop mangrove forests. More education and propaganda are necessary to raise pubic awareness of mangrove forest protection and encouragement of all the community's participation in environmental matters.
Destructive fishing practices, for example with the use of explosives or poisons, need to be severely punished. Local residents have realized how necessary mangroves really are to the overall environment and have adopted mangrove restoration and conservation programs.
Conserving and restoring mangrove forests forms part of a comprehensive climate change deal. Mangrove forests need to be protected as they provide a huge range of environmental benefits.
N.T
